General News
16 December, 2025
Atherton crime on the rise
CRIME in Atherton has risen by 30% in the past year compared to the previous 12 months, with vehicle theft and house break-ins contributing to the marked increase.
In Mareeba, it’s a different story, with crime decreasing slightly over the year (by 9%), with drops in almost every offence category. In total, the 4880 postcode recorded 1908 offences compared to 2051 last year. Atherton recorded 1359 offences during the 12-month period, up from 957 in 2024.
Statistics from the Queensland Police online crime map are gathered by The Express every year in the first week of December to enable comparisons to previous years.
The latest figures show that car theft in Atherton nearly doubled this year, with 63 vehicles stolen compared to 32 in the previous year.
Unlawful entry into properties was also significantly higher, with 222 recorded, up 85 on 2024 figures.
Good order offences which take in public nuisance offences, public urination, consuming liquor in a public place, and possession of knives in public places, was also much higher at 181 compared to 127 the previous 12 months.
While Mareeba records more offences than its neighbouring town, 2025 has seen decreases in good order offences (241 compared to 319 in 2024), assaults (306, compared with 344 in 2024), and other property damage (206 compared with 238 in 2024).
Unlawful entry into properties, which has been a serious issue in Mareeba for many years, has dropped this year to 290, from 311 recorded in the previous year.
Unlawful use of motor vehicles was also less this year, with 83 stolen, compared to 87 last year.
Assaults in Mareeba were also on the decrease, with 306 recorded compared to 344 in 2024.
The online crime map also shows that January was the worst month for crime in Mareeba, while July, August and September were bad months for Atherton.
The Express asked Queensland Police why the Atherton crime figures had risen by 30% in the past 12 months, but they failed to provide any information as to why crime had increased in the town.
“Police across the Tablelands will continue to do everything in their power to prevent, deter and disrupt offending, ensuring community safety remains a top priority,” a spokesperson said.
“If anyone sees anything suspicious, they are encouraged to contact police immediately.”
The crime map can be found at www.police.qld.gov.au/maps-and-statistics.
