Australia's global crime ranking varies by source and metric, but it generally sits in the middle to lower-middle range globally for overall crime, often ranking around 47th to 69th out of many countries, while being considered a safe country for travel due to strong gun control and political stability, though it experiences higher rates of certain crimes like sexual assault and vehicle theft compared to some European nations. High crime rates per capita are sometimes noted in specific regions like the Northern Territory and certain cities like Alice Springs, contrasting with lower rates in states like New South Wales (NSW).
Australia is ranked third highest of the fourteen countries in terms of overall victimisation, behind the other two non-European countries, the USA and Canada. In assaults involving force, sexual incidents, burglary and motor vehicle thefts, Australia ranked highest of all countries surveyed.
Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, and Switzerland consistently rank as the top 5 safest countries globally, according to recent Global Peace Index (GPI) reports for 2025, followed by Singapore, Portugal, Denmark, Slovenia, and Finland, known for low crime, stability, and strong social systems, though rankings can vary slightly by source.
New global safety findings highlight Australia's strong healthcare system, low crime levels, political stability, and high quality of life. From thriving cities to secure regional communities, the country continues to be recognised as one of the world's most reliable and secure places to live, work, and travel.
Australia has been a perennial top ten inhabitant of the safest countries ratings since it launched seven years ago – and in 2026, we're holding strong in second place.
Iceland is consistently ranked as the #1 safest country in the world by the Global Peace Index (GPI), a position it has held for over a decade due to extremely low crime, no standing army, high social cohesion, and minimal conflict, though some other reports might place Switzerland or the Netherlands first based on different survey criteria.
Homicide rate: Australia's homicide rate hovers around 0.8 per 100,000 people, compared to the U.S. rate of approximately 6 per 100,000. Property crime: Both countries experience property crime, but Australia's rates are generally lower, and violent property crimes (like armed burglary) are less common.
Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is considered the safest city. According to Numbeo, its safety index is 73.6, which is higher than other cities in Australia. It also ranked as the 49th safest city in global rankings.
Crime rate by country 2025: 10 countries with the highest crime...
According to Credit Suisse's Global Wealth Report, the average wealth of Australian households was $628,000 per adult in 2020, the fourth highest in the world behind Switzerland, the United States and Hong Kong (North America as shown on the graph refers to the region, as does Asia-Pacific and Europe).
Iceland, New Zealand, and Ireland again lead with the world's lowest crime rates in 2025. Countries like Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, and Singapore follow closely, powered by strong laws and social trust. Know more below about what makes these nations so safe.
Denmark. Denmark is at the top of the list of the top ten countries for quality of life. This small Nordic country consistently ranks highly in international surveys on factors like happiness, income equality, safety, and access to education.
Level 4: Do Not Travel
Rockhampton. Rockhampton is the most dangerous city in Australia. According to the reports, it has a crime index of 67.2, which is one of the major contributors to the country's higher rate. It has a crime rate of 132 per 1000 people, with most of the cases for theft, burglary, and assault.
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Australia crime rate per 100K population for 2021 was 0.74, a 13.52% decline from 2020. Australia crime rate per 100K population for 2020 was. Australia crime rate per 100K population for 2019 was 0.89, a 0.29% increase from 2018. Australia crime rate per 100K population for 2018 was 0.88, a 4.6% increase from 2017.
Brisbane has just been named as one of the friendliest cities in the world and we're the only Australian city to be listed in the top twenty. We've always known this about Brisbane but now the world is starting to discover it too.
Australia has been named the second-safest country in the world by one of the world's biggest travel insurers – pipped for top spot by the Netherlands. It is the same spot Australia had on the 2025 Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection list, although that was topped by Iceland.
The capital Vienna also regularly tops list as one of the most liveable places in the world, in part due to its low crime rates. But crime does happen in the country. Get daily updates from Austria straight to your inbox.
Don't litter as it's illegal in Australia. Especially don't throw a cigarette but from your car window as many bushfires are caused by this. Don't ride a bike without a helmet. Don't go in the sun without sunscreen; the sun rays in Australia can be adangerous for your skin.
Dangerous wildlife. Various dangerous animals go hand in hand with Australia's diverse landscapes and warm climate. Although you might never come across them, the country is home to numerous venomous spiders, snakes and marine creatures.
It is estimated that of all Australian adults: 11.3% (2.2 million) had experienced violence from a partner (current or previous cohabiting) 5.9% (1.1 million) had experienced violence from a boyfriend, girlfriend or date. 7.0% (1.4 million) had experienced violence from another family member (ABS 2023c).