Man Charged Over Alleged Hate Crime in Bankstown, Sydney
25 January 2026
A man has been charged following an alleged religiously motivated assault in Sydney’s south-west, highlighting the serious legal consequences associated with hate-based offences under New South Wales criminal law.
According to NSW Police and reports published by major Australian news outlets, officers from the Police Transport Command attended South Terrace, Bankstown, at approximately 10.20am on Saturday, 24 January 2026, after receiving reports of an assault.
Police allege that a 51-year-old man was distributing religious flyers with several other men when he became involved in a verbal dispute with a passer-by about the material. During the altercation, the 51-year-old was allegedly assaulted.
A short time later, at around midday, a 40-year-old man approached police officers who were patrolling Bankstown Railway Station. He was arrested and taken to Bankstown Police Station, where he was charged with common assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The accused has since been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before Bankstown Local Court on Thursday, 26 February 2026. Police have confirmed that the injured man did not require medical treatment and that the two individuals were not known to each other.
Alleged Hate Crimes and the Law in NSW
While the charges laid relate to assault offences, police have indicated the matter is being treated as religiously motivated, which can significantly affect how a case is investigated and prosecuted. Courts may consider motivation as an aggravating factor when determining sentence if the accused is found guilty.
Steven Mercael, Principal Lawyer at Criminal Lawyers Group, explains that allegations involving hate crimes or bias-motivated violence require immediate legal advice:
“Even where injuries are minor, allegations of religious or racial motivation can dramatically increase the seriousness of a case. Early legal representation is critical to protecting your rights and ensuring the matter is properly defended.”
Charged With Assault or a Hate-Related Offence?
If you or someone you know has been accused or charged with assault, actual bodily harm, or an alleged hate crime, it is essential to obtain expert legal advice as early as possible.
At Criminal Lawyers Group, our experienced criminal defence lawyers regularly appear in Bankstown Local Court and courts across New South Wales. We provide strategic, confidential advice tailored to your circumstances.
👉 Visit https://www.criminallawyersgroup.com.au to arrange a free initial consultation with Steven Mercael and our team of expert criminal lawyers.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different and legal advice should be sought based on your individual circumstances.