Supporting victims of crime

Why this is important

Victims of violent crime often need counselling and medical assistance to support their recovery. The Financial Assistance Scheme aims to improve victims' access to these vital services and make up for any loss of income due to mental or physical injuries. The scheme started work in 2024, replacing the previous approach, which required victims to attend a tribunal to access assistance.

Each year, tens of thousands of Victorians are victims of crime and the government spends $70 million to assist them. Primary victims, secondary victims and related victims of crime are eligible for different support under the scheme. 

In 2027–28, the scheme will have been running for 3 years. It will be timely to examine whether it supports victims to access the help they need, when they need it.

What we plan to examine

We plan to examine if the Financial Assistance Scheme ensures that victims of crime receive prompt assistance that supports their recovery. 

Who we plan to examine

Department of Justice and Community Safety