Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal

VOCAT Operations

Stephanie.Oliver — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 04:05:57 +0000

VOCAT Operations Stephanie.Oliver Fri, 04/04/2025 - 15:05

Final document filing and conclusion of VOCAT operations

melissa.smith — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 05:18:06 +0000

Final document filing and conclusion of VOCAT operations melissa.smith Fri, 07/03/2025 - 16:18

VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2025 - Counselling Expenses

melissa.smith — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:42:55 +0000

VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2025 - Counselling Expenses melissa.smith Fri, 20/12/2024 - 11:42

Abstract

This Guideline is an aid for Tribunal Members, Tribunal Officers and Registrars in awarding financial assistance for expenses relating to counselling reports and sessions and is effective from 1 January 2025.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2025 - Counselling Expenses_Final signed.pdf	265.42 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2024 - Counselling Expenses.pdf	266.85 KB

Attachment	Size
Counselling Costs Guideline 2 of 2018.pdf	185.26 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 2 of 2020 - Counselling Expenses Guideline.pdf	105.65 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 2 of 2019 - Counselling Expenses (REVOKED).pdf	182.12 KB

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 2 of 21 Counselling Costs_Signed.pdf	106.89 KB

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_Guideline 2 of 2023 - Costs Guideline.pdf	141.08 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 2 of 2022_Counselling_Signed.pdf	109.7 KB

Publication Topic

Practice Directions & Guidelines

Published Date

20/12/2024

Updated date

20/12/2024

Guideline Type

Guidelines

VOCAT Guideline 1 of 2025 - Legal Costs

melissa.smith — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:35:42 +0000

VOCAT Guideline 1 of 2025 - Legal Costs melissa.smith Fri, 20/12/2024 - 11:35

Abstract

This Guideline is an aid to the exercise of the costs discretion given under section 48 of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 and is effective from 1 January 2025.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 1 of 2025 - Legal Costs_Final signed.pdf	234.87 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 1 of 2024 - Legal Costs.pdf	236.95 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2019- Legal Costs (REVOKED)_0.pdf	56.07 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2020 - Legal Cost Guideline_0.pdf	57.26 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1_Costs Guideline_VOCAT 2021_Signed.pdf	55.45 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2022 Costs_ Signed.pdf	55.39 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Costs Guideline 1 of 2018.pdf	92.04 KB

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_Guideline 1 of 2023 - Legal Costs.pdf	86.42 KB

Publication Topic

Practice Directions & Guidelines

Published Date

20/12/2024

Updated date

20/12/2024

Guideline Type

Guidelines

2025 VOCAT Guidelines

melissa.smith — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:29:34 +0000

2025 VOCAT Guidelines melissa.smith Fri, 20/12/2024 - 11:29

Annual Report 2023/2024

melissa.smith — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 01:16:32 +0000

Annual Report 2023/2024 melissa.smith Fri, 01/11/2024 - 12:16

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2023 - 2024

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
victims-of-crime-assistance-tribunal-annual-report-2023-24.pdf	8.38 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

01/11/2024

Updated date

01/11/2024

Annual Report 2023/2024

melissa.smith — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 01:12:04 +0000

Annual Report 2023/2024 melissa.smith Fri, 01/11/2024 - 12:12

The Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS)

govind — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 23:47:58 +0000

The Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) govind Fri, 06/09/2024 - 09:47

iAPPLY OUTAGE - 21 & 22 MAY 2024

melissa.smith — Thu, 16 May 2024 02:42:23 +0000

*iAPPLY OUTAGE* - 21 & 22 MAY 2024 melissa.smith Thu, 16/05/2024 - 12:42

VOCC - Lived Experience Program

melissa.smith — Wed, 08 May 2024 01:24:18 +0000

VOCC - Lived Experience Program melissa.smith Wed, 08/05/2024 - 11:24

Practice Direction 1 of 2024 - Awards of Assistance for Travel Expenses

melissa.smith — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 23:57:31 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2024 - Awards of Assistance for Travel Expenses melissa.smith Tue, 16/01/2024 - 10:57

Practice Direction 1 of 2024 - Awards of Assistance for Travel Expenses

melissa.smith — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 23:46:33 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2024 - Awards of Assistance for Travel Expenses melissa.smith Tue, 16/01/2024 - 10:46

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to fix a per kilometre rate at which the Tribunal may reimburse an applicant for travel expenses necessarily incurred by an applicant. The Practice Direction commences on 1 January 2024 and revokes Practice Direction 1 of 2016.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT PD 1 of 2024 - Awards of Assistance for Travel Expenses.pdf	309.73 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
Practice Direction 1 of 2011 - Awards of Assistance for Travel Expenses REVOKED.pdf	27.69 KB

Attachment	Size
Practice Direction 1 of 2016 - Awards of assistance for travel expenses REVOKED.pdf	709.14 KB

Publication Topic

Travel Expenses

Published Date

16/01/2024

Updated date

16/01/2024

2024 VOCAT Cost Guidelines

melissa.smith — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 23:28:59 +0000

2024 VOCAT Cost Guidelines melissa.smith Tue, 16/01/2024 - 10:28

VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2024 - Counselling Expenses

melissa.smith — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 23:08:27 +0000

VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2024 - Counselling Expenses melissa.smith Tue, 16/01/2024 - 10:08

Abstract

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2024 - Counselling Expenses.pdf	266.85 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 2 of 21 Counselling Costs (REVOKED).pdf	105.91 KB

Attachment	Size
Counselling Costs Guideline 2 of 2017.pdf	610.6 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 2 of 2019 - Counselling Expenses (REVOKED).pdf	182.12 KB

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_Guideline 2 of 2023 - Costs Guideline.pdf	141.08 KB

Attachment	Size
Counselling Costs Guideline 2 of 2018 (REVOKED).pdf	185.26 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 2 of 2016 - Cost Guideline (Counselling).pdf	631.78 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 2 of 2020 - Counselling Expenses Guideline.pdf	105.65 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 2 of 2022_Counselling_Signed.pdf	109.7 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2015 - Costs Guideline (Counselling REVOKED).pdf	622.94 KB

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_Practice Direction 1 of 2014 - Counselling Expenses.pdf	5.49 MB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2012 - Costs Guideline (Counselling REVOKED).pdf	598.48 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Cost Guideline 1 of 2011 (REVOKED).pdf	89.58 KB

Publication Topic

Practice Directions & Guidelines

Published Date

16/01/2024

Updated date

16/01/2024

Guideline Type

Guidelines

VOCAT Guideline 1 of 2024 - Legal Costs

melissa.smith — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 23:00:58 +0000

VOCAT Guideline 1 of 2024 - Legal Costs melissa.smith Tue, 16/01/2024 - 10:00

Abstract

This Guideline is an aid to the exercise of the costs discretion given under section 48 of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 and is effective from 16 January 2024. This Guideline replaces Guideline 1 of 2023 from 16 January 2024.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 1 of 2024 - Legal Costs.pdf	236.95 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
Legal Costs Guideline 1 of 2018 (REVOKED).pdf	95.58 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2019- Legal Costs (REVOKED)_0.pdf	56.07 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2020 - Legal Cost Guideline_0.pdf	57.26 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Cost Guideline 1 of 2021 (REVOKED).pdf	55.44 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2022 Costs_ Signed.pdf	55.39 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Cost Guideline 1 of 2007 (REVOKED).pdf	50.66 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Cost Guideline 1 of 2011 (REVOKED).pdf	89.58 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2012 - Costs Guideline (Counselling REVOKED).pdf	598.48 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Cost Guideline 1 of 2013 (REVOKED).pdf	306.92 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2014 - Costs Guideline (Counselling REVOKED).pdf	592.88 KB

Attachment	Size
Guideline 1 of 2015 - Costs Guideline (Counselling REVOKED).pdf	622.94 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Cost Guideline 1 of 2016 (1).pdf	305.2 KB

Attachment	Size
Legal Costs Guideline 1 of 2017 (REVOKED).pdf	297.22 KB

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_Guideline 1 of 2023 - Legal Costs.pdf	86.42 KB

Publication Topic

Practice Directions & Guidelines

Published Date

16/01/2024

Updated date

16/01/2024

Guideline Type

Guidelines

Annual Report 2022/2023

Stephanie.Oliver — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 22:41:45 +0000

Annual Report 2022/2023 Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 02/11/2023 - 09:41

Annual Report 2022-23

Stephanie.Oliver — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 22:27:14 +0000

Annual Report 2022-23 Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 02/11/2023 - 09:27

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2022 - 2023

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
14077 VOCAT Annual Report 2022_23_V7_WEB.pdf	9.76 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

02/11/2023

Updated date

02/11/2023

Contacting the Tribunal

Stephanie.Oliver — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 03:30:22 +0000

Contacting the Tribunal Stephanie.Oliver Wed, 09/08/2023 - 13:30

Centralisation of VOCAT - Update & Contacts

melissa.smith — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 02:32:35 +0000

Centralisation of VOCAT - Update & Contacts melissa.smith Tue, 27/06/2023 - 12:32

2024 Counselling Cost Guidelines

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 02:00:02 +0000

2024 Counselling Cost Guidelines Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 30/03/2023 - 13:00

Abstract

The Guideline is an aid for Tribunal Members, Tribunal Officers and Registrars in awarding financial assistance for expenses relating to counselling reports and sessions.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 2 of 2024 - Counselling Expenses.pdf	266.85 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

30/03/2023

Updated date

30/03/2023

Guideline Type

Guidelines

VOCAT MELBOURNE IS MOVING!

Stephanie.Oliver — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 23:12:24 +0000

VOCAT MELBOURNE IS MOVING! Stephanie.Oliver Wed, 15/03/2023 - 10:12

Practice Direction 1 of 2023 - Centralisation of the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal

Stephanie.Oliver — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 04:55:47 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2023 - Centralisation of the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Stephanie.Oliver Tue, 07/03/2023 - 15:55

Practice Direction 4 of 2022 - Koori VOCAT List

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 01:55:25 +0000

Practice Direction 4 of 2022 - Koori VOCAT List Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 22/12/2022 - 12:55

Practice Direction 4 of 2022 - Koori VOCAT List

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 01:30:16 +0000

Practice Direction 4 of 2022 - Koori VOCAT List Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 22/12/2022 - 12:30

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to establish the Koori VOCAT List as an ongoing part of the Tribunal's operations.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Practice Direction No. 4 of 2022.pdf	161.95 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD 2 -2009 Koori_VOCAT_List (REVOKED).pdf	20.05 KB

Publication Topic

Koori List

Published Date

22/12/2022

Updated date

22/12/2022

2023 VOCAT Cost Guidelines

Stephanie.Oliver — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 02:16:57 +0000

2023 VOCAT Cost Guidelines Stephanie.Oliver Wed, 21/12/2022 - 13:16

Annual Report 2021-22

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 03:49:43 +0000

Annual Report 2021-22 Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 15/12/2022 - 14:49

Abstract

The Tribunal's Annual Report for the 2021-22 financial year has been tabled and is now available online.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
13717 VOCAT Annual Report 2021_22_FINAL_WEB_HR.pdf	12.19 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

21/12/2022

Updated date

21/12/2022

Annual Report 2021-22

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 03:31:21 +0000

Annual Report 2021-22 Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 15/12/2022 - 14:31

DX (Document Exchange) Mail Service Cessation

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 03:52:34 +0000

DX (Document Exchange) Mail Service Cessation Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 27/10/2022 - 14:52

Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for Counselling Expenses (Remote Counselling)

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 00:54:00 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for Counselling Expenses (Remote Counselling) Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 29/09/2022 - 10:54

Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for Counselling Expenses

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 00:46:44 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for Counselling Expenses Stephanie.Oliver Thu, 29/09/2022 - 10:46

Abstract

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Tribunal is in a position to authorise payment for remote psychological or counselling sessions where an award has previously been made for face to face sessions, or upon application to the Tribunal for an award of psychological or counselling sessions.

Therefore, where a psychologist/counsellor has already been authorised future counselling for a VOCAT applicant, they can conduct these sessions remotely where they deem appropriate and will be able to seek payment from the Tribunal.

For new applications for psychological or counselling sessions, the Tribunal will authorise payment of any sessions awarded to be conducted remotely.

Changes to the Tribunal's Invoice Form 5 have occurred in line with Practice Direction 1 of 2022. Form 5 invoices must be signed by the applicant where remote counselling session have been undertaken. In circumstances where the applicant is unable to sign the Form 5, confirmation from the applicant must be submitted that the session was undertaken (eg. email in support) along with a Form 5 signed by the service provider.

The Form 5 declaration acknowledges an understanding of s.67 of the VOCA Act and knowingly giving false or misleading information to the Tribunal.

If you have any questions please contact help@vocat.vic.gov.au

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Signed Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for Counselling.pdf	359.75 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
VOCAT PD 1 of 21 Counselling_Signed.pdf	244.92 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

29/09/2022

Updated date

29/09/2022

Remote Counselling

Stephanie.Oliver — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 22:00:26 +0000

Remote Counselling Stephanie.Oliver Fri, 29/07/2022 - 08:00

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal launches the Dhumbumana Healing Strategy

Stephanie.Oliver — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 05:28:13 +0000

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal launches the Dhumbumana Healing Strategy Stephanie.Oliver Fri, 01/07/2022 - 15:28

Koori List Cultural Support Plan

donna.caruana — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 02:27:14 +0000

Koori List Cultural Support Plan donna.caruana Fri, 01/07/2022 - 12:27

Abstract

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) is working to strengthen the support it provides Koori
applicants and increase its engagement with their communities with the launch of the Dhumbumana Healing
Strategy.

As part of the strategy, VOCAT is introducing a formal process to ensure cultural information is considered
when an award of financial assistance is being made, to acknowledge that an applicant’s cultural journey
affects their ability to heal.

For assistance in completing the Cultural Support Plan Template please contact the Tribunal's Koori List Engagement Registrar

Phone: (03) 9628 7859
Email: koori@vocat.vic.gov.au

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Cultural Support Plan - FINAL.docx	351.95 KB

Publication Topic

Koori List Forms

Published Date

01/07/2022

Updated date

01/07/2022

VOCAT Koori List Brochure

Stephanie.Oliver — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 01:51:17 +0000

VOCAT Koori List Brochure Stephanie.Oliver Fri, 01/07/2022 - 11:51

Abstract

The VOCAT Koori List was established in 2006 to increase access to the Tribunals services for Koori victims of crime.

