The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Cairns are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 200 user contributions.

This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Cairns.

Crime Data in Cairns

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Cairns faces a high level of crime concerns with significant public worry about both property and violent crimes. Although the city offers some safety during daylight, fears significantly increase after dark.

The perception of rising crime rates is amplified by particular worries about theft, drugs, and potential personal attacks, which resonate strongly among residents.

Some notable concerns include:

  • Property Crimes - Property crimes remain a predominant worry for Cairns' residents, with theft, home break-ins, and car-related crimes causing substantial anxiety. This issue is seen as one of the primary challenges in maintaining a secure environment.
  • Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related problems are perceived as a significant threat in Cairns. The public's concern about the growing presence of drug activity is notable, impacting community safety and wellbeing.
  • Violent Crimes - While less prominent than property crimes, violent crimes still contribute to residents' fears. Concerns about physical attacks and robberies are present, affecting how safe people feel walking in different parts of the city.
  • Public Safety - During the day, Cairns' residents feel reasonably safe, enjoying the city's serene surroundings. However, this sense of security diminishes greatly at night, with many feeling vulnerable to various types of crime after dark.

Crime Trends and Safety

  • Rising Crime Concerns - A major concern in Cairns is the perceived rise in crime rates, particularly concerning property and drug-related offenses. This perception of increasing crime contributes to a lingering sense of insecurity among the population.
  • Specific Fears - Specific fears are focused primarily around theft and drug activity, with additional concerns regarding personal safety and being victimized based on race or ethnicity, which highlights the need for inclusive safety measures.

Summary of Crime in Cairns

Cairns continues to tackle its crime challenges, with property and drug offenses at the forefront of public concern. Despite the high perception of crime, there are ongoing efforts to enhance safety and community trust.

Worldwide
Australia

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for Australia is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

Highest to LowestUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Cairns

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Cairns boasts commendable air quality with minimal pollution levels, thanks to its natural landscapes and proactive environmental management. Residents generally enjoy clean air and excellent atmospheric conditions.

While air quality is mostly positive, ongoing vigilance is needed to maintain these standards in the face of potential urban expansion.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - PM2.5 levels in Cairns are essentially non-existent, reflecting the city's excellent air quality status and minimizing health risks associated with air pollution.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - Similarly, PM10 readings are at a low level, contributing to Cairns’ reputation for clean air, which remains a significant environmental asset.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution emerges as a notable concern in Cairns, where urban activities may disrupt the otherwise tranquil setting. This is a key area needing attention for community satisfaction.

The city however excels in waste management, with residents expressing high satisfaction with garbage disposal practices and the cleanliness of their environment.

  • Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Cairns exhibits excellent garbage disposal and waste management, with residents highly satisfied with the cleanliness standards, fostering a more pleasant living experience.
  • Noise and Light Pollution - Noise and light pollution present challenges, particularly in busier areas, affecting overall quality of life. Addressing these issues could enhance city living further.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

The city's green spaces are highly praised, offering residents recreational and environmental benefits. These areas are vital to Cairns’ appeal and quality of life.

Cairns’ water quality stands out as exceptional, with residents enjoying highly accessible and pure drinking water, enhancing public health and satisfaction.

  • Green and Parks Quality - Cairns' parks and green spaces are of outstanding quality, cherished by residents for leisure and relaxation while also supporting biodiversity and environmental health.
  • Drinking Water Quality - Residents of Cairns benefit from top-tier drinking water quality, known for its cleanliness and reliability, which is a cornerstone of the city’s environmental strengths.
Worldwide
Australia

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for Australia is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

Hightest to LowestUpdated: Dec, 2024
Cairns Crime and Pollution

"Key Takeaways"

Cairns faces significant challenges related to property crimes and drug-related offenses, but the city’s day-to-day safety perception varies with time and location.

The city excels in environmental quality, boasting superior air and water quality. However, noise pollution remains a concern, needing targeted interventions.

Sustained efforts in crime prevention and environmental management are crucial for enhancing the living conditions in Cairns. The city's strong environmental policies provide a valuable foundation for future improvement.