The Rights of Victims of Crime

A victim of crime is a person who suffered harm (whether it be physical, emotional, financial or psychological harm) because of a crime, or a person who dependents on someone (for example a parent) who has been injured or died as a result of a crime. Every person is unique and so everyone’s experience will be different. It’s important to get help and support to deal with these effects.

Rights and protections

Victims of crime in New South Wales have a Charter of Victims Rights to protect their rights. If you are in a life-threatening or emergency situation, you should always call 000 for help immediately. If you have been injured by an act of violence, such as an assault, robbery, domestic violence or sexual assault, that took place in NSW, you may be able to get compensation between $7,500 and $50,000. If you are concerned about your safety you can apply for a protection order. There are two types of orders: a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) or a Personal Protection Order (PPO).

Under the Charter of Victims Rights, a victim should be told about the progress of police investigations, be informed of any bail the defendant has entered into and the conditions of that bail, any charges laid against the accused, information about the trial/court process and the outcome of the trial.

Finally, if you have any enquiries about your rights as a victim of crime please contact the 'Victims Services’ Victims Access Line on 1800 633 063.