A violent assault on a Chinese couple in Sydney’s Eastgardens has ignited widespread anger in the Chinese community. An online petition calling for urgent reforms to youth criminal justice has garnered nearly 30,000 signatures. The 42-year-old man and 40-year-old woman, both originally from China, suffered severe injuries in the attack on May 22. Seven children, aged between 12 and 16, have been detained, with six charged for assault. The petition pushes for a reduction in the minimum age of criminal responsibility and the restriction of bail for repeat youth offenders.
Ami, a cyclist who was attacked in Redfern in May, shares her story and doubts the effectiveness of adult jail terms for juveniles. Erin Chew, co-founder of the Asian Australian Alliance, points to a cultural background of hypervigilance among some Asian communities and addresses the complex relationship between such attitudes and the perception of being easy targets for crime. MP Jason Yat-Sen Li acknowledges the reality of living with racism without court evidence and advocates addressing poverty, disengagement, and trauma. The affected community is using social media to share defense tips, with some suggesting everyday items as weapons. However, authorities caution against vigilantism, highlighting the risks involved. Others, like community member Keira Yin, are forming mutual defense groups.
A similar attack occurred in Box Hill, Melbourne, where Neo Xia faced a machete-wielding teenager. This incident resulted in Xia’s injuries and the suspect’s arrest for reckless injury and assault. Xia’s experience reflects a broader trend of rising anti-Asian sentiment, exacerbated by the pandemic. The Asian Australian Alliance notes a shift from Covid-based harassment to accusations of espionage. Simon Chan of the Chinese Australian Forum criticizes political rhetoric and advocates for Australia to remain a beacon for multiculturalism.
The six children accused in the Eastgardens attack have been granted conditional bail and are to appear in court in June.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/30/alleged-attack-on-chinese-couple-leads-30000-people-to-sign-petition-to-toughen-australian-youth-laws-ntwnfb
