Have you or someone you know been a victim of a violent crime? Compensation may be available.
Most States would have a compensation scheme for victims of violent crime. In Victoria, the scheme is set out under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 and the administrator of the scheme is the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT).
Obviously, no one wants to be a victim of crime, let alone a violent one. Injury, physical or psychological, often results from such crimes and there may be financial assistance available through VOCAT to the victim.
A person may apply for financial assistance if:
- A violent crime was committed against them as a primary, secondary or related victim; and
- They have suffered an injury; and
- The crime occurred in Victoria; or
- They have incurred funeral expenses as a direct result of the death of a primary victim.
Financial assistance can include counselling, medical expenses, funeral expenses, loss of earnings, damage to clothing, safety related expenses and other expenses to assist in recovery. In addition, for primary victims, an award of Special Financial Assistance can be made, which is a monetary amount on behalf of the community in recognition of the harm suffered.
The victim may apply for assistance by themselves, through their guardian or administrator, parent (if the victim is under 18) or anyone VOCAT sees fit. However, to streamline the process and complexity, the victim may wish to apply through a lawyer. The legal fees of the lawyer are often paid for by VOCAT.
It is important to note that there is a time limit of 2 years to apply to VOCAT from the date of the violent crime. If you are out of time, you will need to seek permission from VOCAT to apply but there is no guarantee that it will be permitted. Where the crime is a physical or sexual abuse that occurred when the Applicant was under 18, no time limit applies.
So, if you or someone you know would like to apply to VOCAT and need assistance, please contact us for a free no obligations consultation on:
0422 752 933 (call or text) or email ha@leandassociates.com.au
Video and phone conference available. No need to come to the office.
If you like to know more about VOCAT compensation, what you can claim and what you need in detail Home | Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (vocat.vic.gov.au)
Disclaimer: the information on this page is general only and should not be taken as legal advice. As always, the law can be complex in relation to individual circumstances. If you would like tailored legal advice to your situation, please make an appointment.