Community Safety Tips

The New South Wales Police Force treats all reports of hate motivated crime seriously and encourages all members of the LGBTIQ+ and broader community to report any incidents.

Hate crimes are motived by prejudice on the basis of race, sexual orientation, religion and often involve violence.

During periods of high visibility of the LGBTIQ+ communities, there is the potential for an increased risk of abuse and even violence.

Be sure to report any anti-social and violent behaviours to the police immediately or as soon as you possibly can.

Harm to the victim and the community

Hate crimes not only harm an individual but their community and society as a whole. It does not matter how big or small a crime may be perceived; it has the capability to significantly alter someone’s life.

Homophobic or transphobic hate crimes can be one of the most traumatic experiences in a person’s life, as they are often victimised for characteristics which are intrinsic and unchangeable, and the repercussions of the crime can be felt throughout the entire community.

If you see something, say something – make sure you report the incident to police.

Reporting the Crime

LGBTIQ+ hate crimes are under reported. It is not uncommon for a victim of this type of crime to not report the matter to police and there are a variety of reasons for this, including:

  • Fear of reprisals,
  • Mistrust of police,
  • Fear of being "outed" as a result of participating in the court process, and/or
  • The perception that the incident is not serious enough to report to police.

To assist all officers to understand the challenges and expectations of LGBTIQ+ communities the NSWPF has a network of LGBTIQ+ Liaison Officers across the state.  LGBTIQ+ Liaison Officers are also active in their local communities to ensure open communication and exchange of information for the benefit of the local community.  Over time these relationships should lead to improved confidence by LGBTIQ+ communities in the police. This in turn should lead to improved rates of reporting of crime and violence.

To assist all officers to understand the challenges and expectations of LGBTIQ+ communities the NSWPF has a network of LGBTIQ+ Liaison Officers across the state.  LGBTIQ+ Liaison Officers are also active in their local communities to ensure open communication and exchange of information for the benefit of the local community.  Over time these relationships should lead to improved confidence by LGBTIQ+ communities in the police. This in turn should lead to improved rates of reporting of crime and violence.

Sexual Assault Reporting Option

If you have been a victim of an assault – physical, sexual, verbal – there are services available. Police officers can come to you and assess any urgent safety and medical needs. In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000).

Please be aware you can report your sexual assault to police even if you do not want an investigation started. It simply provides a record of what happened, which can be used if you change your mind later.

See more options and support here: https://portal.police.nsw.gov.au/adultsexualassault

In NSW, we have affirmative consent laws. This means people in NSW are required to give and obtain consent before they engage in a sexual act.

Sexual consent is when people freely and voluntarily agree to engage in sexual activity, including kissing, touching and oral sex. It’s about making sure everyone is comfortable with what’s happening and freely choosing to say yes.

Find out more here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/family-and-relationships/make-no-doubt

Further resources are available here: