Gay students extorted with threat of being ‘outed’ in home countries, Victorian hate crime inquiry hears

International students from countries with strict anti-homosexuality laws are falling victim to a disturbing pattern of extortion and assault in Victoria. These individuals are reportedly lured into meetings through gay dating apps, only to be attacked and threatened with exposure of their sexual orientation to their families back home.

The revelations came to light during a Victorian inquiry into hate crimes, where an LGBTQ+ support service presented evidence of these targeted attacks. The service highlighted that the victims are primarily men from nations where homosexuality is illegal, making them particularly vulnerable to such threats.

Since June 2024, police have recorded 95 attacks specifically targeting gay individuals. This statistic underscores the severity and scale of the problem, indicating a coordinated effort by perpetrators to exploit the vulnerabilities of LGBTQ+ individuals who may be living abroad.

The inquiry aims to address the rise in hate crimes and understand the specific challenges faced by marginalized communities. The testimony sheds light on the complex intersection of homophobia, international student issues, and criminal activity, prompting calls for enhanced protective measures and support systems.