Identifying the Safest Suburbs to Buy a House in Australia is no easy feat. Choose poorly, and you could face high crime rates, limited access to essential services, or a lack of community support. After conducting thorough research and scoring each suburbs based on ten key safety criteria, this guide offers trustworthy insights to help you make an informed decision in 2025.
Straight away Waverley, New South Wales, stands out not just for its safety but also for its vibrant weekly markets and artistic installations that foster a sense of community and cultural engagement. And also Joondalup, Western Australia, on the other hand, offers cutting-edge Smart Cities initiatives like real-time CCTV monitoring and public Wi-Fi, ensuring safety is seamlessly integrated into modern living.
Continue reading below, to see the entire list of the Safest Suburbs across Australia for 2025.
10. Loganholme, Queensland (Score: 80/100)
Loganholme offers strong community engagement and well-maintained public safety measures, though it faces challenges with limited emergency services access.
- Low Crime Rates: 8/10
- Strong Police Presence: 8/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 7/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 6/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 9/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 8/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 8/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Loganholme shines in community spirit, with regular community events fostering trust and connection among residents. Schools in the area rank highly for safety, with secure campuses and proactive child protection policies. Local parks are equipped with CCTV and well-maintained playgrounds, enhancing family safety.
However, Loganholme has limited proximity to emergency services, with the nearest hospital over 20 minutes away. Some areas also lack adequate street lighting, and traffic congestion during peak hours can cause delays.
Overall, Loganholme provides a safe and community-focused environment, though improvements in emergency services access and lighting would elevate its appeal.
9. Glenelg, South Australia (Score: 84/100)
Glenelg combines excellent pedestrian infrastructure and school safety but faces moderate crime rates and inconsistent police visibility.
- Low Crime Rates: 7/10
- Strong Police Presence: 7/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 8/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 8/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 8/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Glenelg is a vibrant seaside suburb with an emphasis on safety for families and professionals. The local schools are highly rated, featuring secure premises and anti-bullying programs. Community events, such as festivals and market days, create a welcoming atmosphere. Streets are well-lit, and public transport options make it easy to get around safely.
On the downside, crime rates, while moderate, could be improved, and police visibility is inconsistent at best. Some residents have reported minor delays in emergency response times in Glenelg.
In summary, Glenelg offers a mix of lifestyle and safety, making it a great choice for those prioritizing community and education.
8. Caroline Springs, Victoria (Score: 86/100)
Caroline Springs excels in providing strong community connections and reliable emergency services while facing minor traffic safety concerns.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 8/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 8/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 7/10
- School Safety Standards: 9/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Caroline Springs thrives on its close-knit community, with regular local events and a family-friendly atmosphere. Caroline Springs proximity to well-staffed hospitals and emergency services is a key advantage. Schools are inclusive and maintain strong safety standards. Public CCTV systems provide added security in high-traffic areas.
However, the Caroline Springs faces occasional traffic safety issues, particularly near school zones. Some areas lack sufficient pedestrian crossings, and minor vandalism incidents have been reported.
With its robust community engagement and excellent emergency services, Caroline Springs remains a top choice for families seeking safety and connection.
7. Joondalup, Western Australia (Score: 87/100)
Joondalup stands out with exceptional emergency services and well-lit streets, though traffic congestion and moderate crime rates pose challenges.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 10/10
- Active Community Engagement: 8/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 7/10
- School Safety Standards: 9/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 8/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Joondalup is a thriving suburb known for its well-equipped hospitals and fire services, ensuring residents’ safety during emergencies. Streets are brightly lit, and public transport hubs are equipped with CCTV. Schools in Joondalup are among the safest, with strong community ties and high satisfaction ratings.
Despite Joondalup’s strengths, traffic congestion around major intersections remains a problem. Crime rates, while moderate, occasionally include property theft. Limited CCTV coverage in some residential areas could be improved.
In conclusion, Joondalup’s strong emergency services and community focus make it a standout choice for families and professionals seeking a secure place to call home.
