Asian Australian's Experiences and Reporting of Racism During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Between 13 November 2020 and 11 February 2021, an online national survey of 2,003 Asian Australians measured the type and frequency of their experiences of racism during the COVID-19 context. The survey also aimed to understand the reporting behaviours of targets and witnesses of racism and identify barriers to reporting racism. The survey found that 40 per cent of participants experienced racism during the COVID-19 pandemic, most commonly in public settings such as in shops, on the street, public spaces, and work. A similar 39 per cent of participants witnessed racism. Despite these high rates, Asian Australians overwhelmingly did not report incidents of racism. Lack of trust in statutory agencies and their response to racism reports was a frequent barrier experienced. Feelings of hopelessness, shame or disempowerment and lack of knowledge of reporting tools and human rights were other barriers to reporting. Lifting the confidence of people to report racism remains an urgent task. These findings provide direction for developing targeted anti-racism strategies, reporting tools and support services for targets and witnesses of racism.

Automated summary

This survey examined the experiences of racism among Asian Australians during the COVID-19 pandemic and explored their reporting behaviors and barriers. The findings showed that 40% of participants experienced racism, but the majority did not report the incidents. Barriers to reporting included lack of trust in statutory agencies, feelings of hopelessness, shame or disempowerment, and lack of knowledge about reporting tools and human rights. Enhancing people's confidence to report racism is an urgent task.