‘It was just pure hatred’: a new report reveals intensifying attacks against LGBTQIA+ people

A new report has unveiled a rise in violent attacks against LGBTQIA+ individuals facilitated through dating apps. In Victoria, between January 2024 and October 2025, police recorded 95 such incidents. The assaults, which included physical violence, robbery, extortion, and sharing the attacks online, were carried out primarily by young men in outer suburbs of Melbourne. The inquiry found that while this type of hate crime is not new, it is intensifying, necessitating a comprehensive response to protect LGBTQIA+ individuals.

The victims, including victim-survivor David Brown, described their experiences as driven by pure hatred, with perpetrators seemingly unfazed by the law or their actions. The report emphasizes that while under-reported, these attacks are facilitated by the anonymity and ease of digital platforms. The inquiry recommends various measures, including the establishment of a board to investigate historical violence and stigma against LGBTQIA+ communities in Victoria, the exploration of redress pathways, and reforms to historical homosexual convictions schemes.

The findings and recommendations hold significance beyond Victoria, reflecting a global issue as digital platforms have an international reach. The committee also calls for stricter governance of digital platforms, improved training for law enforcement personnel, and the introduction of aggravated hate-based offences in Victoria.

Ultimately, the inquiry aims to raise awareness of homophobia's impact and provide a voice for victims, while offering potential responses to mitigate technology-facilitated violence against LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities.