In the sprawling city of Townsville, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, certain pockets have garnered less-than-flattering attention. As with any urban area, the worst suburbs in Townsville have become a topic of discussion, especially when safety and quality of life are at the forefront of people’s concerns.
While Townsville boasts many beautiful and thriving areas, including the best suburb in Townsville, some suburbs have been flagged due to their higher crime rates and associated challenges.
But it’s crucial to approach this topic with nuance. For every area grappling with crime, there are countless rental properties in Townsville that promise a safe and comfortable living experience. Rather than painting an entire suburb with a broad brush based on statistics alone, a deep dive into the underlying issues and the strengths of these communities is essential.
This article aims to shed light on these suburbs, offering an unbiased view of the challenges they face, backed by data, while also highlighting the resilient spirit of their residents.
Townsville City, QLD
When we talk about the “worst suburbs in Townsville”, Townsville City invariably appears on the list. This central business district, though alive with bars and clubs, also suffers from an elevated crime rate.
Drug offenses in particular paint a bleak picture, with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) documenting a crime rate of 90,696 incidents per 100,000 population in the year ending June 2022. This marked a 4% hike from the previous year.
However, it’s essential to remember that many factors influence crime rates, and generalizing might overlook the city’s many positive attributes.
Garbutt, QLD
Moving north from the heart of Townsville, we find Garbutt. With its industrial regions, it’s no surprise that the suburb grapples with crime.
In terms of raw data, the QPS recorded a crime rate of 54,628 incidents per 100,000 population by June 2022, showing a 6% reduction year on year.
While this decrease is a silver lining, the existing figures still reflect the suburb’s struggles. However, it’s also worth noting the resilience and optimism found within the Garbutt community.
Vincent, QLD
Vincent, located to the city’s west, unfortunately bears the hallmark of many challenges often linked to low-income suburbs.
With a crime rate of 23,508 incidents per 100,000 population, as reported by QPS for the year ending June 2022, the figures represent a 7% drop from the year prior.
A decreasing trend is always a welcome sign, yet the persistent high rate reveals the broader systemic issues that Vincent contends with, from unemployment to limited opportunities.
Hermit Park, QLD
To the city’s south, Hermit Park stands as a testament to the challenges of redevelopment. Historically industrial, its transformation hasn’t fully erased the high crime rates.
QPS data for the year ending June 2022 pinpoints a rate of 18,054 incidents per 100,000 population, a troubling 17% surge from the previous year.
However, with redevelopment comes opportunity, and the suburb holds promise for future improvement.
Rasmussen, QLD
Rasmussen, lying to Townsville’s east, mirrors Vincent in many ways. Classified as a low-income suburb, it has witnessed a concerning 15% escalation in its crime rate, with QPS figures for June 2022 registering 19,695 incidents per 100,000 population.
Amidst its challenges, Rasmussen’s core strength is its community. The close-knit nature of the residents provides a unique resilience.
Many local initiatives and programs are in place, aiming to uplift the suburb’s youth and provide constructive outlets for energy and creativity. Local leaders and organizations work tirelessly to improve the living conditions and to counteract the negative perceptions.
The Flip Side: Affordable Living Opportunities
If there is a silver lining to the challenges these suburbs face, it might be in the form of more affordable rental properties, including some cheap houses for rent, that offer residents a chance to be part of the community’s transformation.
Local leaders and organizations are ardently working to create a better future for these areas, reminding us that behind every statistic lies a community filled with potential.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while these suburbs in Townsville may have earned the label of “worst” based on certain parameters, it’s imperative to remember that every place has its good and bad.
Suburbs are more than just crime statistics. To get a comprehensive view of crime data, visiting the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) and aucrimerate.com is advisable.
Moreover, factors such as employment opportunities, proximity to loved ones, and amenities play crucial roles in determining the liveability of any given suburb. Always visit in person, interact with locals, and make an informed choice.
More on Worst Suburbs in Townsville
What is the cheapest suburb in Townsville?
Rasmussen is the cheapest suburb in Townsville
Is Townsville a cheap place to live?
Yes, Townsville is considered a relatively cheap place to live compared to other major Australian cities. The median house price in Townsville is around \$400,000, which is significantly lower than the median house price in Sydney or Melbourne.
Which is better to live Cairns or Townsville?
This is a subjective question and the answer will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. Cairns is a larger city with more amenities, but it is also more expensive.
Townsville is a smaller city with a more relaxed atmosphere. Ultimately, the best place to live is the one that best suits you.
What is the average rent in Townsville?
The average rent in Townsville for a two-bedroom apartment is around \$350 per week. The average rent for a three-bedroom house is around \$450 per week.
What are the safest areas in Townsville?
The safest areas in Townsville are:
- Castle Hill
- Kirwan
- Douglas
- Pimlico
- North Ward
Please note that these are just some of the suburbs in Townsville and the crime rates and safety levels may vary depending on the specific area. It is important to do your own research before making a decision about where to live.
