When is hate a crime? The University of Sydney unveils hatecrime.com.au website via BrandUnity

The University of Sydney in collaboration with the Australian Hate Crime Network has created a new website and resources — ‘hatecrime.com.au’ –  to help raise awareness about the problems of hate crime and hate incidents in NSW, developed by BrandUnity.

This website has been made possible through the support of the City of Sydney. Financial support has also been provided by the Sydney Law School, University of Sydney.

The website has been designed, in consultation with communities most vulnerable to hate in Australia, and the government agencies and community organisations that seek to assist them. The University of Sydney and the Australian Hate Crime Network acknowledges the many people and organisations who have generously given their time and expertise in the development of these resources.

Says Professor Gail Mason, Professor of Criminology, the University of Sydney: “Our vision is to build awareness, promote support, guide action and advocacy. We hope that the website and related resources will provide a ‘one stop shop’ for information about the kind of support that is available if you or someone you know experiences hateful conduct, as well as the law and options for responding to hate.”

The new site boasts a variety of resources available in 6 languages including Arabic, Chinese – traditional and simplified, English, Hindi and Vietnamese, as well as a community tool kit for education and capacity building.

The website highlights recent data on incidents of hate crime in Australia. (hatecrime.com.au/research)

31% of Chinese Australians report being called offensive names in the last 12 months and 18% report being physically threatened or attacked because of their Chinese heritage. (Kassam & Hsu 2021)

Alongside an awareness campaign and resources, the site hosts a support directory and an overview of what action you can take if you have experienced hate crime. (hatecrime.com.au/action)

In a statement, the NSW Police Force affirm: “The NSW Police Force encourage hate crime to be reported by victims or witnesses, no matter how trivial it may seem. Police need to know what is happening to understand the problem and protect the NSW community. If you are not comfortable going to your local police station, you can bring a support person with you or make a report by calling the Police Assistance Line on 131 444. You can learn more about hate crimes, where to get support and how to report.” (https://hatecrime.com.au/nsw–police/).

In a statement of support from the Race Discrimination Commissioner, Chin Tan says: “If you are the target of racism the Australian Human Rights Commission encourages you to take action. On www.hatecrime.com.au you will find information about hate crime and the law, where to find support, how to take action and how to make a report. Making a complaint to an organisation like the Commission about racial hatred, discrimination, or vilification is one option available to you.”

To find out more visit hatecrime.com.au