6. Mawson Lakes, South Australia (Score: 88/100)
Mawson Lakes offers a perfect blend of modern infrastructure, strong safety measures, and a community-oriented environment, with minor challenges in traffic safety.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 8/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 7/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 8/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 10/10
Mawson Lakes boasts a modern urban layout with well-designed public spaces and infrastructure. Local schools are highly regarded for their safety and academic excellence, supported by secure campuses and active safety programs. Community engagement is a cornerstone of Mawson Lakes, with residents participating in regular clean-up days and neighbourhood events. Emergency services, including a nearby police station and hospital, are highly accessible, ensuring a quick response during crises.
However, traffic safety in certain areas across Mawson Lakes, particularly near busy intersections, has been noted as a concern by residents. Some streets would benefit from additional lighting to enhance nighttime safety. Minor property theft incidents in Mawson Lakes, while infrequent, have been reported in public areas.
Mawson Lakes provides an exceptional combination of safety and modern amenities, making it an appealing choice for families and professionals. Addressing traffic and lighting issues could further bolster its standing.
5. Berwick, Victoria (Score: 90/100)
Berwick is a picturesque suburb offering excellent school safety, active community engagement, and a strong police presence, with minimal drawbacks.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 8/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 10/10
Berwick thrives on its strong sense of community, with regular family events and active neighbourhood watch programs enhancing safety. Schools in the area are renowned for their robust safety protocols, including secure access points and extensive child protection measures. The local police station in Berwick is proactive in community engagement, maintaining a visible and approachable presence. Public CCTV systems add an additional layer of security in high-traffic zones.
While Berwick scores highly in most categories, occasional traffic congestion near schools and commercial centres is a minor drawback. Some residents have also noted the need for more pedestrian-friendly pathways in certain areas.
Overall, Berwick is a safe and family-friendly suburb with minimal flaws, ideal for those seeking a secure and engaging community.
4. Paddington, Queensland (Score: 91/100)
Paddington excels in safety, vibrant community engagement, and accessibility to emergency services, with few areas requiring improvement.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 10/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Paddington is a leafy inner-city suburb known for its vibrant community and family-oriented atmosphere. Schools are a highlight in Paddington, offering secure facilities and innovative safety programs. Paddington benefits from excellent proximity to emergency services, with a hospital and police station both within a short distance. Local festivals and street markets encourage community interaction and contribute to a strong sense of belonging.
Paddington’s only notable drawback is occasional congestion on narrow streets during peak times. Additionally, while the suburb is well-lit overall, a few smaller laneways could benefit from improved lighting.
Paddington stands out as a secure, engaging, and highly accessible suburb, making it a top choice for families and professionals in 2025.
3. Balwyn, Victoria (Score: 92/100)
Balwyn boasts outstanding safety measures, exceptional schools, and a strong sense of community, with minimal areas for improvement.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 10/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Balwyn is celebrated for its high-quality schools, which consistently rank among the best in Melbourne, offering secure environments and a strong focus on child safety. Balwyn also features a well-connected network of parks and public spaces, all equipped with CCTV to ensure safety. Community events, such as fairs and cultural activities, foster a sense of belonging and engagement among residents. Its proximity to multiple emergency services adds to its appeal, providing peace of mind for families.
While Balwyn is nearly flawless in its safety measures, it does face occasional congestion during school drop-off and pick-up times. A few areas would benefit from additional pedestrian crossings to enhance safety further.
Overall, Balwyn stands as a premier choice for families and professionals seeking an exceptional and safe environment.
2. Mosman, New South Wales (Score: 94/100)
Mosman excels in safety, school standards, and a strong sense of community, making it a top-tier suburb for families and professionals alike.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 10/10
- Active Community Engagement: 10/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 10/10
Mosman is known for its beautiful harbour views, but its safety and family-friendly amenities truly set it apart. Schools in Mosman are top-notch, offering secure campuses and robust anti-bullying programs. Mosman’s parks and recreational areas are meticulously maintained, complete with surveillance systems for added security. Active community groups and local events strengthen the social fabric, making Mosman a welcoming and inclusive place to live. Emergency services are easily accessible, ensuring prompt responses when needed.
The only drawback in Mosman, is the higher cost of living, which may not suit all budgets. Additionally, traffic can be heavy during peak tourist seasons due to its scenic location.
In summary, Mosman is a secure and family-friendly suburb that offers a perfect balance of safety, community, and accessibility.