The attached brochure provides information regarding the Koori List, the type of assistance available, how to apply and obtain further information and support from the Tribunals Koori List registrars.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT 6p DL_web_spreads (FINAL WEB BROCHURE)_0.pdf	1.67 MB

Publication Topic

Brochures

Published Date

01/07/2022

Updated date

01/07/2022

Dhumbumana Healing Strategy

Stephanie.Oliver — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 01:36:36 +0000

Dhumbumana Healing Strategy Stephanie.Oliver Fri, 01/07/2022 - 11:36

Abstract

VOCAT will use the Dhumbumana Healing Strategy to better support Koori applicants and deliver a targeted
outreach program to improve our engagement with local Koori communities.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT_Healing strategy brochure_8pp_web2.pdf	2.77 MB

Publication Topic

Brochures

Published Date

01/07/2022

Updated date

01/07/2022

2022 Cost Guidelines

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 02:48:12 +0000

2022 Cost Guidelines suzanne.frawley Wed, 16/02/2022 - 13:48

Remote Counselling

suzanne.frawley — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 23:08:44 +0000

Remote Counselling suzanne.frawley Mon, 20/12/2021 - 10:08

New Publication - Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to files

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 23:38:21 +0000

New Publication - Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to files suzanne.frawley Thu, 11/11/2021 - 10:38

Annual Report 2020-21

donna.caruana — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 23:35:54 +0000

Annual Report 2020-21 donna.caruana Fri, 29/10/2021 - 10:35

Annual Report 2020-21

donna.caruana — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 23:01:41 +0000

Annual Report 2020-21 donna.caruana Fri, 29/10/2021 - 10:01

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2020-21

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
13439 VOCAT Annual Report_2020-21_V4_singlepages_FA_WEB.pdf	2.16 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

28/10/2021

Updated date

28/10/2021

Application for Review of Tribunal Officer Decision -Form 3

donna.caruana — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 06:12:46 +0000

Application for Review of Tribunal Officer Decision -Form 3 donna.caruana Wed, 22/09/2021 - 16:12

Abstract

Use this form to apply for a review of a decision made by a Tribunal Officer. NOTE: If you are wishing to apply for a review of a decision made by a Magistrate, you should contact the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). See Reviewing a Decision page.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Application for Review Form (TO).doc	179 KB

Publication Topic

Tribunal Officer Review

Published Date

22/09/2021

Updated date

22/09/2021

Government’s Circuit Breaker Lockdown

donna.caruana — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 01:23:02 +0000

Government’s Circuit Breaker Lockdown donna.caruana Tue, 20/07/2021 - 11:23

Practice Direction 3 of 2021- Tribunal Officer List

donna.caruana — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 00:33:09 +0000

Practice Direction 3 of 2021- Tribunal Officer List donna.caruana Thu, 01/07/2021 - 10:33

Abstract

The Chief Magistrate on 9 March 2021 created an Instrument of Delegation to Tribunal Officers. This Practice Direction develops procedures to ensure that the purpose and objectives of the Tribunal Officer List pursuant to the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 can be achieved.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Practice Direction No. 3 of 2021 - Tribunal Officer List_FINAL.pdf	183.45 KB

Publication Topic

Tribunal Officer List

Published Date

01/07/2021

Updated date

01/07/2021

New Tribunal Officer List - Melbourne

donna.caruana — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 00:24:28 +0000

New Tribunal Officer List - Melbourne donna.caruana Thu, 01/07/2021 - 10:24

New Publications - Counselling and Funeral Expenses

donna.caruana — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 04:52:00 +0000

New Publications - Counselling and Funeral Expenses donna.caruana Wed, 10/02/2021 - 15:52

Annual Report 2019-20 - Available Now!

donna.caruana — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 00:34:15 +0000

Annual Report 2019-20 - Available Now! donna.caruana Thu, 10/12/2020 - 11:34

Annual Report 2019-20

donna.caruana — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 00:23:11 +0000

Annual Report 2019-20 donna.caruana Thu, 10/12/2020 - 11:23

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2019-20

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
13166 VOCAT Annual Report 2019-2020_WEB V2.pdf	3.16 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

10/12/2020

Updated date

10/12/2020

Victims of Crime Assistance Rules 2020

suzanne.frawley — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 23:20:01 +0000

Victims of Crime Assistance Rules 2020 suzanne.frawley Mon, 31/08/2020 - 09:20

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Rules 2020

https://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/in-force/statutory-rules/victims-crime-assistance-rules-2020/002

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Victims of Crime Assistance Rules 2020 (Feb 2021 amendment).pdf	205.3 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
Victims of Crime Assistance Procedure Rules 2010.pdf	592.37 KB

Attachment	Size
Victims of Crime Assistance Rules 2020.pdf	241.79 KB

Publication Topic

Rules & Regulations

Published Date

28/08/2020

Updated date

25/02/2021

Victorian Government Recovery Road Map

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 05:58:36 +0000

Victorian Government Recovery Road Map suzanne.frawley Thu, 06/08/2020 - 15:58

Home Page

wrinkles-caravan-acoustic-tempest — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 00:49:47 +0000

Home Page wrinkles-carav… Thu, 06/08/2020 - 10:49

Melbourne Registry has moved!

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 00:57:46 +0000

Melbourne Registry has moved! suzanne.frawley Mon, 27/07/2020 - 10:57

Chief Magistrate Practice Direction 4 of 2020

donna.caruana — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 23:42:25 +0000

Chief Magistrate Practice Direction 4 of 2020 donna.caruana Tue, 24/03/2020 - 10:42

Remote Counselling

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 01:38:03 +0000

Remote Counselling suzanne.frawley Wed, 18/03/2020 - 12:38

Victims of Crime Annual Report 2018-19

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 01:13:47 +0000

Victims of Crime Annual Report 2018-19 suzanne.frawley Wed, 23/10/2019 - 12:13

Annual Report 2018 - 19

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 00:47:35 +0000

Annual Report 2018 - 19 suzanne.frawley Wed, 23/10/2019 - 11:47

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2018 - 19

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
12575 VOCAT Annual Report 2018-2019_v4_WEB_ƒ.pdf	2.45 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

23/10/2019

Updated date

23/10/2019

Annual Report 2017 - 18

suzanne.frawley — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 23:11:54 +0000

Annual Report 2017 - 18 suzanne.frawley Mon, 01/10/2018 - 09:11

Abstract

Victims of crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2017 - 18

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
11593 MCV VOCAT Annual Report 2017-18_Web Final.pdf	1.72 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

30/09/2018

Updated date

30/09/2018

Practice Direction 1 of 2018 - Safety Related Expenses CCTV Installation

donna.caruana — Thu, 10 May 2018 02:28:26 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2018 - Safety Related Expenses CCTV Installation donna.caruana Thu, 10/05/2018 - 12:28

Abstract

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal may award financial assistance for safety- related expenses including the installation of CCTV equipment. An applicant seeking the payment of such expenses must ensure that the security equipment installer is appropriately registered or licenced pursuant to the Private Security Act 2004.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Practice Direction 1 of 2018 - CCTV Installation.pdf	476.65 KB

Publication Topic

Safety Related Expenses

Published Date

10/05/2018

Updated date

10/05/2018

Changes to the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996

donna.caruana — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 01:23:03 +0000

Changes to the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 donna.caruana Wed, 28/03/2018 - 12:23

VLRC Review into the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996

andrew.chidzey — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 01:19:58 +0000

VLRC Review into the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 andrew.chidzey Wed, 27/12/2017 - 12:19

Annual Report 2016-17

andrew.chidzey — Wed, 15 Nov 2017 04:56:32 +0000

Annual Report 2016-17 andrew.chidzey Wed, 15/11/2017 - 15:56

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2016-17

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
10850 MCV VOCAT Annual Report 2017 WEB Final.pdf	1.48 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

15/11/2017

Updated date

15/11/2017

Safety Related Expenses

emma.taylor — Tue, 16 May 2017 00:40:17 +0000

Safety Related Expenses emma.taylor Tue, 16/05/2017 - 10:40

Information to provide to the Tribunal

emma.taylor — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 04:26:02 +0000

Information to provide to the Tribunal emma.taylor Tue, 07/03/2017 - 15:26

Bourke Street Tragedy

emma.taylor — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 22:45:55 +0000

Bourke Street Tragedy emma.taylor Tue, 14/02/2017 - 09:45

2015-16 Annual Report Tabled

donna.caruana — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 04:02:27 +0000

2015-16 Annual Report Tabled donna.caruana Thu, 27/10/2016 - 15:02

Annual Report 2015-16

donna.caruana — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 03:49:39 +0000

Annual Report 2015-16 donna.caruana Thu, 27/10/2016 - 14:49

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2015 - 16

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2015-16.pdf	1.52 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

27/10/2016

Updated date

27/10/2016

Victim Support Services

donna.caruana — Wed, 12 Oct 2016 01:17:05 +0000

Victim Support Services

donna.caruana Wed, 12/10/2016 - 12:17

Victims Support Agency

The Victims Support Agency (VSA), within the Department of Justice & Regulation, is the official Victorian Government Agency helping people in Victoria manage the effects of violent crime.

VSA represents people affected by crime, coordinating a whole-of-government approach to services for victims. The agency operates the Victims of Crime Helpline, and funds statewide services to provide victims with practical assistance, counselling and support through the justice system.

VSA is pivotal in linking victims to service systems, ensuring they receive personalised, timely and effective support to manage the effects of violent crime.

Victims of Crime Helpline

The Victorian Government’s Victims of Crime Helpline offers information, advice and support for you and your family.

Contacting the helpline is the first step to get free services to help you manage the effects of crime.

The helpline provides:

information about your rights
advice about reporting a crime
information about the legal process, including after the offender is in jail
help applying for compensation and financial assistance
connections to other support services, such as the Victims Assistance Program.

Free support is available anywhere in Victoria

The Victims of Crime Helpline can organise a support worker to help you with:

your day to day needs
emergency home security
managing your personal safety
communicating with police and making a report
organising counselling, transport and medical services
getting ready for court
preparing a Victim Impact Statement
applying for financial assistance
getting information about the offender.

This free service is available by contacting the Victims of Crime Helpline.

Open: 8am-11pm, 7 days a week

Call: 1800 819 817

Text: 0427 767 891

Email: vsa@justice.vic.gov.au

Other States' Victim Support Services

Criminal Injury Compensation (QLD)

Department of Justice Victims of Crime (NT)

Department of Justice Support for Victims (WA)

Victims Support Services (TAS)

Victim Support (ACT)

Victims Services (NSW)

Victims of Crime Co-ordinator (SA)

Removal of Statutory Declaration Requirement

donna.caruana — Mon, 03 Oct 2016 01:00:04 +0000

Removal of Statutory Declaration Requirement donna.caruana Mon, 03/10/2016 - 12:00

Join Our Contact List

donna.caruana — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 04:57:21 +0000

Join Our Contact List donna.caruana Wed, 28/09/2016 - 14:57

Victims of Crime Assistance (Delegation) Regulations 2023

Naomi.Nolet — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 01:37:15 +0000

Victims of Crime Assistance (Delegation) Regulations 2023 Naomi.Nolet Wed, 28/09/2016 - 11:37

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance (Delegation) Regulations 2023

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Victims of Crime Assistance (Delegation) Regulations 2023.pdf	27.75 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
Victims of Crime Assistance (Delegation) Regulations 2013.pdf	161.68 KB

Publication Topic

Rules & Regulations

Published Date

02/10/2023

Updated date

02/10/2023

Clothing Expenses

Naomi.Nolet — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 00:11:38 +0000

Clothing Expenses Naomi.Nolet Wed, 28/09/2016 - 10:11

What are clothing expenses?

Clothing expenses are expenses that are considered as a result of loss or damage to clothing worn at the time of the act of violence.

Documentation required in support of a claim for clothing expenses

The following documentation should be filed in support of claims for clothing expenses:

receipts, invoices or quotes for the cost of replacing the clothing; and/or
a statutory declaration detailing the cost of the clothing lost or damaged (value of replacement clothing must be equivalent to the value of damaged clothes).

English Not Your Language?

Naomi.Nolet — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 06:07:31 +0000

English Not Your Language? Naomi.Nolet Thu, 22/09/2016 - 16:07

Translating and Interpreting Service

If English is not your first language, Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal staff can speak to you via the assistance of the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS). You can contact the TIS directly on Ph: 131 450. This service is accessible anywhere in Australia for the cost of a local call.

Alternatively, you can contact the Tribunal provide your name, phone number and language to a staff member and they can organise the interpreting service to call you back.

The following steps will be taken to arrange your interpreter:

A staff member will call TIS on your behalf and request an interpreter in your language

TIS will make contact with an interpreter in your language

TIS will ask the interpreter to stay on the phone and TIS will call you

TIS will ensure that the Tribunal staff member is also on the phone.

At this stage, you proceed to speak in your language and the interpreter will then speak to the Tribunal staff member in English.

Legal information in different languages

You can speak to someone in English or ask for an interpreter.

You can also get this service in these languages:

عربي / Arabic – (03) 9269 0127

Hrvatski / Croatian – (03) 9269 0164

Ελληvικά / Greek – (03) 9269 0167

Italiano / Italian – (03) 9269 0202

فار س / Persian – (03) 9269 0123

Polski / Polish – (03) 9269 0228

Српски / Serbian – (03) 9269 0332

Українська Moba / Ukrainian – (03) 9269 0390

For people with a hearing or speech impairment

Contact the National Relay Service and ask to be connected to Victoria Legal Aid

TTY/voice: 133 677 or 1800 555 677 (country callers)

SSR/speak and listen: 1300 555 727 or 1800 555 727 (country callers)

Travel Expenses Claim Form

Naomi.Nolet — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 05:12:15 +0000

Travel Expenses Claim Form Naomi.Nolet Thu, 22/09/2016 - 15:12

Abstract

This form may be used to make a claim for travel expenses necessarily incurred.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Travel Expenses Claim - Form 1 2024.pdf	135.52 KB

Publication Topic

Travel Expenses

Published Date

01/01/2016

Updated date

01/01/2016

Practice Direction 2 of 2021- Psychological/Psychiatric Assessment Reports by Non-Treating Practitioners

Naomi.Nolet — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 04:34:02 +0000

Practice Direction 2 of 2021- Psychological/Psychiatric Assessment Reports by Non-Treating Practitioners Naomi.Nolet Thu, 22/09/2016 - 14:34

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to prescribe procedures in relation to the preparation and filing of assessment reports prepared by a psychologist or psychiatrist who will not be providing treatment/counselling to the applicant, the subject of the report.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT PD 2 of 21_ Counselling Assessment Reports SIgned.pdf	91.82 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 2-2021 - Form 1 - Assessment report_0.doc	101.5 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_Practice Direction 2 of 2014 - Assessment Reports.pdf	1.48 MB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

08/02/2021

Updated date

08/02/2021

Application for Review of Judicial Registrar's Decision

Naomi.Nolet — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 03:29:20 +0000

Application for Review of Judicial Registrar's Decision Naomi.Nolet Thu, 22/09/2016 - 13:29

Abstract

Use this form to apply for a review of a decision made by a Judicial Registrar. NOTE: If you are wishing to apply for a review of a decision made by a Magistrate, you should contact the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). See Reviewing a Decision page.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Application for Review of JR decision.docx	48.5 KB

Publication Topic

Judicial Registrar Reviews

Published Date

01/11/2011

Updated date

11/04/2025

Special Financial Assistance Table

Naomi.Nolet — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 06:35:45 +0000

Special Financial Assistance Table Naomi.Nolet Wed, 21/09/2016 - 16:35

Abstract

Table setting out the various provisions for Special Financial Assistance under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996.

