Victim survivors in New South Wales will have a stronger, independent voice following the passage of the Victim Rights and Victims of Crime Commissioner Bill 2025. The legislation establishes an Independent Victims Commissioner to advocate on behalf of victims and oversee the implementation of the Charter of Victims’ Rights.
The new Commissioner will take over the advocacy functions of the existing Commissioner of Victims Rights, while the current office continues to manage the Victims Support Scheme and the register for victims of forensic patients. Operating independently of government and appointed by the Governor, the Commissioner will monitor systemic issues affecting victims, request information from relevant agencies, and prepare reports for Parliament.
The Independent Victims Commissioner will also have the authority to consult with victims and their supporters, conduct research into systemic challenges, and make recommendations to the Attorney General. The role is designed to ensure victims of crime are treated fairly and that their experiences inform policies and practices across justice and support agencies.
The legislation also renames the Victims Rights and Support Act 2013 as the Victims Support Act 2013 and establishes a new Victims Advisory Committee. This committee will include members of the public with experience relating to victims, as well as representatives from NSW Police, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Legal Aid, the Department of Communities and Justice, and an Aboriginal representative.
Attorney General Michael Daley said the move fulfils a key election promise and strengthens support for victims. “The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to give victim survivors of crime a stronger voice,” he said. “The Independent Victims Commissioner will play a crucial role in shaping policies affecting victim survivors and champion their interests.”
The new framework reflects extensive consultation with victims’ support organisations, justice agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure the Commissioner can operate effectively and independently while representing the needs of victim survivors across the state.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
