The Australian Institute of Criminology this week published its (AIC) Homicide in Australia 2024–25 report provides an overview of national homicide trends and emerging patterns in offending and victimisation.
In the year from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025 there were 279 homicides across Australia
Knives and other sharp instruments remained the most common homicide weapons, accounting for 34 per cent of all deaths – a trend consistent since 1989–90. Men continued to comprise the majority of both homicide offenders (85per cent) and victims (80per cent). Half of all homicides occurred in residential settings, most often in the victim’s home.
Domestic homicides, where the victim was the intimate partner or relative of the primary offender, comprised more than one‑third of all cases. Intimate partner violence resulted in 46 deaths, most involving female victims. This represents a decrease of 16 compared with the previous reporting period and the third-lowest recorded rate.
First Nations people were killed at six times the national rate, with two‑thirds of these homicides occurring within family or intimate relationships. Most First Nations victims were women killed by an intimate partner (76 per cent), and almost nine in ten primary homicide victims were killed by a First Nations offender.
AIC Deputy Director Dr Rick Brown emphasised the importance of the report in informing public policy. “The National Homicide Monitoring Program gives a long-term picture of serious violence across the country. The annual homicide in Australia report assists policymakers by outlining data trends and informing decisions related to community safety,” Dr Brown said.
For more information or to view the full report, visit the AIC website.
If you or someone you know is a victim of violent crime – or if you witness behaviour connected to violent or criminal activity – report it immediately. In an emergency, call 000. For non‑urgent matters, contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444. To provide anonymous information, submit a report online via Crime Stoppers or call 1800 333 000.
