If you have been the victim of an act of violence then you may have an entitlement to compensation under the Victims Support Scheme. A claim is required to be made within 2 years of the act of violence unless the act of violence involved domestic violence, child abuse or sexual assault. In those circumstances the claim must be made within 10 years, or if the victim was a child when the act of violence occurred, within 10 years after the day on which the child turned 18.
If a person is injured as a result of witnessing an act of violence (that is, a ‘secondary victim’) that person can apply for counselling support.
A victim can be entitled to the following:-
- Counselling support;
- Financial assistance for immediate needs – up to $5,000.00;
- Financial assistance for economic loss – up to $20,000.00;
- Recognition payment – from $1,500.00 to $10,000.00.
There is no time limit for victims of sexual assault if they were a child at the time the incident occurred to claim the recognition payment.
In addition to a claim under the victims support scheme a person may also have a civil action that can be taken against the offender. Strict time limits apply in relation to the civil actions (generally 3 years) and legal advice should be obtained as soon as possible.
If you would like further information or to find our if you may be entitled to compensation, call Peter Moore on (02) 4324 7699.