Publication Details

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
SFA Table - Regulations 2021 (FINAL Dec 2021)_0.pdf	264.38 KB

Publication Topic

Information Sheets

Published Date

06/12/2021

Updated date

06/12/2021

Complaints

donna.caruana — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 05:29:26 +0000

Complaints donna.caruana Wed, 21/09/2016 - 15:29

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal is committed to improving the tribunal experience and delivering exceptional customer service. Where you believe we have not met your expectations, we support your right to provide feedback or make a complaint.

The Magistrates' Court Feedback and Complaints Policy which encompasses the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal, sets out a process whereby complaints about court services, staff or facilities are investigated and resolved in a fair and prompt manner.

The Tribunal will aim to respond to your feedback or complaint within 20 business days. If these timelines cannot be met, you will be contacted and advised of an expected response time.

We will use the personal information you provide to respond to you in accordance with out privacy statement Privacy Statement.

General enquiries and feedback

If you have a general enquiry about an application, please contact the Tribunal managing your application. Alternatively, you can contact the Tribunal via email at help@vocat.vic.gov.au.

Feedback regarding Tribunal processes can be provided:

in person or by calling the Tribunal and speaking to a staff member
via email to help@vocat.vic.gov.au
via post to the Tribunal venue managing your application.

Complaints against Judicial Officers

Complaints about the conduct or capacity of Victorian judicial officers may be made to the Judicial Commission of Victoria. The Commission is an independent organisation established under the Judicial Commission of Victoria Act 2016 to investigate complaints about judicial officers.

Phone: (03) 9604 2420
Fax: (03) 9604 2422
Postal address: Judicial Commission of Victoria GPO Box 4305 Melbourne VIC 3001
Email: enquiries@judicialcommission.vic.gov.au
Website: www.judicialcommission.vic.gov.au

Complaints against Tribunal staff

Any complaint in relation to Tribunal staff or processes should be in writing and forwarded to the Tribunal’s Principal Registrar:

Donna Caruana
Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal
GPO Box 882, Melbourne, Vic. 3001

or via email to help@vocat.vic.gov.au

Note: The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal will not comment or provide feedback on an award of assistance from a Tribunal Member or Judicial Registrar. You should seek legal advice if you would like to review the outcome of an application.

Victims of Crime Assistance (Special Financial Assistance) Regulations 2021

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 00:44:54 +0000

Victims of Crime Assistance (Special Financial Assistance) Regulations 2021 suzanne.frawley Wed, 21/09/2016 - 10:44

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance (Special Financial Assistance) Regulations 2021

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Victims of Crime Assistance (Special Financial Assistance) Regulations 2021 - Authorised Version.pdf	177.87 KB

Publication Topic

Rules & Regulations

Published Date

09/12/2021

Updated date

09/12/2021

Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 1998

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 00:09:35 +0000

Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 1998 suzanne.frawley Wed, 21/09/2016 - 10:09

Abstract

Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 1998

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/vic/consol_act/vcaata1998428/

Publication Details

Publication Topic

Acts

Published Date

21/09/2016

Updated date

21/09/2016

Sentencing Act 1991

suzanne.frawley — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 00:06:34 +0000

Sentencing Act 1991 suzanne.frawley Wed, 21/09/2016 - 10:06

Abstract

Sentencing Act 1991

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/vic/consol_act/sa1991121/

Publication Details

Publication Topic

Acts

Published Date

21/09/2016

Updated date

21/09/2016

Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 21:35:25 +0000

Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 suzanne.frawley Wed, 21/09/2016 - 07:35

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/vic/consol_act/vocaa1996271/

Publication Details

Publication Topic

Acts

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Victims of Crime Assistance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2003 Second Reading Speech

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:57:35 +0000

Victims of Crime Assistance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2003 Second Reading Speech suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:57

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2003 Second Reading Speech

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCA (Miscellaneous Amendments ) Bill 2003 Second Reading Speech.doc	36 KB

Publication Topic

Second Reading Speeches

Published Date

01/05/2003

Updated date

20/09/2016

Victims of Crime Assistance Bill 1996 Second Reading Speech

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:54:24 +0000

Victims of Crime Assistance Bill 1996 Second Reading Speech suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:54

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Bill 1996 Second Reading Speech

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCA Bill 1996 Second Reading Speech.doc	44 KB

Publication Topic

Second Reading Speeches

Published Date

31/10/1996

Updated date

20/09/2016

Mandarin - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:35:17 +0000

Mandarin - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:35

Abstract

Mandarin - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_Applications_brochure_Mandarin.pdf	163.23 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Mandarin - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:34:13 +0000

Mandarin - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:34

Abstract

Mandarin - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Mandarin.pdf	184.01 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Mandarin - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:32:59 +0000

Mandarin - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:32

Abstract

Mandarin - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Mandarin.pdf	182.16 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Mandarin - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:30:28 +0000

Mandarin - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:30

Abstract

Mandarin - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Mandarin.pdf	194.04 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Mandarin - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:29:16 +0000

Mandarin - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:29

Abstract

Mandarin - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Interim_Application_brochure_Mandarin.pdf	166.68 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Cantonese - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:28:13 +0000

Cantonese - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:28

Abstract

Cantonese - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_Application_brochure_Canton.pdf	122.77 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Cantonese - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:27:02 +0000

Cantonese - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:27

Abstract

Cantonese - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Canton.pdf	137.27 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Cantonese - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:25:39 +0000

Cantonese - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:25

Abstract

Cantonese - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Canton.pdf	130.95 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Cantonese - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:24:29 +0000

Cantonese - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:24

Abstract

Cantonese - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Canton.pdf	133.73 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Cantonese - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:21:32 +0000

Cantonese - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:21

Abstract

Cantonese - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Interim_Application_brochure_Canton.pdf	73.35 KB

Publication Topic

Chinese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Vietnamese - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:19:36 +0000

Vietnamese - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:19

Abstract

Vietnamese - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_Application_brochure_Viet.pdf	124.28 KB

Publication Topic

Vietnamese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Vietnamese - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:17:55 +0000

Vietnamese - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:17

Abstract

Vietnamese - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Viet_0.pdf	132.49 KB

Publication Topic

Vietnamese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Vietnamese - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:15:33 +0000

Vietnamese - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:15

Abstract

Vietnamese - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Viet.pdf	128.57 KB

Publication Topic

Vietnamese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Vietnamese - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:12:44 +0000

Vietnamese - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:12

Abstract

Vietnamese - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_Applicant_brochure_Viet.pdf	127.9 KB

Publication Topic

Vietnamese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Vietnamese - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:10:14 +0000

Vietnamese - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:10

Abstract

Vietnamese - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Interim_Application_brochure_Viet_0.pdf	113.04 KB

Publication Topic

Vietnamese

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Turkish - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:08:53 +0000

Turkish - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:08

Abstract

Turkish - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_Applications_brochure_Turkish.pdf	125.64 KB

Publication Topic

Turkish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Turkish - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:07:25 +0000

Turkish - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:07

Abstract

Turkish - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Turkish.pdf	135.54 KB

Publication Topic

Turkish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Turkish - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:05:43 +0000

Turkish - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:05

Abstract

Turkish - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Turkish.pdf	132.5 KB

Publication Topic

Turkish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Turkish - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:04:22 +0000

Turkish - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:04

Abstract

Turkish - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Turkish.pdf	131.74 KB

Publication Topic

Turkish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Turkish - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 04:02:21 +0000

Turkish - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 14:02

Abstract

Turkish - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Interim_Application_brochure_Turkish.pdf	114.1 KB

Publication Topic

Turkish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Polish - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:59:00 +0000

Polish - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:59

Abstract

Polish - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Polish_Variation_Application.pdf	182.27 KB

Publication Topic

Polish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Polish - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:56:23 +0000

Polish - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:56

Abstract

Polish - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Polish_Related_Victim_Applicant.pdf	180.06 KB

Publication Topic

Polish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Polish - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:55:04 +0000

Polish - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:55

Abstract

Polish - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Polish_Secondary_Victim_Applicant.pdf	187.19 KB

Publication Topic

Polish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Polish - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:52:44 +0000

Polish - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:52

Abstract

Polish - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Polish_Primary_Victim_Applicant.pdf	184.91 KB

Publication Topic

Polish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Polish - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:51:09 +0000

Polish - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:51

Abstract

Polish - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Polish_Interim_Application.pdf	157.45 KB

Publication Topic

Polish

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Macedonian - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:49:38 +0000

Macedonian - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:49

Abstract

Macedonian - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_Application_brochure_Maced (1).pdf	109.47 KB

Publication Topic

Macedonian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Macedonian - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:48:13 +0000

Macedonian - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:48

Abstract

Macedonian - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Maced.pdf	119.2 KB

Publication Topic

Macedonian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Macedonian - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:46:45 +0000

Macedonian - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:46

Abstract

Macedonian - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Maced.pdf	118.44 KB

Publication Topic

Macedonian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Macedonian - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:45:17 +0000

Macedonian - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:45

Abstract

Macedonian - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Maced.pdf	119.01 KB

Publication Topic

Macedonian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Macedonian - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:42:47 +0000

Macedonian - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:42

Abstract

Macedonian - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Interim_Application_brochure_Maced.pdf	104.11 KB

Publication Topic

Macedonian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Italian - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:39:26 +0000

Italian - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:39

Abstract

Italian - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_Applications_brochure_Italian.pdf	49.06 KB

Publication Topic

Italian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Italian - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:37:10 +0000

Italian - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:37

Abstract

Italian - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Italian.pdf	54.58 KB

Publication Topic

Italian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Italian - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:35:16 +0000

Italian - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:35

Abstract

Italian - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Italian.pdf	52.86 KB

Publication Topic

Italian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Italian - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:33:51 +0000

Italian - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:33

Abstract

Italian - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Italian.pdf	63.43 KB

Publication Topic

Italian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Italian - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:29:36 +0000

Italian - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:29

Abstract

Italian - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Interim_Applications_brochure_Italian.pdf	57.11 KB

Publication Topic

Italian

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Greek - Variation Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:26:53 +0000

Greek - Variation Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:26

Abstract

Greek - Variation Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_application_brochure_greek.pdf	119.99 KB

Publication Topic

Greek

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Greek - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:25:49 +0000

Greek - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:25

Abstract

Greek - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_applicants_brochure_greek.pdf	138.56 KB

Publication Topic

Greek

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Greek - Secondary Victim - Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:24:09 +0000

Greek - Secondary Victim - Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:24

Abstract

Greek - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_applicants_greek.pdf	132 KB

Publication Topic

Greek

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Greek - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:22:15 +0000

Greek - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:22

Abstract

Greek - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_applicants_brochure_greek (1).pdf	128.38 KB

Publication Topic

Greek

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Greek - Interim Application Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 03:20:11 +0000

Greek - Interim Application Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 13:20

Abstract

Greek - Interim Application Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Interim_application_brochure_greek.pdf	109.34 KB

Publication Topic

Greek

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Arabic- Variation Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 02:23:08 +0000

Arabic- Variation Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 12:23

Abstract

Arabic - Variation Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Variation_Applications_brochure_Arabic.pdf	140.02 KB

Publication Topic

Arabic

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Arabic - Related Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 02:21:56 +0000

Arabic - Related Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 12:21

Abstract

Arabic - Related Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Related_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Arabic.pdf	148.66 KB

Publication Topic

Arabic

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Arabic - Secondary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 02:19:58 +0000

Arabic - Secondary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 12:19

Abstract

Arabic - Secondary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Secondary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Arabic.pdf	147.1 KB

Publication Topic

Arabic

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Arabic - Primary Victim Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 02:11:57 +0000

Arabic - Primary Victim Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 12:11

Abstract

Arabic - Primary Victim Brochure

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Primary_Victim_Applicants_brochure_Arabic (1).pdf	143.89 KB

Publication Topic

Arabic

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Statutory Declaration

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:54:00 +0000

Statutory Declaration suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:54

Abstract

Statutory Declaration form for use when required by the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Statutory Declaration.docx	20.75 KB

Publication Topic

Statutory Declaration

Published Date

01/03/2019

Updated date

01/03/2019

Related Victim Statement of Claim Form

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:52:16 +0000

Related Victim Statement of Claim Form suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:52

Abstract

Statement of Claim Form to be completed by Related Victims.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT_Statement_of_Claim_Related_Victim.pdf	45.09 KB

Publication Topic

Statement of Claim

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Secondary Victim Statement of Claim Form

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:50:08 +0000

Secondary Victim Statement of Claim Form suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:50

Abstract

Statement of Claim Form to be completed by Secondary Victims.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT_Statement_of_Claim_Secondary.pdf	42.22 KB

Publication Topic

Statement of Claim

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Primary Victim Statement of Claim Form

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:46:03 +0000

Primary Victim Statement of Claim Form suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:46

Abstract

Statement of Claim Form to be completed by Primary Victims.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT_Statement_of_Claim_Primary2010.pdf	40.36 KB

Publication Topic

Statement of Claim

Published Date

20/09/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Application for Extension of Time Form

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:42:31 +0000

Application for Extension of Time Form suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:42

Abstract

The Tribunal's extension of time process is now captured within the Tribunal application for financial assistance form.

