Three Chinese international students were allegedly assaulted and subjected to racial abuse near Central Station in Sydney's CBD last Saturday, prompting a NSW Police investigation and renewed scrutiny of public safety measures in the city center.
Lenny Tai, 29, and his two friends, Minghao Zhan, 20, and another student who declined to be named, were waiting for a DiDi ride-share near Central Station when two women began taunting them from across the street. The incident escalated when the women crossed the road and allegedly directed racist and sexually explicit abuse at the group.
The Alleged Assault
Footage taken by Zhan shows one woman saying: "You wanna f---ing say that c---? In Australia? … You will never be let back in our country," before physically confronting the students. Tai reported being grabbed by the neck, choked and scratched on the face. The students attempted to walk away to avoid confrontation, but the women allegedly followed them.
NSW Police confirmed they're investigating the incident on the corner of Pitt Street and Hay Street in Haymarket. A police spokesperson said, "The man was allegedly assaulted by two women who were unknown to him," adding that "The man sustained a scratch to his chin during the alleged assault." Tai and Zhan reported the incident to police the same day.
Impact on Victims
Tai, who's lived in Sydney for five years, hasn't left his home since the alleged attack took place less than one week ago. "I have nightmares every night, even last night … We couldn't sleep well, I can't eat, it's painful for me to recall that night," he told the Herald. "I live very close to where it happened. I don't feel safe."
Zhan expressed broader concerns about safety for international students. "I feel really scared," Zhan said. "I think it's not just Chinese students … These people hate Asians."
Broader Context
A 2026 study by the Australian Human Rights Commission found international students attending university in Australia experienced high levels of racism in public places. The study also found that vilification of Chinese international students worsened after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Police urged anyone with information about the incident to contact Sydney City Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Why This Matters:
This alleged attack strikes at the heart of Australia's $40 billion international education sector, which depends on students feeling safe in our cities. International students contribute significantly to the economy while enriching university campuses, but they're entitled to the same protection under law as any Australian citizen. The incident raises questions about police presence and deterrence in Sydney's CBD during late-night hours. If students don't feel secure using public transport hubs, it threatens not just their wellbeing but Australia's reputation as a destination for international education. Law enforcement must investigate this alleged assault thoroughly and ensure perpetrators face appropriate consequences. The rule of law applies equally to everyone, and maintaining public order in our city centers isn't negotiable.