Crime and Pollution in Sydney

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Sydney are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 960 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 Sydney.

Crime Data in Sydney

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Sydney, Australia is experiencing a predominantly low level of crime concern among its residents. The data indicates that instances of crime are on a downward trend, with the majority of Sydney’s population feeling generally safe.

Safety perceptions are high, particularly during daylight, with significantly less concern for personal safety at night.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes such as theft and break-ins are perceived as having a low impact on the community. This has led to a decreased public fear surrounding these issues.
  • Drug-Related IssuesDrug-related issues are not seen as problematic in Sydney, with residents reporting very minimal concern over these types of crimes.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crimes are similarly perceived to be at low levels. Concerns around muggings, assaults, and other violent acts are minimal, contributing to a strong overall sense of safety among the population.
  • Public SafetySydney residents widely report feeling secure, with high confidence in their safety both during the day and at night, though nights are slightly less safe.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsWhile there is some acknowledgment that crime could be on the rise, it remains a minor concern, overshadowed by the overall positive trends in safety and crime reduction.
  • Specific FearsThere are very limited fears regarding specific types of crime, although some minor attention is given to theft and break-ins, reflecting a generally composed stance towards personal security.
Worldwide
Australia

Crime Rankings

Sydney ranks 11th on the Crime rankings in Australia.
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: Oct, 2025
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Sydney

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Sydney enjoys an excellent standard of air quality in 2024, with minimal pollution concerns being reported. The city has effectively managed to keep pollution levels low.

Air quality is particularly praised, with residents expressing high satisfaction, reflecting effective policies on pollution control.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)PM2.5 levels are well within safe limits, underscoring Sydney's effective management of fine particulate matter, contributing to overall health and wellness.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)While PM10 levels are slightly higher, they remain controlled and without significant impact on public health, further supporting the city's clean air initiatives.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is relatively controlled in Sydney, though certain busy areas continue to experience typical urban noise challenges.

Garbage disposal receives positive feedback, with many residents satisfied with waste management and city cleanliness.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionResidents generally express satisfaction with waste disposal services, contributing to high cleanliness standards across Sydney neighborhoods.
  • Noise and Light PollutionAlthough noise remains a concern in bustling areas, it does not significantly detract from Sydney's livability.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Sydney’s commitment to preserving green spaces is evident, providing ample parks and recreational areas to its residents, which are highly valued.

Water quality in Sydney is considered exceptional, with residents enjoying safe and accessible drinking water, an important factor in the city's high livability ratings.

  • Green and Parks QualityResidents highly appreciate Sydney's parks and green spaces, which serve as critical recreational and environmental assets.
  • Drinking Water QualitySydney's drinking water is consistently rated highly, providing reliability and safety that residents cherish.
Worldwide
Australia

Pollution Rankings

Sydney ranks 2nd on the Pollution rankings in Australia.
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: Oct, 2025