Lifestyle
Australia — Living: Safety
Australia is generally considered a safe country. The 2026 Global Peace Index ranks Australia 20th out of 163 countries and territories worldwide (up four places from the prior year), and it is separately ranked among the top safest countries for travellers. As in any country, crime is unevenly distributed, with higher-crime pockets in and around major cities, so newcomers should still take normal urban-safety precautions.
VerifiedGlobal Peace Index 2026 (Institute for Economics and Peace) and related aggregated safety-ranking coverageLast reviewed: 2026-08-31
Key facts
- Australia ranked 20th of 163 countries/territories in the 2026 Global Peace Index, a four-place improvement on the previous year.
- The Global Peace Index measures more than crime: it combines ongoing conflict, societal safety/security, and militarisation indicators.
- Australia is separately ranked among the top safest countries in the world for travellers in 2026 rankings.
- As with any large country, crime is not evenly distributed — certain areas within major cities (including Sydney and Melbourne) have higher crime rates than the national average, so newcomers should research specific neighbourhoods.
Steps
- Understanding Local Crime Rates — Familiarize yourself with local crime rates and areas to avoid. Consult local authorities and police websites for information on crime hotspots and community safety initiatives.
- Taking Precautions in Urban Areas — Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and take necessary precautions such as locking doors and windows, and avoiding walking alone in dimly lit areas.
Common mistakes
- Assuming all areas of Australia are safe, when in fact some areas have higher crime rates