If your application for extension of time relates to an application made prior to 1 May 2016 (date of form changes) you may use this form for your extension of time application.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Extension of time Form 2016.pdf	445.99 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
Application_for_Extension_of_Time (1).pdf	11.22 KB

Publication Topic

Extension of Time

Published Date

01/05/2016

Updated date

20/09/2016

Subsequent Report - Additional hours of counselling - Form 3 PD 1 of 2022

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:39:18 +0000

Subsequent Report - Additional hours of counselling - Form 3 PD 1 of 2022 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:39

Abstract

A report in this format is to be provided to the Tribunal when the psychologist or psychiatrist recommends that the applicant should have further counselling beyond that previously awarded by the Tribunal.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 3 - Report Further counselling.doc	92 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

29/09/2022

Updated date

29/09/2022

Initial Report - More than 5 hours counselling - Form 2 PD 1 of 2022

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:34:50 +0000

Initial Report - More than 5 hours counselling - Form 2 PD 1 of 2022 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:34

Abstract

A report in this format is to be provided to the Tribunal when the psychologist or psychiatrist recommends that the applicant should have more than five hours of counselling.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
FORM 2 - Initial Report - More than 5 hours counselling .pdf	211.26 KB

Attachment	Size
FORM 2 - Initial Report - More than 5 hours counselling _1.doc	101.5 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

29/09/2022

Updated date

29/09/2022

Initial Report - Up to 5 hours counselling - Form 1 PD 1 of 2022

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:30:55 +0000

Initial Report - Up to 5 hours counselling - Form 1 PD 1 of 2022 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:30

Abstract

A report in this format is to be provided to the Tribunal when the psychologist or psychiatrist has provided up to five hours of counselling to an applicant, and either the applicant is not seeking an award for further counselling, or the counsellor does not recommend more than five hours of counselling.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 1 - Report up to 5 hours counselling.doc	107 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

29/09/2022

Updated date

29/09/2022

Counselling and Report Fee Invoice - Form 5 PD 1 of 2022

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:28:09 +0000

Counselling and Report Fee Invoice - Form 5 PD 1 of 2022 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:28

Abstract

Counsellors must complete this form in order to obtain payment of fees from the Tribunal.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 5 Counselling and report fee invoice.doc	94 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

29/09/2022

Updated date

29/09/2022

Assessment Report by non-treating practitioner - Form 1 PD 2 of 2021

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:22:20 +0000

Assessment Report by non-treating practitioner - Form 1 PD 2 of 2021 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:22

Abstract

A report in this format is to be provided to the Tribunal when an applicant or their legal representative has requested that a psychologist or psychiatrist prepare an assessment report for the Tribunal, and the psychologist/psychiatrist does not propose to provide counselling/treatment to the applicant.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD 2-2021 - Form 1 - Assessment report_0.doc	101.5 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

29/09/2022

Updated date

29/09/2022

Application for Counselling - Form 4 PD 1 of 2022

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:18:17 +0000

Application for Counselling - Form 4 PD 1 of 2022 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:18

Abstract

Applicant and counsellor must complete this form to request assistance for counselling sessions.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 4 Application for counselling.doc	67.5 KB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

29/09/2022

Updated date

29/09/2022

Undertaking by media representative (Access Information) - Form 3 PD 4 of 2021

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:15:33 +0000

Undertaking by media representative (Access Information) - Form 3 PD 4 of 2021 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:15

Abstract

All media representatives requesting access to information and/or documents contained in a Tribunal file must sign an undertaking in this format prior to access being provided.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_PD_4_2021 - Access to Files FORM 3_0.pdf	105.05 KB

Publication Topic

Access to Information

Published Date

11/11/2021

Updated date

11/11/2021

Undertaking (Access Information) - Form 2 PD 4 of 2021

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:10:35 +0000

Undertaking (Access Information) - Form 2 PD 4 of 2021 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:10

Abstract

All persons (other than media representatives) requesting access to information and/or documents contained in a Tribunal file must sign an undertaking in this format prior to access being provided.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_PD_4_2021 - Access to Files FORM 2_0.pdf	57.64 KB

Publication Topic

Access to Information

Published Date

11/11/2021

Updated date

11/11/2021

Application to Access Information - Form 1 PD 4 of 2021

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:06:19 +0000

Application to Access Information - Form 1 PD 4 of 2021 suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:06

Abstract

All applications to access information about an application for assistance and/or documents contained in a Tribunal file must be made in writing using this form.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_PD_4_2021 - Access to files FORM 1.pdf	99.74 KB

Publication Topic

Access to Information

Published Date

09/11/2021

Updated date

11/11/2021

Application for Interim Award

suzanne.frawley — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 01:00:33 +0000

Application for Interim Award suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 11:00

Abstract

Use this form to apply to the Tribunal for urgent assistance prior to the finalisation of an application for assistance.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Application for interim award (FINAL 2015).doc	160 KB

Publication Topic

Application For Financial Assistance

Published Date

06/01/2015

Updated date

06/01/2015

RSS News

leesa.willan — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 00:55:56 +0000

RSS News leesa.willan Tue, 20/09/2016 - 10:55

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication. It's an easy way for you to keep up with news and information that's important to you. This content is called a "feed." This icon is the link to the RSS feed.

What is an RSS Reader?

An RSS reader is a small software program that collects and displays updates. It allows you to scan headlines from a number of sources in a central location, such as latest Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Practice Directions and Guidelines. RSS is written in the Internet coding language known as XML (eXtensible Markup Language).

Where can I get an RSS Reader?

Some browsers, such as the current versions of IE, Firefox and Safari have built in RSS readers. If you're using a browser that doesn't currently support RSS, there are a variety of RSS readers available in the web; some are free to download and others are available for purchase.

How do I use RSS Feeds?

The first step is to choose an RSS reader. Each reader has a slightly different way of adding a new feed, also called a "channel." Follow the directions for your reader.

If you are new to RSS, read about RSS on the "What is" website, http://www.whatisrss.com/ or watch one of the videos on YouTube about how RSS works.

Try this short YouTube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHWmVwZXlwo

Privacy

leesa.willan — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 00:46:32 +0000

Privacy leesa.willan Tue, 20/09/2016 - 10:46

Website Privacy Statement

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) values the privacy of every individual's personal information and health information. VOCAT is committed to protecting the information it collects and uses by compliance with its obligations under the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 and the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic). Protecting your privacy and your personal and health information is an important aspect of the way we create, organise and implement our activities online and offline.

This Website Privacy Statement applies to this website which is operated by Court Services Victoria under the domain name www.vocat.vic.gov.au ('website'). This Website Privacy Statement explains how your personal information (being information capable of identifying you as an individual) will be treated as you access and interact with this website. The practices outlined in this Website Privacy Statement are subject to any rights we may have to handle personal information in accordance with law.

Collection of your personal information

The personal information we collect via this website includes:

the content of any electronic forms you submit via this website, requesting us to provide services or information, or take actions
information submitted if you participate in an online survey
any messages or comments you submit to us via this website or to email addresses displayed on this website, which may include personal information such as name, email address and telephone number.

Use and disclosure of your personal information

You can browse this website anonymously, without disclosing your personal information.

You may choose to provide us with information in the form of feedback or questions.

In addition to providing our services to you and carrying out your requests, we may use or disclose personal information that we collect about you for purposes including the following:

for the purpose that we have collected the information
purposes related to our research, planning, product and service development, security and testing
purposes connected with the operation, administration, development or enhancement of this website
where we suspect that fraud or unlawful activity has been, is being or may be engaged in
any other purposes required or authorised by law.

We may share personal information within Court Services Victoria and with third parties. The types of third parties to whom we may disclose that personal information includes our service providers who assist us in providing this website and our products and services such as organisations who provide archival, auditing, professional advisory, banking, mailhouse, delivery, recruitment, call centre, technology, research, utility and security services. We may also disclose your personal information to third parties acting on your behalf, for example your solicitor or interpreter.

If you have made an online application, your application will be forwarded to the appropriate Court Services Victoria unit or agency and any other third parties to whom your application relates or who can assist in processing your application.

Web Statistics Data Collection

Pages on this site are coded with Google Analytics software. This is transparent to you as the user, as the software makes use of an invisible image at the bottom of the web page. This software stores a cookie in your browser and sends information to Google Analytics. This enables Google Analytics to track the number of unique visitors to the site. In no way does it identify users personally.

We do not and will not marry any data collected by Google Analytics with any personal information.

Security

We have implemented technology and security policies, rules and measures to protect the personal information that we have under our control. However, you should be aware that there are risks in transmitting information across the internet. So whilst we strive to protect such information, we cannot ensure or warrant the security of any information transmitted to us online and individuals do so at their own risk. Once any personal information comes into our possession, we will take reasonable steps to protect that information from misuse and loss and from unauthorised access, modification and disclosure. If you are concerned about conveying sensitive material to us over the internet, you might prefer to contact us by telephone or mail. We will remove personal information from our system where it is no longer required (except where archiving is required).

Feedback form, information request form and email

We may preserve the content of any feedback form, information request form, email or other electronic message that we receive. Any personal information contained in that message will only be used or disclosed in ways set out in this Website Privacy Statement. We will not use that information to add you to a mailing list without your consent.

If you subscribe to our updates using RSS we will only use this service to provide updates to our content.

Links to external websites

This Website Privacy Statement does not extend beyond this website. When following links to other sites from this website, we recommend that you read the privacy statement of that site to familiarise yourself with its privacy practices.

Cookies

Like many sites, this website may use cookies from time to time.

Cookies are small data files that a website is able to place on a user's hard drive to record aspects of that user's experience of the website. For example, we may use cookies to record that a user visited a particular section of the website, that their browsing software was a particular version or to ensure that online applications and transactions do not require you to re-input information when moving between web pages. In this way, cookies can improve the operation of the website, and make the experience more efficient, more enjoyable or more personalised. Importantly, in depositing information on a user's computer and referring to it later in the same session (sessional) or on a subsequent visit (persistent), cookies do not need to identify the user or record any personal information.

The default settings of browsers like Netscape and Internet Explorer may allow some or all cookies, but users can easily take steps to erase cookies from their hard-drive, block all cookies, or receive a warning before a cookie is stored. However, some parts of sites may not function fully for users that disallow cookies.

Disclaimer

leesa.willan — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 00:43:11 +0000

Disclaimer leesa.willan Tue, 20/09/2016 - 10:43

This website is provided for general information only. The State of Victoria does not represent or warrant that this website is accurate, authentic or complete. You must not rely on this website as a statement of government policy.

You should assess whether the information is accurate, authentic or complete and where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

To the extent permitted by law, the State of Victoria excludes liability for any loss (including loss from viruses) caused by use or reliance on this website.

You must view this website in full screen format. The State of Victoria is not responsible for the display of this website in any other format.

This website provides links to external websites. The State of Victoria does not control and cannot be liable for these websites. The State of Victoria does not endorse any external website and does not warrant that they are accurate, authentic or complete. Your use of any external website is governed by the terms of that website. The provision of a link to an external website does not authorise you to reproduce, adapt, modify, communicate or in any way deal with the material on that site.

The inclusion of any email addresses on this website is not consent to receiving unsolicited commercial electronic messages or SPAM.

Copyright

leesa.willan — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 00:40:29 +0000

Unless stated otherwise, the Copyright © of all material on this site is held by the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal. Reproduction or reuse of this material for commercial purposes is forbidden without written permission.

For permission contact:

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal - Principal Registry

Level 1, 233 William St

Melbourne VIC 3000

Tel: (toll free) 1800 882 752

Tel: 03 9628 7855

Fax: 03 9628 7853

Email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

GPO Box 882

Melbourne VIC 3001 Australia

Relevant Review Cases

Naomi.Nolet — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 00:12:54 +0000

Relevant Review Cases Naomi.Nolet Tue, 20/09/2016 - 10:12

This section contains a selection of relevant review cases from Austlii's website, arranged according to the following topics:

Definitions

Interpretation

Eligibility for financial assistance

Limits on financial assistance

Procedures and powers of VOCAT

Considerations relevant to awards of financial assistance

Review, variation and refunds

Transitional provisions

Definitions
Act of violence: Section 3(1)	Wilkins v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 1554 Summary: Mildura 2004- applicant arrested and allegedly sustained an injury to his spleen while in police custody. AVA and GAR v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 2078 Summary: Latrobe Valley 2008- child applicant has explicit photos of her taken of her by her mother’s partner. Child primary victim and mother secondary victim.
Injury: Section 3(1)	RBA v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 2225 Summary: Ballarat 2005- applicant’s husband manipulates her into performing unwanted sexual activity by making it appear that their family is under surveillance. AVA and GAR v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 2078 Summary: Latrobe Valley 2008- child applicant has explicit photos of her taken of her by her mother’s partner. Child primary victim and mother secondary victim.
Relevant Offence: Driving Offences	Mustafovski v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2017] VCAT 1288 Summary: Narre Warren March 2013- motorcyclist dies after a collision with a vehicle turning right at a stop sign. Determination as to whether or not driver of vehicle causing death committed an act of violence. Fantham v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2018] VCAT 1245 Summary: Passenger in car that was stationary at red light, when rammed from behind by another vehicle. Determination as to whether or not the driver of vehicle causing the collision committed an act of violence. Newbury v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2018] VCAT 1829 Summary: Pedestrian sustained injuries as a result of being struck by a taxi as he was crossing a pedestrian crossing. Determination as to whether or not driving offences punishable by imprisonment can amount to an act of violence.
Relevant offence: Suicide	Dennison v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2003] VCAT 1249 Summary: A train driver inadvertently strikes and kills a person laying across the tracks to commit suicide.
Relevant offence: Administer drugs	Irvine v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 1025 Summary: Merebin 2000- a male dies as a result of ingesting alcohol and non-prescribed methadone supplied to him by a friend. Fitzgerald v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2001] VCAT 1257 Summary: Croydon 1996- a female dies from a heroin overdose. There is insufficient evidence to determine whether a third party’s actions contributed to her death.
Medical Expense	Ractliffe v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2015] VCAT 205 Summary: In 2012 the applicant sustains brain injuries from an assault and is awarded assistance through VOCAT. He sought to claim $405 as a variation for an occupational therapy assessment which VOCAT refused to award.

Interpretation
Criminal act: Criminal intent	BB v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 1314 Summary: A primary school student applies in relation to assaults and threats to kill by other students in 2003-2006. BVB v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VSC 57 Summary: A primary school student applies in relation to assaults and threats to kill by other students in 2003-2006.
Criminal act: Must be offence against the person	Lowe v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2004] VCAT 1092 Summary: Frankston 2002- the applicant’s house was damaged as a result of arson. The applicant was not present on the property at the time. Mathews v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2012] VCAT 1099 Summary: Mount Clear 2009- the applicant’s caravan, partially constructed house and shed were damaged and two dogs perished as a result of arson. The applicant was not present on the property at the time.
Criminal act: Involuntary conduct	Gulcan v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2007] VCAT 642 Summary: Footscray 2000- a vehicle collided with pedestrians, one of whom was fatally injured, after the driver suffered a fit. Jafaro v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 2372 Summary: Footscray 2000- a vehicle collided with pedestrians, one of whom was fatally injured, after the driver suffered a fit.
Criminal act: Consent	RBA v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 2225 Summary: Ballarat 2005- the applicant’s husband manipulates her into performing unwanted sexual activity by making it appear that their family is under surveillance. BR v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VSC 152 Summary: Ballarat 2005- the applicant’s husband manipulates her into performing unwanted sexual activity by making it appear that their family is under surveillance.
Criminal act: Negligently causing serious injury	Grant and Grant v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 2022 Summary: Portsea 2004- a male drowns after going on a scuba diving expedition provided by a diving company.
Criminal act: Self Defence	Attard & Naboulsi v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2011] Summary: The deceased Naboulsi attended the home of an acquaintance, Mamaj, highly agitated and intoxicated, armed with a knife and stabbing at the fly wire security door. Mamaj reached around the door and stabbed Naboulsi, who later died from this injury. Family members applied to VOCAT as related victims.

