Report hate-related behaviour if you believe someone has been targeted because of who they are, including their race, religion, disability, sexuality, gender identity or another personal characteristic.
You do not need to know whether the behaviour is a hate crime, hate incident, or serious vilification before making a report.
The importance of reporting hate-related behaviour
Victoria Police understands that reporting hate-motivated behaviour can feel difficult. This is true in any circumstance, but particularly if you have had previous experiences that make you hesitant to contact police or if you are unsure if you can make a report.
We encourage anyone affected by hate-motivated behaviour to report it so we can assess the circumstances, provide support where available, and work to prevent further harm.
How to report hate-related behaviour
You can report hate-related behaviour if it has happened to you, you witnessed it, or someone has told you about it.
We will assess the information and determine the most appropriate response.
If there is an immediate threat
If there is an immediate threat to life or safety, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for police.
If there is no immediate danger
If there is an immediate threat to safety, always call Triple Zero (000).
To report hate-related behaviour when there is no immediate threat:
- call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444
- contact your local police station
- report online through Victoria Police, where available
- provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers Victoria or call 1800 333 000.
If the behaviour involves graffiti, vandalism or property damage
If it is safe to do so, include the following information in your report:
- photos of the graffiti, symbol, or damage
- the location
- when you found it
- any information about people involved.
Report online hate
If the behaviour occurred online:
- report it to Victoria Police if you believe a crime may have occurred
- keep screenshots, usernames, messages, and links where possible
- consider reporting the content to the platform
- contact the eSafety Commissioner if harmful content remains online or requires further action.
Information to include in your report
You do not need to have every detail when make a report. Share what you can.
Helpful information to add to your report includes:
- what happened
- when and where it happened
- who was involved
- descriptions of people, vehicles or locations
- words, gestures, symbols or messages used
- photos, screenshots or videos
- witness information
- whether anyone remains at risk.
The more information you can provide, the easier it may be for police to assess and investigate the matter.
What happens after you make a report
When Victoria Police receives a report, we assess what happened and whether hate or prejudice may have motivated the behaviour.
Depending on the circumstances, we may:
- review the information provided
- contact you if we need more information
- speak with witnesses
- investigate potential offences
- provide safety advice
- connect you with support services
- refer the matter to another organisation where appropriate.
Where appropriate, police may contact you to request additional information, discuss next steps or provide updates.
The information provided will depend on the circumstances of the matter and any legal or operational requirements that apply.
Not every report will result in charges. However, every report helps us understand risks, identify patterns, and improve community safety.
Discrimination, vilification, or breaches of human rights
If you believe a hate motivated crime has been committed, report it to Victoria Police.
Some behaviour may not be a crime, but may still be discrimination, vilification, or a breach of human rights.
You can also make a complaint to:
- Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC), or,
- Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC).
Support and communication assistance
Making a report to police can feel overwhelming. Victoria Police is committed to treating all victims and witnesses with dignity, respect, and sensitivity.
Support is available if you need help communicating with police, understanding the process or accessing services.
Community Liaison Officers
Community Liaison Officers can provide support throughout the reporting process and help connect you with appropriate services. They can also help people who may feel uncertain about engaging with police to understand available reporting and support options.
They do not investigate reports, but they can help you access support and communicate with police.
Learn more about our Community Liaison Officers.
Communication assistance
Communication support is available if you:
- are Deaf or hard of hearing
- have a hearing, speech or communication difficulty
- need an interpreter
- need accessibility assistance.
Learn more about our communication assistance options and available support.
How to recognise hate crimes and incidents and find support
What is a hate crime, hate incident, or serious vilification
Learn what hate crime, hate incidents, and serious vilification are, who they affect, and why reporting matters.
How to report signs of possible terrorism
State security and counter-terrorism
What you can do to prepare for emergency or terrorist situations, our counter terrorism strategies, and how to report suspicious behaviour or armed attack.
Updated