ACON: Important Update: Safety when meeting online / via dating apps
Michael Barnett OAM
25-02-2026 - 01:16 PMImportant Update: Safety when meeting online / via dating apps
We are aware of and deeply concerned about media reports about violent attacks on gay and bisexual men via social media apps.
These are extremely serious crimes that reflect rising hate in our communities. There has been a consistent level of these attacks over the last two years influenced by material circulating online.
ACON is working closely with NSW Police to ensure local communities are informed about risks to their safety and to ensure that reports are dealt with seriously and respectfully. We are confident in the ability of the NSW Police respond to hate crimes.
While the vast majority of online interactions are positive and safe, ACON recommends people be aware and exercise caution when meeting strangers they’ve connected with online.
Effective safety strategies include:
- share your location with a friend
- do a video chat first
- meet in a public place first
- trust your instincts – leave if something feels wrong, if you feel unsafe or aren’t into it.
The NSW Police Hate Crime Unit is working closely with ACON to inform local communities about risk to their safety and that reports are responded to seriously and respectfully.
- If you have experienced violence, and you feel safe to do so, consider contacting your local police or Gender Diverse LGBTQIA+ Liaison Officer (GLLO).
- You can also anonymously report at Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
- Please remember that if you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Counselling support is available through:
QLife: Free and anonymous phone and online chat support for LGBTQ+ people, 3pm-9pm, 7 days a week on 1800 184 527
For crisis support, contact Lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 13 11 14.