Eligibility for Financial Assistance
Safety Related Expense: Section 8(2)(e)	Curtis v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2017] VCAT 1286. Summary: The applicant was the victim of a violent home invasion in 2010. A Primary Victim award was made in 2012. Application made for variation of original award - consideration as to whether there was a change in circumstances and also whether the claim was for a safety-related expense or to assist recovery.
Definition of primary victim: Unborn child	McKenna v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2003] VCAT 1488 Summary: In 2002 the applicant sustained injuries in a car accident while pregnant which resulted in the stillbirth of her baby. She applied to VOCAT as a related victim.
Definition of primary victim: Section 7(2)(c)	Will v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2011] VCAT 1739 Summary: The applicant applied as both a primary and secondary victim in relation to the assault of her injured adult son. She was not present at the assault. Hall v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2004] VCAT 1359 Summary: The applicant applied as a primary victim after seeing a neighbour assaulted by multiple people in the street, and was awarded counselling and loss of earnings, however was found to be a secondary victim and was not awarded Special Financial Assistance. Smith v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2003] VCAT 1489 Summary: : The applicant applied as a primary victim after seeing her father assault her mother, however was found to be a secondary victim and was not awarded Special Financial Assistance.
Definition of secondary victim	Will v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2011] VCAT 1739 Summary: The applicant applied as both a primary and secondary victim in relation to the assault of her injured adult son. She was not present at the assault.
Expenses incurred: Whether direct result of act of violence	WQS v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2014] VCAT 81 Summary: The grandmother of the applicant applied for the award to be varied to cover tutoring expenses. JM v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 496 Summary: The applicant suffered sexual abuse as a child and sought to submit that as a result he became addicted to heroin and contracted Hepatitis C. Costs for treatment were sought.
Awards of financial assistance: Reasonableness of expense claimed	CS v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2006] VCAT 1061 Summary: The applicant suffered sexual abuse as a child in the 1930s and sought in excess of 100 counselling sessions. CFC v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2018] VCAT 1145 Summary: The applicant sought 100 counselling sessions as part of their final award. Only 24 were granted, the applicant sought a variation for the additional 85 sessions. Lukeis v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2006] VCAT 2473 Summary: The applicant was assaulted in a road rage incident and was awarded SFA and various expenses. A variation was sought for osteopathic & homeopathic treatment and eye vitamins. Waters v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2006] VCAT 2361 Summary: The applicant was assaulted in a road rage incident and was awarded various expenses. A variation was sought for a gym membership.
Awards of financial assistance: Exceptional circumstances to assist recovery	Gatto v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 966 Summary: The applicant was working as a security guard in St Kilda in 2006 when he was assaulted, and sought payment of a Taekwondo membership. RN v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2005] VCAT 2651 Summary: The applicant was sexually assaulted in 2003 and sought payment for a 10 day holiday in Adelaide and a stereo. ML v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2006] VCAT 292 Summary: The applicant sought a variation for a laptop, software, training, driving lessons, gym membership, martial arts, Chinese massage and dance lessons.
Special financial assistance: Evidence of injury and uplift provisions	J v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 532 Summary: The applicant was sexually abused by her brother-in-law in the 1960s and VOCAT refused her application for extension of time. Loncar v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 1342 Summary: The applicant was indecently assaulted in the 1970s and was awarded special financial assistance by VOCAT. He sought an uplift on the amount of special financial assistance awarded. Rattray v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2012] VCAT Summary: The applicant is a police officer who was assaulted whilst on duty and received $500 special financial assistance. He sought an increase in the quantum of special financial assistance. Pham v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2016] VCAT 298 Summary: The applicant suffered an injury as a result of a head-on collision caused by a driver driving on the wrong side of the road. He sought an uplift from category C to category A in relation to special financial assistance on the basis that he suffered a loss of bodily function.
Definition of related victim: Intimate personal relationship	Reid v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 373 Summary: The applicant is the aunt of the deceased and applied as a related victim on the basis that she and the deceased had an intimate personal relationship. Handford v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2018] VCAT 1198 Summary: The applicant is the grandchild of the deceased and applied as a related victim on the basis of intimate personal relationship. it was found that in order for there to be an intimate personal relationship between a grandchild and a grandparent, the relationship must be higher than that of a "normal" grandchild/grandparent relationship.
Assistance to related victims: Concept of distress	Vita v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2000] VCAT 2317 Summary: Two related victims, whose daughter died as a result of culpable driving, were awarded $18,000 distress each. Upon review, the amount was increased to the maximum of $50,000 each. Krasauskas v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (No.2) [2008] VCAT 1284 Summary: Three related victims, whose partner/father died as a result of a car crash, were awarded $15,000 each. Upon review, the awards of two of the applicants were increased to $30,000 and $24,000 respectively.

Limits on Financial Assistance

Other entitlements to be taken into account: Section 16

Tanner & Ors v Smart [2010] VSC 463

Summary: Supreme Court Compensation matter which subtracted the amount the Tribunal paid to the applicants from the amounts ultimately awarded.

Jafaro v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 2372

Summary: Footscray 2000- a vehicle collided with pedestrians, one of whom was fatally injured, after the driver suffered a fit. VCAT took into account the amount awarded by the TAC to the applicant.

Krasauskas v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2007] VCAT 1407

Summary: Three related victims, whose partner/father died as a result of a car crash, were awarded $15,000 each. Upon review, the awards of two of the applicants were increased to $30,000 and $24,000 respectively. TAC entitlements were taken into account.

Eades v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2008] VCAT 448

Summary: In 2004, Robert Eades was killed while driving to work and the offender was charged with culpable driving causing death. Accident Compensation Act 1985 entitlements were taken into account.

Loss of earnings

Safrin v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2011] VCAT 2214

Summary: VOCAT rejected the applicant’s claim for loss of earnings as it was vague, unsupported by submissions and did not comply with Practice Direction 5/2008.

Pham v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal and Anor [2016] VSCA 102

Summary: Assistance for victims of crime – Loss of earnings – Applicant previously received payments in respect of lost earnings from Transport Accident Commission – Whether cap on assistance for loss of earnings applies before deductions made for compensation received from other sources

Procedure and Powers of VOCAT
Procedural Fairness: Division 3	AB v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal and Ors [2015] VSC 245 Summary: AD made an application to the Tribunal in relation to sexual assault perpetrated by her father AB. VOCAT notified AB of AD’s application. AB sought to call AD’s mother, AC, to give corroborating evidence denying the allegations. AC submitted that if she were required to give evidence that AD would be likely to self-harm or commit suicide. VOCAT excused AC from giving evidence on that basis. AB initiated proceedings in the Supreme Court seeking a declaration that he is entitled to call AC to give evidence on the basis that the Tribunal had no power to excuse AC from giving evidence, that the Tribunal breached its obligation to allow him to call evidence, and that it took into account irrelevant considerations.
Time for making application: Section 29	J v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 532 Summary: The applicant was sexually abused by her brother-in-law in the 1960s and VOCAT refused her application for extension of time. S v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 1257 Summary: The applicant made two separate applications, one for threats to kill and the other for rape, with both applications refused under Section 29. Clement v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 495 Summary: The applicant was assaulted in 1997 and suffered ongoing dental issues. The application to VOCAT was not lodged until 4.5 years after the assault and a satisfactory reason for the delay was not provided. Purcell v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2011] VCAT 1463 Summary: The applicant alleged assault by her former partner. The application was lodged outside of time and the extension of time application was refused. B F K v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2017] Summary: Appeal pursuant to Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 1998 (Vic), s 148 – Question of law – Whether there was any evidence to support a particular finding of fact – Whether Member erred in identifying and applying applicable legal test – Finding that a 23 year delay in making an application for financial assistance to the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal threatened the capacity of the decision-maker to make a fair decision – No error – Appeal dismissed
Standard of proof: Section 31	J v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 532 Summary: The applicant was sexually abused by her brother-in-law in the 1960s and the Tribunal refused her application for extension of time.
Notification of Alleged Offender: Section 34	P v Crimes Compensation Tribunal [1997] 2 VR 63 - Currently only available in hard copy Summary: P applied to the Crimes Compensation Tribunal in relation to threats to kill, assaults and rapes by her former husband. CCT advised P that they intended to notify the alleged offender of the application. P sought to make submissions on this point and CCT refused to receive P’s submissions.
Access to documents: Section 42A	Kay v AG (Vic) (No.2) [2010] VSCA 27 Summary: A vexatious litigant sought leave to lodge an application for review with VCAT in respect of VOCAT’s decision not to allow him access to documentation on a Tribunal file.

Considerations Relevant to Awards of Financial Assistance
Fail to provide assistance to investigation: Section 52 (special circumstances)	Nichol v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2000] VCAT 840 Summary: The applicant made a statement to police and an alleged offender was charged. The day before the court hearing was scheduled the applicant elected not to proceed and the charges were withdrawn. The applicant then lodged an application with VOCAT which was refused under section 52.
Reasonable time for reporting act of violence: Section 53	TUN v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 1599 Summary: The applicant made an application in respect of alleged assaults by her former partner which were not reported to police. The Tribunal refused the application under section 52. Haddara v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 1133 Summary: The applicant was assaulted and conveyed to hospital. He alleges his older brother went to a police station to make a report of the assault hours after the assault, and the next week, but there was no follow up from police. The applicant himself went to a police station to make a report three weeks later. CS v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2006] VCAT 1061 Summary: The applicant suffered sexual abuse as a child in the 1930s. She lodged an application in 2001 and sought in excess of 100 counselling sessions. Sanders v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2003] VCAT 396 Summary: The applicant was pushed off a pier. The Tribunal refused an application on the grounds that on the balance of probabilities there was no criminal act, the matter was not reported to police within reasonable time and the applicant had a prior offence for recklessly cause injury. VCAT set aside this decision and remitted the matter to VOCAT for consideration. Frost v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 1390 Summary: An application was refused under section 29, 52 and 53. Hay v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 45 Summary: The applicant alleged he was sexually assaulted between the ages of 12 and 14 and made a statement to police in 2000, and an application to VOCAT in 2001. The Tribunal refused his application for extension of time on the grounds that the applicant failed to provide an explanation for the delay.
Past criminal activity: Section 54	White v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 455 Summary: The applicant applied in relation to an assault. The Tribunal refused his application for medical expenses and special financial assistance on the basis of his long criminal history, which included imprisonment. VCAT set aside this decision and awarded medical expenses only. Mitchell v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2003] VCAT 1731 Summary: The Tribunal found that the applicant was a primary victim of an act of violence and had sustained an injury, and was therefore eligible for special financial assistance. However the amount of special financial assistance was reduced to nil due to his criminal record. VCAT set aside this decision and awarded him $7500 of special financial assistance. Nguyen v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2001] VCAT 2028 Summary: The applicant and alleged offender were criminal associates involved in drug dealing. The applicant gave information to police and the alleged offender shot him in retribution. VOCAT refused his award on the grounds of his criminal record. VCAT set aside this decision and awarded him medical expenses and clothing expenses. CZG v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2020] VSCA 120 CZG v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2018] VCAT 523 CZG v VOCAT & Anor [2019] VSC 203 Summary: The applicant was shot and left a paraplegic following attending a confrontation armed with a machete. Review takes into consideration past criminal history as a young offender involving violence and involvement in events leading up to the act of violence. The VCAT review was followed by an appeal in the Supreme Court. Leave to appeal was granted to questions of law A, B, C and D but the appeal was dismissed. Leave to appeal on question of law E was refused.
Provocation: Section 54	Fallon v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 414 Summary: The applicant verbally abused the alleged offender, followed her, then shoved her into a corner and yelled in her face. The alleged offender then assaulted the applicant. VCAT upheld VOCAT’s decision to refuse the application. Heron v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2005] VCAT 961 Summary: VOCAT refused to award assistance as it could not conclude who threw the first punch in the fight that ensued between the applicant and alleged offender and stated that provocation was a factor. VCAT upheld this decision. Larson v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2012] VCAT 1162 Summary: VOCAT found that the applicant was a primary victim but refused to award assistance due to the applicant’s extensive criminal history including a murder conviction. VCAT upheld this decision.

Review, Variations and Refunds
Review of VOCAT decisions: Section 59 (powers of VCAT on review)	Wilkins v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 1554 Summary: Mildura 2004- applicant arrested and allegedly sustained an injury to his spleen while in police custody. PT v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2008] VCAT 84 The applicant was a victim of repeated rape, false imprisonment and threat with a firearm. She was awarded assistance and applied for a variation for further counselling and a holiday. 10 sessions of counselling were awarded and the holiday was not. VCAT affirmed the decision in relation to the holiday and awarded 20 counselling sessions.
Review of VOCAT decisions: Section 59 (enlargement of time limit for lodging review)	Goggin v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 1131 Summary: An open Coroner’s finding was made in relation to the death of the applicant’s brother and the Tribunal refused the application as it could not be satisfied that an act of violence had taken place. Mare v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 414 Summary: The applicant was born in 1977 and her father killed her mother when she was 8. She was made a ward of the State and an application was made to the Crimes Compensation Tribunal on her behalf. She was awarded $4500. Her brother and sister made application much later to VOCAT and were awarded upwards of $35,000. Mare v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (No.2) [2010] VCAT 2079 Summary: The applicant was born in 1977 and her father killed her mother when she was 8. She was made a ward of the State and an application was made to the Crimes Compensation Tribunal on her behalf. She was awarded $4500. Her brother and sister made application much later to VOCAT and were awarded upwards of $35,000.
Review of VOCAT decisions: Payment of costs	TUN v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 1599 Summary: The applicant made an application to VOCAT in respect of alleged assaults by her former partner which were not reported to police. The Tribunal refused the application under section 52.
Variation of award: Section 60 (fresh evidence and causal link)	GDE v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2009] VCAT 914 Summary: The applicant applied to VOCAT for special financial assistance, counselling, medical expenses and ‘other’. When the statement of claim was filed, only the claim for medical expenses was pursued and the application was finalised. The applicant then applied for a variation for special financial assistance and counselling. VOCAT advised it had no jurisdiction to make the variation. Davis v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2008] VCAT 2535 Summary: The applicant made an application to vary the award to attend a heavy vehicle driving course. The application was refused. VCAT upheld the Tribunal’s decision. Gandy v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2007] VCAT 338 Summary: The applicant’s original application to VOCAT was refused. Upon review, an award was made for counselling and medical expenses. The applicant then sought a variation for numerous items including loss of earnings, self-defence classes, holiday, tutoring for her son and reimbursement for safety-related expenses.
Reservation of future expenses: Issue of whether six year time limit stands	Mewett v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2006] VCAT 1298 Summary: The Crimes Compensation Tribunal made an award to the applicant in 1995 and the application to VCAT relates to whether this was an interim award or final award. Mihan v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2004] VCAT 538 Summary: VCAT sought to determine firstly whether the applicant should be permitted to bring his application out of time pursuant to section 59, and secondly whether the applicant can bring his application more than six years after the act of violence.

