Victims of crime in Victoria will soon find it easier to receive financial assistance, thanks to a new initiative by the Allan Labor Government. The Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) is set to go live on 18 November, offering a streamlined online process that allows victims to apply from the privacy of their own homes, without needing to face their perpetrators in court.
The FAS, introduced by Minister for Victim Support Enver Erdogan, promises a maximum payout of $60,000 for those affected by crime, with additional provisions of up to $25,000 in certain cases. It replaces the courts-based Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT), eliminating the requirement for victims to appear in court, thereby reducing the risk of re-traumatisation.
This new scheme reflects the government’s commitment to being more trauma-informed and victim-centred. By allowing victims to avoid the often daunting and public experience of court proceedings, it aims to support emotional recovery and ensure that financial relief is more accessible.
For the first time, individuals can receive a formal recognition statement from the state, which acknowledges the impact of the crime and expresses official condolences. This move is seen as a significant step in acknowledging the emotional toll on victims, further personalising their experience with the justice system.
Minister Erdogan emphasised the importance of this change, stating, “The Financial Assistance Scheme is easy to access and straightforward – because victims of crime deserve support, not red tape.” The scheme aims to give victims a clearer path towards moving on with their lives by removing bureaucratic barriers.
Another crucial reform is the end of pooled financial assistance for families. Under the previous system, family members often had to share financial support, which sometimes led to conflict. Now, each individual in the family can receive support in their own time and based on their own needs.
The eligibility criteria have also been expanded, recognising a broader definition of family. This includes Aboriginal kinship relations, LGBTQI+ relationships, and close family members, such as a sister-in-law, who might not have been previously recognised. Additionally, victims of sexual offences or family violence now have up to 10 years to apply, offering more time to assess their situation and apply for the help they need.
Marnie Williams, CEO of the FAS, highlighted the impact of simplifying access to support, saying, “We know that when financial assistance is easy to access, victims of crime can focus on their emotional and physical recovery without the additional worry of navigating complex systems.”
While the new scheme is set to start in November, those currently in need of assistance can continue applying through VOCAT. Full details on the FAS can be found at the Victims of Crime website, ensuring that those seeking help are fully informed and ready for the transition to this new and improved system.
With up to $60,000 available, the Financial Assistance Scheme marks a crucial development in how the state recognises and compensates victims of crime, offering financial relief alongside emotional support to help them rebuild their lives.
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