Violence and homophobia are a main cause of stress and worry for guys who are attracted to other guys, and can occur in many ways: verbal; assault; murder; stalking - by foot, car, or at home. These are just some of them. Most (but not all) places where violence occurs against gays in particular, are in the inner city areas.

Below is a list of those (recorded) places where attacks have occurred:

• Street (52%)
• Beats - parks, toilets & pools 28.5% (parks 24%)
• Bar/Club (5%)
• Parks (not beats) and sports fields (4.5%)
• Car Park (3%)
• Shop/Restaurant (3%)
• Railway station and public transport (3%)
• Home (1.5%)

The most likely time of attack is after dark - particularly between 9pm and 3am.

The average ages of attackers is: 16 -25 for 83% of attacks

52% of survivors were travelling alone, and are attacked by 3-10 attackers (youngest attacker aged 10 years).

What do you do if confronted/attacked?

The following is a list of the recommended things to do:

• Run - don't attempt to fight back
• Always carry a whistle - to be blown when threatened
• If you can't get away - curl into foetal position & blow whistle if possible.
• If attacked - report your attack to the police - even if you don't want to take it any further. (This allows them to know where the 'bad' areas are located)
  • seek medical advice, at a hospital (in case you need to claim Victims Compensation in the future)
  • If questioned and unhappy when reporting, ask for the Senior Sergeant or the Gay & Lesbian Liaison Officer.
• Try to remember nicknames, tattoos etc
• Seek some form of counselling after attack

 Some suggestions on how to protect yourself are:     

• Do some Self Defence or Self Protection Courses
• Never travel alone - always with groups, etc (safety in numbers)
• If you hear a whistle being blown while out (not on Mardi Gras Parade) check it out - take time to find out who is blowing the whistle. They may need your assistance. It helps having witnesses when reporting the incident.

It might be an idea to write down the contact details of your local police station; the nearest Gay & Lesbian Police Officer; and the Closest Anti violence Project

Below is an excerpt from a brochure on how to combat homophobia.

Taken from the Anti-Violence Project brochure: "Tips to counter anti-lesbian and homophobic violence".

Violence can happen. Just be aware.

STAY ALERT - Awareness is your best defence.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS - Remove yourself from a situation if you think something is wrong. Cross the street, change direction, walk closer to traffic, grab a cab or run to a safe place

PROJECT CONFIDENCE - Walk as if you know where you're going.

WALK WITH OTHERS - Especially if you're upset, intoxicated or out of it.

KEEP IN THE CLEAR - Walk near the curb, avoid doorways, side streets, parked cars and parks after dark.

BE AWARE - Check out who is infront and behind you. Be aware of who gets on and off public transport with you.

HAVE MONEY WITH YOU - For public transport, a taxi or a phone call (Hide some money in your shoe or in a secret pocket).

HAVE YOUR KEYS READY - So you can quickly get into your car or front door.

INTRODUCE NEW TRADE - If you leave a bar, club or cruising area with someone you've just met, introduce them to a friend, acquaintance or bartender. And make sure the trade is aware that other people know you are leaving together.

MENTION YOU HAVE A ROOMMATE - Trade that intends robbing, drugging or bashing you at home may be deterred if you mention that your roommate is at home (even if you don't have one) 

BUY A WHISTLE - Whistles have prevented many attacks. Buy a sturdy one that cuts across city noise, and carry it always, around your neck, in your pocket or on your keyring and use it wisely. Use the whistle only in gay areas because it wont work in other areas. 

WATCH YOUR MOUTH - Verbal harassment is often a prelude to an attack. If you decide to answer back be prepared for what may follow.

If you're attacked:

ATTRACT ATTENTION - Blow your whistle or yell "FIRE"

MAKE EYE CONTACT - It's important to be able to identify anyone who attacks you.

RUN AWAY - Because bashers usually travel in packs and are particularly violent, your best defense is to try and get away.

USE YOUR JUDGMENT - Every situation is unique and each person's skills are different, let your judgment be your guide.