Victims of Crime
A victim of crime is someone who has suffered physical, psychological or emotional injury, or financial loss because of a crime, such as
It may also include a person who has witnessed a crime or a family member of a person who was injured or killed.
Although a victim of crime is not a party in criminal proceedings, they play a vital role in the criminal justice process. Their testimony is a very important part of the prosecutor’s case against the accused.
If a charge is filed against the person who committed the crime, a victim may have to:
Compensation
As a victim of crime, they may be able to get financial help from the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal or compensation from the offender.
Victim Support
Victims support and referral cannot be fulfilled solely by the NSW Police Force. The police work with other agencies within the justice system to improve the response and outcomes for victims of crime.
Police will provide victims with information about support services. Victims will be referred to the Victims Access Line (VAL), run by Victims Services, Department of Attorney General and Justice, who can provide victims with information, referral and support to a range of services for victims of crime.
Domestic Violence Liaison Officers (DVLOs)
DVLOs are specialist police officers trained to provide support and referral in relation to domestic and family violence. Their role is important in developing and maintaining partnerships with other government and non-government agencies for victim support including follow up services, such as refuges. Most Police Area Commands/Police Districts have one or more DVLOs.
Youth Liaison Officers (YLOs)
YLOs are specialist police officers trained to deliver crime prevention programs to reduce victimisation and youth crime. They maintain networks with relevant agencies to provide support and referral. Most Police Area Commands/Police Districts have a YLO.