Transitional provisions

Transitional provisions: Entitlement to assistance

J v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2002] VCAT 532

Summary: The applicant was sexually abused by her brother-in-law in the 1960s and VOCAT refused her application for extension of time.

Transitional Provisions: Availability of special financial assistance

DJP v Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal [2010] VCAT 281

Summary: The applicant applied in relation to sexual assaults which occurred before 1 July 1997. VOCAT made an award for counselling but not for special financial assistance due to the Tribunal’s view of the operation of transitional provisions.

VOCAT Koori List

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:52:30 +0000

VOCAT Koori List suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:52

Abstract

The Koori Vocat List has been operating within the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal since 2006. It developed as an initiative of several Tribunal members and registrars who, through their involvement with the Koori community, were aware that the Tribunal was not receiving the number of applications for assistance by Koori victims of crime they would have expected. This information sheet provides an overview of the Tribunal's Koori List.

The Tribunal's publications are downloadable in Adobe PDF formats. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view documents in PDF format. Adobe Acrobat Reader can be downloaded from the Adobe website.

IF you would like to receieve this publication in an accessible format please email us on help@vocat.vic.gov.au or phone during office hours on (toll free) 1800 882 752 or (03) 9628 7855.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Koori List Info Sheet.pdf	775.21 KB

Publication Topic

Information Sheets

Published Date

29/01/2015

Updated date

19/09/2016

Safety Related Expenses Information Sheet

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:47:25 +0000

Safety Related Expenses Information Sheet suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:47

Abstract

From 1 July 2010, the Victims of Crimes Assistance Act 1996 was amended to include a category of financial assistance for safety-related expenses actually and reasonably incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred in the future, by a primary victim as a direct result of an act of violence. Financial assistance for safety-related expenses is only available to primary victims.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Safety Related Expenses Factsheet.pdf	78.48 KB

Publication Topic

Information Sheets

Published Date

01/09/2010

Updated date

19/09/2016

General Information Brochure

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:38:32 +0000

General Information Brochure suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:38

Abstract

Brochure giving a brief overview of the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal, the application process, who can apply and the financial assistance available from the Tribunal.

The Tribunals brochures are downloadable in Adobe PDF formats. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view documents in PDF format. Adobe Acrobat Reader can be downloaded from the Adobe website.

If you would like to receive the brochures in an accessible format please email us on help@vocat.vic.gov.au or phone during office hours on (toll free) 1800 882 752 or (03) 9628 7855.

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
final brochure.pdf	369.61 KB

Publication Topic

Brochures

Published Date

18/07/2018

Updated date

18/03/2020

Accessibility Statement

leesa.willan — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:23:32 +0000

Accessibility Statement leesa.willan Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:23

This website has been developed to ensure the content is available to the widest possible audience, including readers using assistive technology or accessibility features.

The aim is to conform to level AA Accessibility. Refer to the W3C's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 1.0 at Level AA.

In addition, the website also conforms to the Victorian Government's Accessibility Standard.

If there is any difficulty accessing content such downloadable documents please contact us for alternative access if needed.

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal - Principal Registry

Level 1, 233 William St

Melbourne VIC 3000

Tel: (toll free) 1800 882 752

Tel: 03 9628 7855

Fax: 03 9628 7853

Email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

GPO Box 882

Melbourne VIC 3001 Australia

DX 350080 Melbourne

Media Releases

Anonymous — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:20:37 +0000

Media Releases Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:20

There are currently no media releases issued by the Tribunal.

Our Staff

Anonymous — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:09:59 +0000

Our Staff

Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:09

The Tribunal employs a Principal Registrar, registrars and administrative staff to support its operation.

The role of a registrar

Registrars perform an important role within the Tribunal, and undertake much of the preparatory work required in advance of an application for financial assistance being determined, working closely with Tribunal members.

Registrars provide advice and support to applicants in the course of lodging an application for financial assistance, preparing applications for determination, and in applying to vary an award of financial assistance.

The work undertaken by registrars includes obtaining and reading information provided by police regarding the circumstances of an alleged offence; obtaining and reading psychological reports; medical reports and hospital records; obtaining criminal history information and the outcome of criminal prosecutions; ensuring that appropriate documentation has been filed in support of an application for financial assistance (for example, that the statement of claim is correctly completed and supported by invoices, receipts or quotes); arranging for awards of financial assistance to be paid; and providing administrative support in relation to applications for the variation of awards.

Registrars also consider and determine applications for interim financial assistance. Following an increase in the amount of financial assistance that may be awarded by a registrar from $1,000 to $5,000 in September 2008, registrars now determine approximately 35% of all the applications for interim financial assistance that are made pending the final determination of an application for financial assistance.

Our Judiciary

Anonymous — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:07:04 +0000

Our Judiciary

Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:07

Applications for financial assistance are determined by Tribunal members, who are also Magistrates or Judicial Registrars of the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal consists of the Chief Magistrate of the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria and all other persons who hold the office of magistrate under section 7 of the Magistrates’ Court Act 1989, or acting magistrate under section 9 of that Act.

Chief Magistrate’s role

In addition to being a Tribunal member, the Chief Magistrate is responsible for the arrangement of the business of the Tribunal and may give directions in respect of its operating procedures and practices.

The Chief Magistrate may delegate to Judicial Registrars (from 1 July 2010), the Principal Registrar and registrars of the Tribunal certain powers under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996.

The role of a Tribunal Member

Tribunal members determine who is eligible to receive financial assistance from the Tribunal, and the nature of the financial assistance that they are entitled to, in accordance with the requirements of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996. Tribunal members are required to fulfil the objectives of the Act by awarding financial assistance that will assist a victim of crime in their recovery, and to acknowledge the victim and their experience.

Tribunal members have a lot of contact with registrars, providing guidance to them regarding the preparation of an application for financial assistance.

Supervising Magistrates

A Supervising Magistrate for the Tribunal is appointed by the Chief Magistrate. Magistrate Fiona Hayes has held this position since February 2018.

The role of the Supervising Magistrate includes liaison between the registry and tribunal members; encouraging consistent practices across regions; disseminating information about legislative and procedural changes within the Tribunal; chairing the Tribunal’s Coordinating Committee meetings; advising the Chief Magistrate on rules, practice directions and other issues relating to the Tribunal; liaising with the Victim Support Agency and victim support services; and participating in community education programs.

Judicial Registrars

Judicial Registrars are independent judicial decision makers appointed by the Governor in Council to assist the court in both judicial and administrative functions. Judicial Registrars commenced work in the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal from 1 February 2012, following a delegation of powers by the Chief Magistrate. Initially a pilot programme commenced at Heidelberg, Ringwood and Melbourne court venues.

Due to the success of the pilot programme it was extended to all metropolitan, regional and rural courts in February 2013. The Judicial Registrars undertake Victims of Crime Assistance matters at all court venues they visit across Victoria allowing for efficient determination of applications.

Judicial Registrars can deal with applications under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act by primary, secondary and related victims except where there are allegations of sexual assault, unless the offender has been found guilty. Judicial Registrar’s do not hear Koori List applications. Judicial Registrar’s can also hear applications for an extension of time to lodge an application, interim orders, access to documents and variation of awards, as well as give directions.

Our Role

Anonymous — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 23:03:41 +0000

Our Role Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 20/09/2016 - 09:03

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal hears and determines applications for financial assistance made by victims of violent crime committed in Victoria. It assists victims of crime in their recovery by paying for expenses that they have incurred, or are likely to incur in the future, as a direct result of the crime. It is intended to be a sympathetic and compassionate forum for applicants to relate their experience as victims of crime.

Purpose and objective of legislation

The Tribunal was established by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996. The objectives of the Act are to:

Assist victims of crime in their recovery by paying them financial assistance for expenses incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred, by them as a direct result of the crime;
To pay certain victims of crime financial assistance as a symbolic expression by the State of the community’s sympathy and condolence for, and recognition of, significant adverse effects experienced or suffered by them as victims of crime; and
To allow victims of crime to have recourse to financial assistance under the VOCA Act where compensation for the injury cannot be obtained from the offender or other sources.

The purpose and objectives of the Act specifically state that awards of financial assistance (including special financial assistance) to victims of crime are not intended to reflect the level of compensation to which victims of crime may be entitled at common law or otherwise.

VOCAT Guideline 3 of 2021- Financial Assistance for Funeral Expenses

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 22:08:04 +0000

VOCAT Guideline 3 of 2021- Financial Assistance for Funeral Expenses suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 08:08

Abstract

Guideline to assist in the determination of the reasonableness of an application for financial assistance for funeral expenses. This Guideline commences from 8 February 2021 and replaces Guideline 3 of 2019.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Guideline 3 of 21 Funeral Expenses_Signed.pdf	113.44 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
VOCAT_Guideline1of2010.pdf	164.32 KB

Attachment	Size
CM Guideline 2 of 2013 - Funeral Expenses.pdf	564.32 KB

Attachment	Size
Funeral Expenses Guideline 3 of 2019 (FINAL).pdf	551.35 KB

Attachment	Size
Funeral Expenses Guideline 3 of 2019 (FINAL).pdf	551.35 KB

Publication Topic

Practice Directions & Guidelines

Published Date

08/02/2021

Updated date

08/02/2021

Guideline Type

Guidelines

Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for counselling expenses

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:48:32 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for counselling expenses suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:48

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to prescribe procedures to assist the Tribunal to determine an application for an award for counselling expenses, and the forms to be lodged with the Tribunal. This Practice Direction replaces 1 of 2021.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Signed Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for Counselling.pdf	359.75 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 2 - Report 5+ hours counselling.doc	118.5 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 3 - Report Further counselling.doc	92 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 4 Application for counselling.doc	67.5 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 5 Counselling and report fee invoice.doc	94 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 1-2022 - Form 1 - Report up to 5 hours counselling.doc	107 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD2-2008_Assessment_Reports (REVOKED).pdf	41.52 KB

Attachment	Size
PD1_2008_Awards_for_counselling_expenses (REVOKED).pdf	101.41 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 9-03 Counselling and Assessment (REVOKED).pdf	40.75 KB

Attachment	Size
PD2-99 Psychological fees for counselling services (REVOKED).pdf	8.46 KB

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_Practice Direction 1 of 2014 - Counselling Expenses.pdf	5.49 MB

Publication Topic

Counselling

Published Date

08/02/2021

Updated date

08/02/2021

Practice Direction 7 of 2008 - Directions Heairngs

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:45:09 +0000

Practice Direction 7 of 2008 - Directions Heairngs suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:45

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to provide guidance as to when it is appropriate to conduct a directions hearing.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD7-2008_Directions_Hearings.pdf	26.39 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD4- 03 Directions Hearings (REVOKED).pdf	10.38 KB

Publication Topic

Directions Hearings

Published Date

11/12/2008

Updated date

19/09/2016

Practice Direction 8 of 2008 - Dependency claims

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:39:49 +0000

Practice Direction 8 of 2008 - Dependency claims suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:39

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to specify the procedure to be followed in relation to claims for financial assistance for dependency by a related victim of an act of violence.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD8-2008_Dependency_Claim.pdf	37.26 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD7-03 Dependency claims (REVOKED).pdf	11.38 KB

Publication Topic

Dependency Claim

Published Date

11/12/2008

Updated date

19/09/2016

Practice Direction 2 of 2016 - Extension of Time for Lodgement

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:32:56 +0000

Practice Direction 2 of 2016 - Extension of Time for Lodgement suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:32

Abstract

This Practice Direction revoked PD 6 of 2008 Extension of Time for Lodgement. Post 1 May 2016 this application is captured in the Tribunal's Application for Assistance form.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD 2 of 2016 - Ext of time revocation.pdf	62.46 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD6-2008_Extension_of_Time_for_Lodgement_of_Application (REVOKED).pdf	25.42 KB

Attachment	Size
PD3-03 Extension of Time (REVOKED).pdf	8.45 KB

Publication Topic

Extension of Time

Published Date

30/04/2016

Updated date

19/09/2016

Practice Direction 1 of 2007 - Notification by Tribunal of Potential Related Victims

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:28:53 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2007 - Notification by Tribunal of Potential Related Victims suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:28

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to specify the circumstances in which the registrar of the Tribunal is required to notify potential related victims that they may have an entitlement to make an application to the Tribunal, and the forms to be used when making this notification.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD1-07 Notification by Tribunal to potential related victims (2).pdf	31.38 KB

Publication Topic

Related Victims

Published Date

27/06/2007

Updated date

19/09/2016

Practice Direction 4 of 2022- Koori VOCAT List

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:21:45 +0000

Practice Direction 4 of 2022- Koori VOCAT List suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:21

Abstract

The purpose of this direction is to establish the Koori VOCAT List as an ongoing part of the Tribunal's operations.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Practice Direction No. 4 of 2022.pdf	161.95 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD10-2008_Koori_VOCAT_List (REVOKED).pdf	23.49 KB

Attachment	Size
PD3_2008 Koori VOCAT List (REVOKED).pdf	16.67 KB

Attachment	Size
PD2-07 Koori VOCAT List (REVOKED).pdf	20.3 KB

Attachment	Size
PD1-06 Koori VOCAT List (REVOKED).pdf	24.27 KB

Attachment	Size
PD 2 -2009 Koori_VOCAT_List (REVOKED).pdf	20.05 KB

Publication Topic

Koori List

Published Date

30/06/2009

Updated date

10/01/2023

Practice Direction 5 of 2008 - Claims for Loss of Earnings

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:18:18 +0000

Practice Direction 5 of 2008 - Claims for Loss of Earnings suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:18

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to specify the procedure to be followed in relation to claims for financial assistance for loss of earnings.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD5-2008_Claims_for_Loss_of_Earnings (2).pdf	46.29 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD6-03 Loss of earnings claim (REVOKED) .pdf	11.63 KB

Publication Topic

Loss of Earnings Claim

Published Date

11/12/2008

Updated date

19/09/2016

Practice Direction 1 of 2017 - Response to Applications for Review of Decisions

suzanne.frawley — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 21:07:09 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2017 - Response to Applications for Review of Decisions suzanne.frawley Tue, 20/09/2016 - 07:07

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to note the role of the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal as primary decision maker in any applications for review of its decision to the The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, and specify the procedure to be followed by VOCAT upon receipt of a Notice of Review to VCAT.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Request for Review - PD 1 of 2017.pdf	345.92 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD2-06 Response to request for review (REVOKED) (1).pdf	16.95 KB

Attachment	Size
Request for Review_VOCAT-2009 No 1 (Revoked).pdf	42.98 KB

Publication Topic

Review of Tribunal Decisions

Published Date

18/05/2017

Updated date

08/05/2017

Melbourne - Principal Registry

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 05:09:26 +0000

Melbourne - Principal Registry leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 15:09

Address

Level 5
555 Lonsdale St
Melbourne VIC 3000
Australia

PO Box number

GPO Box 882, Melbourne VIC 3001

Phone Number

1800 882 752

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 4.30 pm

Further Information

Melbourne is the site of VOCAT's Principal Registry.

admin@vocat.vic.gov.au

koori@vocat.vic.gov.au

tribunal.officers@vocat.vic.gov.au

Restriction on Publication

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 04:15:50 +0000

Restriction on Publication leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 14:15

A person cannot publish information about evidence given at a hearing, documents produced at a hearing, or any information likely to identify a party or other person who has appeared at a hearing unless the Tribunal has granted leave for that to occur. It is a criminal offence to publish such information without the Tribunal’s permission.

