Is Sydney Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

As Australia’s most populous, oldest and largest city, Sydney is a magnet for tourists that come from all over the world.

It is especially famous for its beaches, stunningly beautiful harbor with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

Harbour Bridge is a link between the city and the Lower North Shore and while walking over the bridge you can enjoy the outstanding view of Sydney.

Other Sydney’s extraordinary sights are the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Parliament and Government Houses and the number of museums.

Australia is considered one of the safest countries in the world, so tourists should feel free while experiencing all the beauties of Sydney.

Warnings & Dangers in Sydney

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Even though there are not many recorded data on criminal acts against tourists in Sydney, all the visitors should be aware of the potential dangers that go along with the huge cities. Gang violence, criminal acts in alcoholic state and muggings are some of the issues that happen everywhere. Nevertheless, with a rating of 80%, Sydney is certainly one of the safest cities in the world.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

As well as all the other spheres in this city, transports, and taxis are believed to be safe in Sydney. Besides these facts, tourists need to be cautious and remain on those bus or train stations that are well-lit and where there are a lot of people. Licensed taxis are always the best solution.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

According to the recorded data, pickpocket risks are on a minimal level. The chances of being pickpocketed in this city are very little. However, being stolen from is normal in any place around the world, so paying attention to your belongings would be enough to protect yourself while in Sydney.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

There can be some extreme weather conditions on occasion in Sydney, and too much sunbathing can be very dangerous for your skin.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

When mugging and kidnapping risks are concerned, there is very little danger of being captured or assaulted. However, there are parts of the city that should be avoided, like the western suburbs which can be a bit risky at night time.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Sydney, as well as the whole of Australia, has no reason to worry about terrorist threats and tourists can be peaceful in terms of terrorist attacks happening in crowded places.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

What you need to bear in mind once you go out to Sydney’s bars and clubs is to carefully watch over your drinks since there were some recordings of drink spiking or overcharging by the bartenders. Also, people who look peculiarly and offer you help, either with the orientation or luggage, should be avoided.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women can travel to Sydney without worrying about the possible dangers. However, their purses should not be left unattended, and precautionary measures should always be taken. They should not walk alone at night in those areas that are considered unsafe.

So... How Safe Is Sydney Really?

Sydney is like any other major city.

Although the safety data shows a little amount of risk for tourists, it is not crime-free.

Visitors can enjoy the safe streets of Sydney, no matter what time of day it is, and the authorities are committed to making the city as safe as possible.

Police guarantees safety in the city center and crowded places in front of the monuments and landmarks, particularly at night.

The northern parts, as well as the tourist areas, are relatively safe, but like any big city, there is also a dark side.

To feel safe in Sydney, tourists should not carry great amounts of money, should not stay late at night in empty areas and should be conscious of the people around them.

George Street and the Belmore Park can be a bit dangerous and need to be avoided at night, due to some drug addicts and menacing people.

Since Sydney is a great place to travel, tourists should get familiar with the safety situation before they go.

However, as long as they are watchful and attentive, they will feel safe in Sydney.

How Does Sydney Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All visitors to Australia need a visa. It can be electronic or not. The people from New Zealand are the only nationality that does not need it. The site www.doyouneedvisa.com offers people instructions on whether they need a visa depending on their nationality and what kind of visa is required.

Currency

The Australian Dollar, the official currency in Australia, is frequently called the "Aussie dollar" by foreign-exchange traders. Australia is a very expensive country for tourists and many of them decide to stay in the City South because this area has cheaper accommodation than the city center.

Weather

Sydney has a humid subtropical climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Summer lasts from December to February and during this period the prices are higher and the accommodation is difficult to find. Tourists are advised to check weather conditions before they come to Sydney.

Airports

The main airport is Sydney Airport, well known as Kingsford Smith Airport. Other airports can also be used when coming to Australia, like Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance, which is supposed to cover medical expenses, lost luggage, and other issues while traveling, is always suggested to the tourists before they start their journeys.

Sydney Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Australia - Safety by City