Understanding Hate Crimes

Hate crimes and hate incidents happen daily in NSW but studies show they are extremely underreported.
To feel comfortable reporting hate crimes, it’s important to understand what they are.

Hate is prejudice or bias towards people because of their identity or perceived difference.
When a crime is motivated by hate, it becomes a hate crime.
When there is no crime committed, but an action is still motivated by hate, prejudice or bias, it is known as a hate incident.
Both hate crimes and hate incidents are taken very seriously by the police.

We encourage everyone to report their experience as this helps to reduce future occurrences.

What to expect when you report

When you call the police, you can tell them where you are and what you experienced or witnessed.
When you report to the police, they will request your details. You can choose not to provide these details at the time of reporting however, this will likely affect how police can proceed with an investigation.
Your report helps to paint a larger picture of what is happening in local areas and shows patterns of behaviour that we can address.

What to do if You Witness Hate

Call Triple Zero (000) in an Emergency
Ask the person if they are ok and listen to what they have to say
Report in person at any Police station
Report online at Crimestoppers.com.au
or 1800 333 000

Social Media and Online Hate

Keep evidence by taking screen shots of abuse including
usernames, URLs and any other relevant information

Report abuse directly to the platform

Report online at
crimestoppers.com.au
or 1800 333 000

Or report online abuse to the
eSafety Commissioner at
www.esafety.gov.au

Source: NSW Police / NSW Government