If you have suffered a violent attack, an armed robbery, sexual assault, or family violence, then you may be eligible for government support.
The victim of crime definition covers anyone who has experienced a physical, emotional, or psychological injury, or financial loss because they have been involved in a crime.
You may also be considered a victim of crime if you witnessed an act of violence, and have suffered a physical or psychological injury as a result.
In Victoria, victims of crime are supported by the Victims’ Charter Act 2006. This lays down how you should be treated and supported by the police, the courts, Office of Public Prosecutions, and agencies that offer victim support.
The Victims of Crime Compensation team and RV Legal understand these traumatic experiences can be tough. We know that healing from these events and coping with any legal proceedings can be mentally straining.
As such, our team is on standby to help you with support for:
- your daily needs
- your safety
- your home security
- your communications with police and making a report
- any counselling or medical support
- any transport or mobility requirements
- getting prepared for court
- getting any information about the offender.
Our victims of crime lawyers help with the legal process, which ensures that you heal and recover in your own time.
How Can I Get Help?
If you are a victim of crime, there is a wide support network available to help you and your needs.
In Victoria, the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) can make payments to eligible people when the crime happened within the state; it was reported to the police within a reasonable time; and if it led to adverse injuries.
The Victorian Government’s assistance scheme can provide:
- counselling and medical expenses
- safety related expenses
- loss or damage to clothing worn at the time of the incident
- loss of earnings
- funeral costs.
“Financial assistance should be about giving victims the support they need, when they need it—it should not be about cross-examining victims or making them attend court to plead for more funding for counselling,” said Fiona McCormack, who is the Victims of Crime Commissioner.
The funding is provided through VOCAT, who will take the time to listen to your story and assess your requirements. The average amount of financial assistance paid to a victim of crime is $7,700.
However, VOCAT understands that everyone’s situation is unique, so the amount of financial support may vary depending on the crime and if you are the primary or secondary victim.
There is also support for victims who are related to the primary victims of crime. This includes close family members, dependents, or children.
Seek Professional Help
The RV Legal team in Melbourne is well-equipped to ensure that your legal needs are taken care of.
Our compassionate approach allows you to heal from a traumatic event.
We ensure that our people get the benefits and entitlements they deserve and are prepared to enter back into their routine and way of life.
Importantly, we do not charge for our victim of crime services. All our expenses are covered by the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal.
For more information, please contact us.