Section 43 of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 prohibits publication of evidence given or documents produced to the Tribunal and any information likely to identify a party or other person who has appeared at a hearing, except by order of the Tribunal made pursuant to section 43(1) of the Act. The penalties applicable in the event of a breach of the prohibition on publication are significant and include the imposition of a two year term of imprisonment on an individual. The Tribunal may override the prohibition upon the application of a party or on its own initiative, if it is in the public interest to do so (section 43(2) and (1)).

All applications for leave to publish information about a Tribunal application must be made to the Tribunal in writing.

Access to Documents

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 04:03:40 +0000

Access to Documents leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 14:03

The Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 (VOCA Act) allows for any person to inspect and/or copy documents contained on a Tribunal file, except for:

documents that the Tribunal has ordered remain confidential; or
documents that the registrar believes ought to remain confidential without the leave of the Tribunal (where the person seeking to access the documents is not the applicant).

What does ‘access’ mean?

‘Access’ to information/documents contained on a Tribunal file means:

inspection of documents on a file;
obtaining information contained in a document on a file;
obtaining information about the current status or outcome of an application;
taking copies of documents on a file; and
the subpoena of all or part of a file.

Access to information and/or documents contained on a file may be restricted because of a number of legal considerations, including immunity from publication, privilege and statutory protection.

What are ‘classified’ documents?

Classified documents may form part of a Tribunal file and require special treatment. Classified documents for the purpose of requests to access information/documents contained on a Tribunal file include:

medical, psychological, psychiatric or counselling reports which have been filed on behalf of the applicant;
police briefs and related police documentation, including requests for criminal history information, letters to/from police, emails to/from police;
hospital records; and
other documents not filed by the applicant.

What are ‘non-classified’ documents?

Non-classified documents for the purpose of requests to access information/documents contained on a Tribunal file include:

the Application for Assistance form;
the Statement of Claim form(s);
correspondence to the applicant from the Tribunal; and
copies of any awards of assistance (Award Notices).

Procedure when request made to access non-classified documents

The following table outlines the procedure to be followed when a request is made to access non-classified documents contained on a Tribunal file.

Step	Description
1	Person making request must complete Form 1 Application to access information (Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to files) and file it with the Tribunal
2	If request is made by applicant/applicant’s lawyer, registrar can grant access to the non-classified documents without referring the request to a Tribunal Member If request is made by third party, registrar must obtain the written consent of the applicant If applicant does not consent to access, the request must be referred to a Tribunal Member for directions
3	The registrar will arrange a time for the applicant/applicant’s lawyer/third party to access the information/documents Unless otherwise ordered by a Tribunal Member, all applicants requesting access to information/documents contained on a Tribunal file must sign an undertaking in Form 3 – Undertaking by media representative– the signed undertaking must be kept on the relevant Tribunal file (Practice Direction 1 of 2015 – Access to files)

Procedure when request made to access classified documents

The following table outlines the procedure to be followed when a request is made to access classified documents contained on a Tribunal file.

Please note that the majority of requests to access information/documents contained on a Tribunal file will include classified-documents.

Step	Description
1	Person making request must complete Form 1 –Application to access information (Practice Direction 1 of 2015 – Access to files) and file it with the Tribunal
2	The registrar may grant access to the classified documents (except medical, psychological, psychiatric or counsellor reports) with the consent of the owner or author of the document If the owner or author of the document does not consent to access, the request must be referred to a Tribunal Member for advice as to whether a directions hearing should be listed All requests to access medical, psychological, psychiatric or counsellor reports must be referred to a Tribunal Member for advice as to whether they think the document should be released If the police object to the access to the police brief and related police documents because of ongoing investigations or criminal proceedings, a directions hearing will not usually be listed until after the investigations or criminal proceedings are completed
3	The registrar will arrange a time for the applicant/applicant’s lawyer/third party to access the information/documents Unless otherwise ordered by a Tribunal Member, all applicants requesting access to information/documents contained on a Tribunal file must sign an undertaking in Form 3 – Undertaking by media representative (Practice Direction 1 of 2015 – Access to files)

The access to information and/or documents contained on a Tribunal file will be at a time agreed with the registrar. Documents and material contained on a Tribunal file may not be photocopied without the permission of the Tribunal.

Subpoenas

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:59:19 +0000

Subpoenas leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:59

A subpoena (sometimes referred to as a summons) is a document issued by a Court or Tribunal once legal proceedings have commenced.

The subpoena requires the person or organisation that it has been served on to deliver to the court the documents described in the subpoena.

Sometimes the subpoena might require the person or organisation that it has been served on to attend a court hearing and give evidence.

Subpoenas to be served on the Principal Registrar of the Tribunal

All subpoenas in relation to the Tribunal should be served on the Principal Registrar of the Tribunal, addressed as follows:

Principal Registrar

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal

Level 5, 555 Lonsdale Street

Melbourne VIC 3000

Time for responding to a subpoena

The Tribunal requests that parties serving subpoenas on the Tribunal provide at least seven business days in which to respond to the subpoena.

Restriction on Publication

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:57:40 +0000

Restriction on Publication leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:57

All applications for leave to publish information about a Tribunal application must be made to the Tribunal in writing.

Recordings of Proceedings

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:56:16 +0000

Recordings of Proceedings leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:56

All hearings conducted within the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal are digitally recorded. If you wish to obtain a copy of the recordings you will need to contact the relevant Tribunal venue and speak to the VOCAT registrar of that Tribunal.

The Tribunal retains all recordings for a period of 12 months from the date of hearing. If a party to the proceeding, being the applicant or their legal representative (or any other person or organisation who has received special permission) has requested the recording, they are retained for a period of 2 years from the date of hearing.

Only parties to the Tribunal proceedings are permitted to obtain a copy of the recording. If any other party wishes to obtain a copy of the recording, a written request is to be forwarded for consideration by the Tribunal.

Tribunal staff endeavour to attend to all audio copy requests expeditiously, however you will have to contact the relevant venue to ascertain how long it will take to fulfil your request.

Access to Documents

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:39:31 +0000

Access to Documents

leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:39

The Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 (the Act) allows for any person to inspect and/or copy documents contained on a Tribunal file, except for:

documents that the Tribunal has ordered remain confidential; or
documents that the registrar believes ought to remain confidential without the leave of the Tribunal (where the person seeking to access the documents is not the applicant).

What does ‘access’ mean?

‘Access’ to information/documents contained on a Tribunal file means:

inspection of documents on a file;
obtaining information contained in a document on a file;
obtaining information about the current status or outcome of an application;
taking copies of documents on a file; and
the subpoena of all or part of a file.

Access to information and/or documents contained on a file may be restricted because of a number of legal considerations, including immunity from publication, privilege and statutory protection.

What are ‘classified’ documents?

medical, psychological, psychiatric or counselling reports which have been filed on behalf of the applicant;
police briefs of evidence and related police documentation, including requests for criminal history information, correspondence between police and the Tribunal;
hospital records; and
other documents not filed by the applicant.

What are ‘non-classified’ documents?

Non-classified documents for the purpose of requests to access information/documents contained on a Tribunal file include:

the Application for Assistance form;
the Statement of Claim form(s);
correspondence to the applicant from the Tribunal; and
copies of any awards of assistance (Award Notices).

Procedure when request made to access non-classified documents

The following table outlines the procedure to be followed when a request is made to access non-classified documents contained on a Tribunal file.

Step	Description
1	Person making request must complete Form 1- Application to access information (Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to files) and file it with the Tribunal
2	If request is made by applicant/applicant’s lawyer, a registrar can grant access to the non-classified documents without referring the request to a Tribunal Member If request is made by third party, a registrar must obtain the written consent of the applicant If applicant does not consent to access, the request must be referred to a Tribunal Member for directions
3	The registrar will arrange a time for the applicant/applicant’s lawyer/third party to access the information/documents Unless otherwise ordered by a Tribunal Member, all applicants requesting access to information/documents contained on a Tribunal file must sign an undertaking in Form 2 – Undertaking or Form 3 – Undertaking by media representative – the signed undertaking must be kept on the relevant Tribunal file(Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to files).

Procedure when request made to access classified documents

The following table outlines the procedure to be followed when a request is made to access classified documents contained on a Tribunal file. Please note that the majority of requests to access information/documents contained on a Tribunal file will include classified-documents.

Step	Description
1	Person making request must complete Form 1 – Application to access information (Practice Direction 4 of 2021 – Access to files) and file it with the Tribunal
2	The registrar may grant access to the classified documents (except medical, psychological, psychiatric or counsellor reports) with the consent of the owner or author of the document If the owner or author of the document does not consent to access, the request must be referred to a Tribunal Member for advice as to whether a directions hearing should be listed All requests to access medical, psychological, psychiatric or counsellor reports must be referred to a Tribunal Member for advice as to whether they think the document should be released If the police object to the access to the police brief and related police documents because of ongoing investigations or criminal proceedings, a directions hearing will not usually be listed until after the investigations or criminal proceedings are completed
3	The registrar will arrange a time for the applicant/applicant’s lawyer/third party to access the information/documents Unless otherwise ordered by a Tribunal Member, all applicants requesting access to information/documents contained on a Tribunal file must sign an undertaking in Form 2 – Undertaking or Form 3 – Undertaking by media representative (Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to files).

Access to Documents and Material

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:35:30 +0000

Access to Documents and Material

leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:35

This section contains information about the processes that must be followed when an applicant, an applicant’s legal representative or a third party seeks to access information or documents contained on a tribunal file or a recording of a tribunal hearing. Also covered in this section is information regarding restrictions on the publication of Tribunal material and the process to be followed for subpoenas served on the Tribunal.

Access to Documents

Recordings of Proceedings

Restriction on Publication

Subpoenas

Contact details

Further information may be obtained from:

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal – Principal Registry

Level 5, 555 Lonsdale St
Melbourne VIC 3000

Tel: 1800 882 752
Email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

GPO Box 882
Melbourne VIC 3001

Awards held on Trust

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:17:54 +0000

Awards held on Trust leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:17

A Tribunal Member must make an order that an award of assistance be held on trust where the applicant is under a 'legal disability'. This might be because they:

have had an accident, injury or illness; and/or
have an intellectual or physical disability (or both); and/or
are under 18.

A Tribunal Member may also make an order that an award of assistance be held on trust where they consider that the applicant is unfit to manage their own affairs.

Awards of assistance to be held on trust are paid to the Senior Master of the Supreme Court of Victoria (Funds in Court) for investing. Interest is accrued from the date the award is invested until funds are released to the applicant.

Funds in Court will hold funds on trust for a minor until they reach the age of 18 years, at which point Funds in Court will consider releasing the funds to the applicant. In considering release, the Senior Master will have regard to the applicant’s capacity to manage the funds.

In the case of a person under a physical or mental disability, Funds in Court may hold those funds on trust until further order.

An applicant may make application to Funds in Court, Supreme Court of Victoria for release of some or all of their funds prior to them attaining the age of 18 years, or at any time if the funds were directed to be held until further order. Further information regarding applications to funds in Court can be found on the Funds in Court Website.

The contact details for the Funds in Court Office are:

Level 5, 469 La Trobe Street

Melbourne VIC 3000

Tel: 1300 039 390

Fax: 1300 039 388

E-mail: requests@fundsincourt.vic.gov.au

Web: www.fundsincourt.vic.gov.au

Payment to Service Providers

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:11:41 +0000

Payment to Service Providers leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:11

From 18 November 2024, the Tribunal can only accept invoices/receipts for payment of authorised future expenses for current pending applications for assistance.

All invoices/receipts for finalised Tribunal applications for assistance must be filed with the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS). More information about the FAS, including how to file invoices/receipts, can be located on their website at www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

Form of Payment

An award of assistance may be made payable to the applicant or to any other person for the benefit of the applicant. It may be paid:

wholly as a lump sum;
or partly as a lump sum and partly by instalments;
or wholly by instalments.

The Tribunal may specify any terms and conditions to be complied with before any instalment is paid. Amounts awarded to a victim for expenses not yet incurred (for example, future medical expenses or counselling) are only payable on the submission of an invoice or receipt relating to that expense.

Awards of financial assistance for expenses not yet incurred

The Tribunal may also make an award for expenses that have not yet been incurred, but which are reasonably likely to be incurred in the future as a direct result of a violent crime. In determining the amount to award for future expenses the Tribunal may rely upon a quotation from the nominated service provider however amounts of financial assistance awarded for expenses not yet incurred will only be paid by the Tribunal on the submission of an invoice or receipt relating to the expense. For further information regarding the difference between quotes and invoices visit the Invoices page.

Examples of such expenses include future counselling sessions or surgery, or the installation of a home security system to assist the victim in their recovery from the violent crime. The Tribunal will not pay for such expenses until the services or goods have been provided to the applicant, and an invoice or receipt is filed with the Tribunal.

Financial assistance awarded for expenses not yet incurred by an applicant may not be paid for some time after being awarded, or may not be paid at all if the victim does not avail themselves of the services for which financial assistance was awarded. For example, while financial assistance for ten future counselling sessions may have been awarded, a victim may find that five sessions are adequate. In this circumstance, the Tribunal would only pay for five counselling sessions.

Any assistance not paid to, or for the benefit of, a person within 6 years after the awarding of that assistance will cease to be payable.

