Disclaimer: The material in this print-out relates to the law as it applies in the state of Victoria. It is intended as a general guide only. Readers should not act on the basis of any material in this print-out without getting legal advice about their own particular situations. Victoria Legal Aid disclaims any liability howsoever caused to any person in respect of any action taken in reliance on the contents of the publication.

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Victims of crime

Learn about rights and where to get support for people who have suffered physical or emotional injury, or financial loss because of a crime.

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A victim of crime is someone who has suffered physical, psychological or emotional injury, or financial loss because of a crime, such as:

  • robbery
  • violent attack
  • family violence
  • sexual assault.

It may also include a person who has witnessed a crime or a family member of a person who was injured or killed.

Victims of crime have rights

Victoria has a Victims’ Charter Act 2006 that sets out how you should be treated by everyone handling your case. This includes police, the courts, the Office of Public Prosecutions and victim support agencies. If you believe that an organisation has not followed the charter, you can make a complaint to the Victims of Crime Commissioner.

Read about our commitment to the victims' charter, and how to make a complaint about our treatment of victims of crime.

Reporting a crime

If you are a victim of crime, you can report the crime to police.

Financial assistance and compensation

Victims of crime may be able to get financial assistance from the Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme, or compensation from the person who committed the crime.

Victim impact statements

A victim impact statement explains how a crime has affected the victim. It is presented to the court when the defendant is being sentenced.

Other support for victims of crime

Learn where to get legal help and other support for victims of crime.

Publications and resources

Get legal help

Family violence intervention order applications – for affected family members

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