The data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research shows the number of incidents in Dubbo across a range of crimes are higher than our neighbours at Orange and Bathurst.

In the 12 months until June 2017 there were 317 recorded incidents of domestic violence related assault in Dubbo, almost double the average number of incidents across NSW.

The figure in Orange was much lower at 259 incidents, while Bathurst was even less at 184.

While the number of domestic violence related assaults in some of the smaller towns were less than Dubbo, when compared to the rate per 100,000 people Gilgandra was almost three times the NSW average, Coonamble was 2.6 times higher, and Parkes and Wellington were both double.

In Walgett the number of incidents recorded during the 12 months was five times higher than NSW. The town was also four times the average for break and enters to non-dwellings and malicious damage to property.

Dubbo’s break and enter dwelling figures were 3.6 times greater than the rest of NSW. There were 569 incidents during the year. In Orange there were 375 while Bathurst had 314.

Dubbo’s motor vehicle theft and steal from motor vehicle were also higher than Bathurst and Orange.

There were 191 vehicles stolen in Dubbo – 2.6 times the NSW average –  and 653 incidents of items stolen from cars – three times the average.

In comparison, 137 cars were stolen in Orange during the same time period and 75 cars in Bathurst. Bathurst again had the best statistics of the three when it came to theft from motor vehicle. The city recorded 317 incidents, whereas Orange had 337.

It was only on the number of robberies that Dubbo didn’t top the list. While there were 19 robberies in Dubbo during the year, including three with a firearm and 10 with another kind of weapon, there were 22 in Orange. Again Bathurst had less at 16.

Dubbo MP and NSW Police Minister Troy Grant said the statistics showed a welcome decline in property-related offences in the Orana Local Area Command.

“As a community, we owe our police an enormous debt of gratitude for the work they do. Their commitment and dedication to keeping our community safe is unwavering,” Mr Grant said.

“I would like to thank the Dubbo community for doing their bit by reporting crime, working closely with our local police officers, and remaining vigilant.”

Mr Grant said he was determined to see crime rates continue to decline.