1. Waverley, New South Wales (Score: 97/100)
Waverley tops the list with its outstanding safety measures, vibrant community, and excellent infrastructure, making it the safest suburb in Australia for 2025.
- Low Crime Rates: 10/10
- Strong Police Presence: 10/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 10/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 10/10
- Active Community Engagement: 10/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 10/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Waverley is the pinnacle of suburban safety, offering an unparalleled combination of low crime rates, excellent infrastructure, and a vibrant community. Waverley’s schools are among the safest and most highly regarded in the country, with secure premises and innovative safety programs. Streets are well-lit and pedestrian-friendly, ensuring safety for families and professionals alike. The suburb also boasts numerous community initiatives, such as regular clean-up drives and cultural events, fostering a strong sense of unity among residents. Emergency services are highly responsive, with stations strategically located to serve the area effectively.
While nearly perfect, Waverley’s housing market is competitive, making affordability a potential challenge for some buyers. Additionally, parking availability in certain areas can be limited.
In conclusion, Waverley sets the gold standard for safe living in Australia, offering an exceptional environment for families and young professionals to thrive.
How I Scored Each Suburb
Low Crime Rates
Low Crime Rates are the foundation of a safe suburb. This metric evaluates the frequency of reported crimes such as theft, vandalism, and violent offenses.
- A suburb scoring 1 on this criterion would have a high and persistent crime rate, such as Caboolture, Queensland, which has faced challenges with theft and property crime in recent years.
- A suburb scoring 10, such as St Ives, New South Wales, experiences minimal reported crimes, thanks to its proactive community watch programs and robust policing.
Strong Police Presence
A visible, active and Strong Police Presence, fosters a sense of security. This criterion considers the availability of local police stations and community policing initiatives.
- A suburb scoring 1, such as Alice Springs, Northern Territory, struggles with inadequate policing resources, contributing to higher crime rates.
- Templestowe, Victoria, scores 10 due to its highly visible and well-staffed police force, which actively engages with residents.
Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas
Proper Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas, is vital for reducing crime and enhancing safety.
- A suburb scoring 1, like Dandenong, Victoria, has been criticized for dimly lit streets in certain areas, creating safety concerns.
- The Gap, Queensland, scores 10, with its well-lit streets and public spaces that make residents feel secure at all hours.
Proximity to Emergency Services
Quick access and therefore Proximity to Emergency Services, can make a significant difference in safety.
- A suburb scoring 1, such as Kurri Kurri, New South Wales, suffers from limited emergency service availability.
- Box Hill, Victoria, scores 10 due to its close proximity to multiple hospitals, fire stations, and police services.
Active Community Engagement
Active Community Engagement, strengthens the social fabric of a suburb, enhancing overall safety.
- A suburb scoring 1, like Mount Druitt, New South Wales, struggles with community involvement and cohesion.
- Stirling, Western Australia, scores 10, hosting frequent community events and fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents.
Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure
Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure / friendly pathways are essential for reducing accidents and promoting safety.
- A suburb scoring 1, such as Palmerston, Northern Territory, has been noted for its lack of pedestrian crossings and high-speed traffic zones.
- Ashburton, Victoria, scores 10, offering excellent pedestrian pathways, traffic calming measures, and well-maintained infrastructure.
School Safety Standards
School Safety Standards play a critical role in a community’s safety, as they are integral to the development and well-being of children and families. This criterion evaluates the presence of secure campuses, anti-bullying initiatives, and adherence to child protection policies.
- A suburb scoring 1, such as Moe, Victoria, struggles with outdated security measures, limited fencing, and inadequate supervision.
- Toorak, Victoria, scores 10, with state-of-the-art security, CCTV, and robust student safety programs.
Presence of CCTV and Security Measures
The presence of CCTV and robust security measures deters crime and provides residents with peace of mind.
- A suburb scoring 1, like Katherine, Northern Territory, has minimal public surveillance, leading to frequent petty crime.
- Subiaco, Western Australia, scores 10 with extensive CCTV coverage, ensuring public areas are secure and monitored effectively.
Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics
Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics, are critical for maintaining a safe and welcoming community.
- A suburb scoring 1, such as Mount Isa, Queensland, faces high turnover and socio-economic challenges.
