The Special Commission of Inquiry into LGBTIQ hate crimes (the Inquiry) investigated unsolved suspected hate crime deaths of LGBTIQ people (or people who were presumed to be LGBTIQ) in NSW between 1970 and 2010.

Learn more: https://lgbtiq.specialcommission.nsw.gov.au/

Statement from the NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM

I recognise that the investigation failings highlighted by the Special Commission of Inquiry (SCOI) report have resulted in enduring hurt for many. They do not represent the standards the community expect of us, and we expect of ourselves.

To the victims and families that NSW Police failed by not adequately and fairly investigating those deaths between 1970 and 2010, I am sorry.

I apologise for the gaps in those investigative processes where records and exhibits were lost or not examined with enough rigour.

I realise that this has meant missed opportunities to identify possible offenders as new leads emerged or as new forensic advances became available.

And I acknowledge the increased suffering experienced by victims and their families where the crimes were motivated by bias against members of the LGBTIQ community.

I assure the LGBTIQ community that under my leadership, NSW Police will use these lessons to continue to improve the way it serves all members of the community with respect, fairness, and inclusivity.

The mistakes of the past will not define our future.