The Albanese Labor Government today launches the first phase of the National Hate Crimes and Incidents Database. The database has been developed by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) in partnership with the Department of Home Affairs and police agencies across the country.
In January 2025, the Prime Minister convened a meeting of National Cabinet to address the shocking rise of antisemitic hate crimes. At that meeting, all Leaders committed to a National Database to track hate motivated crimes and other antisemitic incidents.
Last week's horrific attack on the Jewish community at Bondi underscores the importance of this type of information sharing which will help governments coordinate and shape their responses.
This first stage of the database launched today provides national information on individuals charged with offences under hate crimes legislation in all Australian jurisdictions. It is an important step toward combating hate motivated offending across Australia by strengthening our ability to monitor, analyse and respond to hate crimes.
Hate crimes are driven by prejudice against individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex status, disability, nationality, ethnic origin, or political opinion.
These crimes are an attack on the values that define Australia.
The National Hate Crimes and Incidents Database is now live on the AIC website and will expand as further phases of the initiative are developed.
Quotes attributable to Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke MP
"The appalling attack on the Jewish community at Bondi Beach must never be allowed to happen again.
"Every Australian has the right to be safe and feel safe, no matter your heritage, what you believe or who you love.
"I urge every Australian: if you witness or experience a hate crime, report it. Accurate reporting is essential to ensure these crimes are investigated and captured in the database, to enable evidence-based action.
"In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000). If it is not urgent, contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444."