- Manly, New South Wales, scores 10 due to its stable population and inclusive, well-integrated community.
Reputation and Resident Feedback
The overall Reputation and Resident Feedback of a suburb is very subjective and provides residential feedback and insights into its safety and liveability.
- A suburb scoring 1, like Broadmeadows, Victoria, struggles with negative reviews due to safety concerns and poor infrastructure.
- Claremont, Western Australia, scores 10 for its glowing reputation, with residents praising its safety, community, and amenities.
My Research: A Blend of Data and Local Insights
To rank Australia’s safest suburbs, I combined extensive data analysis with on-the-ground exploration and local insights. This blend of methods ensured a comprehensive understanding of each suburb’s unique attributes, offering a balanced and reliable assessment and ranking.
I began my research by consulting publicly available crime statistics from sources such as the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS’s), other state based publications and local council reports. These datasets provided a factual basis for evaluating crime rates and trends. Additionally, I reviewed infrastructure and community resources through local government websites and urban planning documents to assess factors such as emergency service proximity and public amenities.
Beyond the data, I visited many of these suburbs personally, engaging with residents and experiencing the lifestyle firsthand. For instance, I went down through Paddington’s Rosalie Village, enjoyed seeing the bustling atmosphere of cafés like Milton Coffee Roasters and other artisan shops. In Berwick, I dined at Primary @ Pioneers Park, a local favourite, while observing the family-friendly parks and well-maintained streets that contribute to its reputation.
I also relied on social media, online reports and reviews to understand resident feedback. Suburbs like Glenelg, with its charming Moseley Square and beachfront cafés, were frequently praised in community forums for their safety and vibrancy. Meanwhile, I visited local supermarkets and shopping centers in Caroline Springs, speaking directly with vendors and residents to gauge the suburb’s community spirit.
Finally, I consulted online specific research articles from trusted sources like realestate.com.au, CoreLogic, Domain.com.au and Urban Developer. These provided additional context on housing trends, demographic shifts, and infrastructure improvements that impact suburban safety.
Conclusion
Combining this wealth of information allowed me to rank the suburbs with confidence and depth, ensuring the recommendations reflect both statistical rigour and lived experience. After evaluating lots of different suburbs across Australia using ten rigorous safety criteria, these are my Top 10 Safest Suburbs recommendations for 2025:
- Waverley, New South Wales (Score: 97/100)
- Mosman, New South Wales (Score: 94/100)
- Balwyn, Victoria (Score: 92/100)
- Paddington, Queensland (Score: 91/100)
- Berwick, Victoria (Score: 90/100)
- Mawson Lakes, South Australia (Score: 88/100)
- Joondalup, Western Australia (Score: 87/100)
- Caroline Springs, Victoria (Score: 86/100)
- Glenelg, South Australia (Score: 84/100)
- Loganholme, Queensland (Score: 80/100)
Waverley, New South Wales leads the list with its vibrant community and exceptional safety standards, followed closely by Mosman, New South Wales, known for its harmonious environment and excellent schools. Balwyn, Victoria shines with its educational facilities and low crime rates, while Paddington, Queensland combines historical charm with a modern, secure lifestyle. Berwick, Victoria is ideal for families, offering outstanding school safety and community spirit. Rounding out the list is Loganholme, Queensland, offering strong community ties and a family-friendly environment.
These safe suburbs stand out for their low crime rates, strong community engagement, excellent schools, and well-maintained infrastructure. They are perfect for families, professionals, and individuals looking for a secure and vibrant place to call home. If you’re ready to take the next step in finding your dream property, consider working with a residential professional buyer’s agent. They can provide expert guidance to help you navigate the competitive real estate market and secure a home that meets your needs and lifestyle.
Ideas for Keeping Yourself Safe in a New Suburb
- Once you’ve moved to your new home, maintaining safety in your chosen suburb is a shared responsibility.
- Get involved in local community initiatives, such as neighbourhood watch programs, to foster a sense of connection and vigilance among residents.
- Secure your property with reliable locks, outdoor lighting, and CCTV cameras to deter potential intruders.
- Engage with your neighbours to build trust and create a supportive network that looks out for one another.