Wednesday 25 March 2026

Crime risk assessments are often referred to as Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) or Safer by Design reports are an established part of the development assessment process in New South Wales (NSW). While not required for every development, consent authorities must consider whether a proposal is likely to increase crime risk and whether that risk can be reduced through good design. 

Common Triggers for a Crime Risk Assessment 

A crime risk assessment is most commonly required where a development includes one or more of the following triggers: 

High-risk land uses, such as licensed premises, late-night venues, service stations, gaming facilities, or uses involving cash handling. These developments are more likely to attract antisocial behaviour, theft, or violence, particularly outside standard business hours. 

Large-scale or high-density residential development, including residential flat buildings, shop-top housing, student accommodation, and seniors housing. Shared spaces, basement car parks, and unclear public–private boundaries can create safety risks if not carefully designed. 

Public or shared car parking and transport-related infrastructure, such as multi-level car parks, commuter parking, transport interchanges, and park-and-ride facilities, which require careful consideration of surveillance, lighting, and access control. 

Late-night or extended hours of operation, including 24-hour trading or uses operating beyond midnight, especially when located near residential areas. 

Sites in high-crime or high-activity locations, such as town centres, transport hubs, nightlife precincts, or areas with elevated local crime rates. 

Publicly accessible spaces, including plazas, through-site links, arcades, and mixed-use developments with active ground floors. 

In some cases, a crime risk assessment may also be requested during assessment if council officers or NSW Police identify unresolved safety concerns or if public submissions raise issues about crime and personal safety. 

Why It Matters 

Identifying crime risk early allows CPTED principles to be integrated into the design from the outset, reducing delays, avoiding costly redesigns, and improving approval outcomes. More importantly, it helps deliver safer, more functional places that work well for occupants, visitors, and the surrounding community. 

Understanding these triggers is a key step in navigating the NSW planning process and delivering developments that are safe, compliant, and resilient over the long term.