Explore Australia’s safest cities for 2025—compare crime rates, lifestyle, and secure suburbs to find your ideal home.

Introduction

Safety is a top priority for anyone considering a move to a new city. In 2025, Australia continues to rank among the world’s safest countries, but not all cities offer the same peace of mind. This complete guide reveals the safest cities to live in Australia in 2025, with tips for choosing secure neighborhoods, understanding city crime rates, and maximizing your family’s security.

Australia’s Safest Cities in 2025: Where Security Meets Lifestyle

Australia’s major urban centers have made significant strides in public safety. According to recent safety index data and crime statistics, Canberra leads as the nation’s safest city, followed closely by Adelaide, Hobart, and Perth.

Canberra
Australia’s capital tops the safety rankings with a crime index of 26.8 out of 100 and a safety index above 70. Its well-planned design, strong community spirit, and low rates of violent and property crime contribute to its status as the safest city nationwide. Residents enjoy walking and cycling paths, well-lit neighborhoods, and a high police presence, making it ideal for families and students alike.

Adelaide
Consistently ranking high for safety, Adelaide boasts a safety index of 67.2 and low property crime. Affordable living, vibrant community events, and peaceful, leafy suburbs like Mawson Lakes and Glenelg appeal to new residents. Year on year, Adelaide’s crime rates continue to fall, and the city earns praise for its active neighborhood watch programs and family-friendly precincts.

Hobart
Tasmania’s capital, Hobart, garners a safety index above 66, reflecting its small-town feel and low rates of violent crime. The close-knit community and calm lifestyle, combined with strong emergency services, make Hobart a haven for retirees and families seeking tranquility.

Perth
Western Australia’s largest city features in the top five for urban safety. A diverse population, proactive public safety initiatives, and low rates of drug/alcohol crime outside city hotspots make Perth an attractive destination. Premium safe suburbs include Subiaco, Cottesloe, and South Perth.

Other Safe Cities
The Gold Coast, Newcastle, Geelong, Darwin, Wollongong, and Ballarat complete the list of Australia’s top ten safest cities to live in for 2025. These cities combine liveability, a sense of local community, and diligent policing, offering secure options for various budgets and lifestyles.

Crime Rates, Secure Precincts, and Practical Safety Tips

City Crime Statistics at a Glance 2025

  • Canberra: Safety index 71.8 | Low violent and property crime
  • Adelaide: Safety index 67.2 | Declining crime, peaceful outer suburbs
  • Hobart: Safety index 66.5 | Very low violent crime
  • Perth: Safety index 58.1 | Safe suburbs, moderate crime in the CBD
  • Gold Coast: Safety index 54.0 | Daytime safe, higher risk at night
  • Newcastle, Geelong, Darwin, Wollongong, Ballarat: All score 51–54 for safety, with notable secure suburbs and active community watch.

While larger cities like Sydney and Melbourne rank highly for livability, they have moderate crime rates relative to smaller capitals. In these cities, crime is typically higher in central or inner-city areas and notably lower in leafy, affluent, or family-oriented suburbs (e.g., Lane Cove and Balmain in Sydney, Glen Waverley and Camberwell in Melbourne).

What Makes a City Safe?

  • Low rates of violent and property crime
  • Effective law enforcement and visible policing
  • Well-lit, walkable neighborhoods
  • Active community engagement
  • Rapid emergency response services

Tips for Safe Urban Living

  • Choose suburbs with strong neighborhood watch programs and high community participation.
  • Use city crime statistics and safety indexes to assess housing options.
  • Explore local council resources for insights into safe neighborhoods.
  • Prioritize areas with good lighting, secure public transport, and family-friendly parks.

(Optional) Safety from Natural Disasters: Where to Seek Extra Security

In addition to crime statistics, natural disaster risk is another crucial factor when considering the safest Australian cities. Canberra, Yass (NSW), and Hobart are among the safest urban and regional centers, with lower bushfire, flood, and cyclone exposure than many coastal or northern zones6. Tasmania’s isolation and Canberra’s inland location further enhance their appeal for risk-averse residents.

Conclusion

Australia’s safest cities in 2025—led by Canberra, Adelaide, and Hobart—combine low crime, friendly neighborhoods, and peace of mind. Whether you seek a vibrant urban setting or a laid-back regional community, choosing a city with a strong safety record helps ensure a secure, thriving lifestyle for you and your loved ones. Always research specific suburbs and consult city crime stats when making your move.