This GTV 9 News report from 21 May 1996 captures growing pressure on Victoria Police as two new potential class actions emerged in the wake of the landmark Tasty nightclub raid ruling. In August 1994, police strip‑searched 463 patrons and staff at the predominantly LGBTQIA+ venue – an operation that led to a major legal victory in May 1996 and financial compensation for those targeted.

The fresh cases highlighted here involve injuries to Richmond Secondary College supporters during a police baton charge, and the use of 'pressure point' arrest tactics on environmental protesters. Both matters triggered a State Ombudsman’s investigation and ultimately ended in financial settlements.

This story recalls a moment when Victoria Police faced accusations of being the most violent force in Australia. By 2000, the organisation had begun appointing LGBTQIA+ liaison officers to rebuild trust. And on the 20th anniversary of the Tasty nightclub raid, the Acting Chief Commissioner formally apologised to the LGBTQIA+ community for the harm caused.