The Tribunal requires a valid tax invoice from agent (e.g. a counsellor/health professional/supplier) before it can process an award of assistance

A valid tax, in accordance with A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999, invoices must contain:

Invoice less than $1,000:	Invoice of $1,000 or more
The words ‘tax invoice’ stated prominently The name and address of the supplier The ABN of the supplier The date of issue of the tax invoice A brief description of the goods or services sold; and Quantity or extent of service The total price of the sales (including GST)	The words ‘tax invoice’ stated prominently The name and address of the supplier The ABN of the supplier The name of the recipient The address or ABN of the recipient The date of issue of the tax invoice The quantity of the goods or the extent of the services sold A brief description of the goods and services sold; and The total price of the sale (including GST)

Australian Business Numbers listed on invoices

The Tribunal’s awards of financial assistance are processed using Court Services Victoria systems. These systems will not allow payment to be made to a supplier/service provider where:

the supplier/service provider does not have an Australian Business Number (ABN); or
the business name provided by the supplier/service provider is inconsistent with the business name registered against the ABN.

Process once award is made

Once an award for financial assistance has been made by the Tribunal the award will be entered on to the Tribunal’s electronic database. Notification of the award may then be generated and a copy of the award notices will be sent to the applicant/their legal representative and relevant service providers. Payment will generally be made by cheque unless a request is made for an award to be deposited directly into a nominated bank account.

Service providers who regularly invoice and receive payment from the Tribunal may elect to have their payments made via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to a nominated bank account. Service providers should contact the Tribunal for further information about this payment method.

Payment via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

If advised prior to the finalisation of an award for financial assistance, the Tribunal may directly deposit the award into a nominated bank account. Please contact the venue of the Tribunal managing your application for further information.

Estimated payment timeframes

Given the number of awards of financial assistance made by the Tribunal, it can take up to six weeks from the time an award of financial assistance is made and award notices are sent, to the time the cheque is dispatched.

Cheques are dispatched centrally by the Court Services Victoria Finance Office on a weekly basis. Where an applicant has nominated for direct deposit into a bank account via EFT transfer, payment may be received within 48 hours of the award being processed by the Tribunal’s Finance Department. Cheque dispatch and EFT Transfers may not occur for up to six weeks from when the award is made by the Tribunal.

What happens if payment is not received

If payment of an award is not received within six weeks of the award being made, please contact the relevant venue of the Tribunal

Payment to Victims

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:07:39 +0000

Payment to Victims leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:07

From 18 November 2024, the Tribunal can only accept invoices/receipts for payment of authorised future expenses for current pending applications for assistance.

Form of payment

An award of assistance may be made payable to the applicant or to any other person for the benefit of the applicant. It may be paid:

wholly as a lump sum; or
partly as a lump sum and partly by instalments; or
wholly by installments.

The Tribunal may specify any terms and conditions to be complied with before any instalment is paid.

Amounts awarded to a victim for expenses not yet incurred (for example, future medical expenses or counselling) are only payable on the submission of an invoice or receipt relating to that expense.

Awards of financial assistance for expenses not yet incurred

The Tribunal may also make an award for expenses that have not yet been incurred, but which are reasonably likely to be incurred in the future as a direct result of a violent crime. In determining the amount to award for future expenses the Tribunal may rely upon a quotation from the nominated service provider however, amounts of financial assistance awarded for expenses not yet incurred will only be paid by the Tribunal on the submission of an invoice or receipt relating to the expense. For further information regarding the difference between quotes and invoices visit the Invoices page.

Any assistance not paid to, or for the benefit of, a person within 6 years after the awarding of that assistance will cease to be payable.

Process once award is made

Once an award for financial assistance has been made by the Tribunal the award will be entered on to the Tribunal’s electronic database. Notification of the award may then be generated and a copy of the award notices will be sent to the applicant/their legal representative. Payment will generally be made by cheque unless a request is made for an award to be deposited directly into a nominated bank account.

Payment via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

Estimated payment timeframes

Change of address details

Applicants should ensure that the Tribunal is notified of any change of address prior to the finalisation of an award. The venue of the Tribunal managing the application should be notified in writing of any changes in contact and address information.

What happens if payment is not received

If payment of an award is not received within six weeks of the award being made, please contact the relevant venue of the Tribunal.

Invoices

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:00:42 +0000

Invoices leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 11:00

An award of financial assistance for expenses incurred may only be paid out upon submission of an invoice or receipt.

From 18 November 2024, the Tribunal can only accept invoices/receipts for payment of authorised future expenses for current pending applications for assistance.

Difference between quotes and invoices

It is important to note the difference between quotes and invoices.

Quote: The current price of goods; an estimate of costs given in advance of work being done.

Invoice: An itemised list of goods purchased, with details of their quantities and prices, sent to the buyer to document the total charge.

Valid Invoice

The Tribunal requires a valid tax invoice from the service provider (e.g. a counsellor/health professional/supplier) before it can process and pay an award of assistance.

A valid tax invoice in accordance with A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 must contain:

Invoice less than $1,000:	Invoice of $1,000 or more:
The words ‘tax invoice’ stated prominently The name and address of the supplier The ABN of the supplier The date of issue of the tax invoice A brief description of the goods or services sold; and Quantity or extent of service The total price of the sales (including GST)	The words ‘tax invoice’ stated prominently The name and address of the supplier The ABN of the supplier The name of the recipient The address or ABN of the recipient The date of issue of the tax invoice The quantity of the goods or the extent of the services sold A brief description of the goods and services sold; and The total price of the sale (including GST)

Australian Business Numbers listed on invoices

The Tribunal’s awards of financial assistance are processed using Court Services Victoria (CSV) systems. These systems will not allow payment to be made to a supplier/service provider where:

the supplier/service provider does not have an Australian Business Number (ABN); or
the business name provided by the supplier/service provider is inconsistent with the business name registered against the ABN.

Administration of the Koori VOCAT List

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:50:21 +0000

Administration of the Koori VOCAT List leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:50

Applicants included in the Koori VOCAT List

The Koori VOCAT List is a specialist list within the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal which manages applications made by victims of crime who are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Origin. A person of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin means a person who is descended from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander; and is accepted as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island community.

Where is the Koori VOCAT List administered

The Koori VOCAT List is administered from the Tribunal’s Principal Registry at Melbourne. All applications for financial assistance made by a person identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander are lodged at the Tribunal’s Principal Registry at Melbourne for inclusion in the Koori VOCAT List.

The exceptions to this are:

applications that fall within the jurisdiction of the Family Violence Court Division of the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria at Ballarat and Heidelberg; or
applications that fall within the jurisdiction of the Neighbourhood Justice Centre Division of the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria at Collingwood.

Koori VOCAT List Registrar

All applications in the Koori VOCAT List are managed by the Koori VOCAT List Registrar, who is located at the Tribunal’s Principal Registry at Melbourne.

The Koori VOCAT List Registrar is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Koori VOCAT List and file management of all applications within the List.

Contacting the Koori List Registrar

The Koori VOCAT List Registrar may be contacted at the Tribunal's Principal Registry on 8615 3879 or Toll Free 1800 882 752.

The list also has a separate email address at koori@vocat.vic.gov.au

Hearing procedure and venue

The Tribunal promotes flexible practices in relation to Koori VOCAT List applications which are required to be listed for a hearing, including listing applications at a Tribunal venue more convenient to the applicant’s place of residence. This applies to directions hearings, applications which are ready to be listed for final determination, and applications for interim or variation awards.

Where appropriate, the use of technology will be used to facilitate the hearing of Koori VOCAT List applications, including the use of video conferencing from remote locations.

In listing an application for hearing, the Tribunal will ask the applicant to indicate:

their preference for the venue of the hearing; and
whether any alternative arrangements are sought; including alternative arrangements for attendance at the hearing by video link or for the giving of evidence by remote witness facility.

Hearings will be listed in accordance with the applicant’s wishes if the Tribunal considers that such listing is practicable in all the circumstances.

Further information regarding the development and current operation of the Koori VOCAT List is outlined in the Koori List Information Sheet and Report Koori VOCAT List Pilot – Review and Recommendations Report

Koori Victims of Crime

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:46:27 +0000

Koori Victims of Crime

leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:46

The Koori VOCAT List has been operating within the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal since 2006. It developed as an initiative of several Tribunal members and registrars who, through their involvement with the Koori community, were aware that the Tribunal was not receiving the number of applications for assistance by Koori victims of crime they would have expected.

The Koori VOCAT List was the Tribunal’s attempt to understand why this was happening, to become involved with the Koori community, and to try and develop procedures that would increase the number of Koori victims of crime accessing their entitlements under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996.

The Tribunal realised that, while it maintained a large volume of statistics about the applications it received, it did not have any information about applications by Koori victims of crime. It did not know where these applications were coming from, how many it was receiving (if any), whether applicants had legal representation, or whether victimisation between Koori and non-Koori people differed. Importantly, the Tribunal did not know the nature of Koori victims’ experiences and/or their concerns as victims of crime.

To address this, the Tribunal organised a series of community forums to invite discussion about the Tribunal’s response to Koori victims of crime, to understand the experiences and concerns of Koori victims of crime and to build a relationship between the Tribunal and the Koori community. The forums took place in 2004 and 2006 and led to the inclusion of an Indigenous identifier question on the Tribunal’s Application for Assistance form, enabling it to gather statistics about applications by Koori victims of crime, and to the introduction of the Koori VOCAT List.

The Koori VOCAT List commenced operation as a 2-year pilot project from 1 July 2006, and was subsequently extended as a pilot until 30 June 2009.

On 20 December 2022, the Chief Magistrate issued Practice Direction 4 of 2022 – Koori VOCAT List, which confirmed that the Koori VOCAT List will continue as an ongoing part of the Tribunal’s operations.

Further information regarding the development and current operation of the Koori VOCAT List is outlined in the Koori List Information Sheet, Report Koori VOCAT List Pilot – Review and Recommendations Report and under the Administration of the Koori List.

Contact:

VOCAT Koori List Engagement Registrar

Phone: (03) 9651 7178

Email: Koori@vocat.vic.gov.au

Additional resources and contacts:

Umalek Balit

Koori Family Violence and Victim's Support Program

Phone: (03) 7004 9779

Email: csv.kfv@courts.vic.gov.au

Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency - VACCA

Phone: (03) 9287 8800

Email: vacca@vacca.org

Dhumbumana Healing Strategy 2021– 23

The Dhumbumana Healing Strategy is focused on continuous improvement within the VOCAT Koori List and enhancing VOCAT’s capacity to engage with Koori communities and assist in their journey to healing.
Dhumbumana (pron: thum‐boo‐mah‐nah) is a traditional word from the language of the Wurundjeri people, meaning help.
VOCAT will use the Dhumbumana Healing Strategy to better support Koori applicants and deliver a targeted outreach program to improve our engagement with local Koori communities.
The strategy will enable VOCAT to:

increase awareness of VOCAT as a culturally specific financial assistance scheme for Koori victims of crime
recognise and reduce barriers to accessing VOCAT
better understand how Koori people use our services
improve our current practices to better promote cultural safety
better support Koori victims of crime during VOCAT hearings.

The cultural support provided by the Dhumbumana Healing Strategy will put greater emphasis on Koori applicants’ physical, psychological and emotional safety throughout the VOCAT process. The strategy will also enable referrals to legal and family violence support services in the community, as well as other support agencies where appropriate.

The strategy creates opportunities for Koori applicants who have been affected by trauma to regain a sense of empowerment and control over their lives. It promotes reconnecting with culture to assist in establishing pathways back to country to heal spiritually.

Further information about the Dhumbumana Healing Strategy can be found at Dhumbumana Healing Strategy | Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (vocat.vic.gov.au)

Alternatively, please contact:
VOCAT Koori List Engagement Registrar
Phone: (03) 9651 7178
Email: koori@vocat.vic.gov.au

Reviewing a Decision

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:42:33 +0000

Reviewing a Decision leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:42

Review of a Tribunal Member Decision

An applicant (or a person whose interests are affected by the decision of VOCAT) may apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for review of a final decision of the Tribunal. An application for review may be filed against a decision of the Tribunal:

Refusing to make an award of assistance;
Determining the amount of assistance;
Refusing to vary an award;
Determining the amount of assistance on an application to vary the award; or
Determining that a person is required to make a refund, or the amount of that refund.

Applications for review may only be made against a final decision of the Tribunal; applications for review cannot be made in relation to the Tribunal’s decision regarding interim financial assistance.

Times frames for making a review application- Tribunal Member

An application for review must be made in writing to VCAT within 28 days of:

The date on which the final decision was made; or
The date upon which the applicant is given a statement of reasons for the decision (pursuant to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 1998).

VCAT has discretion to grant an applicant leave to apply for review outside the 28 day time limit in circumstances it considers appropriate.

In a review proceeding, VCAT has all the functions of the original decision-maker (i.e. VOCAT) and has power to:

affirm VOCAT’s order;
vary or set aside VOCAT’s decision;
make another decision in substitution of VOCAT’s decision; or
remit the matter to VOCAT for reconsideration.

Further information

For further information on the review process, including the cost of lodging the appeal, contact VCAT at:

Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT)

General List

55 King Street

Melbourne Vic 3000

Phone: 1300 01 8228

http://www.vcat.vic.gov.au/

Review of a Judicial Registrar or Tribunal Officer Decision

An applicant may make an application for review to the Tribunal against any of the following final decisions of a Judicial Registrar or Tribunal Officer as a delegate of the Tribunal (applications for review cannot be made against an interim decision):

refusing to make an award of assistance;
determining the amount of assistance awarded;
refusing to vary an award of assistance;
determining the amount of assistance awarded on variation;
determining that a person is required to make a refund of assistance awarded; or
determining the amount of that refund.

A review of a final decision of a Judicial Registrar or Tribunal Officer is conducted as a hearing de novo – a hearing de novo is a fresh consideration of the application for assistance.

Time-limit for making an application for review of a JR or TO Decision

An applicant may apply to review the final decision of a Judicial Registrar or Tribunal Officer within 14 days of the decision. The Application for Review of Decision of Judicial Registrar (Form 2) or Application for Review of Tribunal Officer (Form 3) must be accompanied by an affidavit in support outlining the grounds for review. An applicant will have an opportunity to file any additional material they wish to rely upon within 28 days of the application for review being filed.

The application for review is treated as a fresh hearing of the original application for assistance. Upon review, the Tribunal may either refuse the application for review or make its own decision in substitution for the original order.

The review by a Tribunal member may be determined on the material provided in support of the application without the need for a hearing. However, if the Tribunal member considers a hearing necessary, the applicant must be advised of the date and time set for the hearing.

Unless the Tribunal otherwise orders, lodging an application for review of a Judicial Registrar or Tribunal Officer decision does not operate to stay the decision made by the original decision maker.

Further information regarding Judicial Registrar and Tribunal Officer reviews can be obtained by contacting the registrar at your local Tribunal.

Outcomes

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:40:36 +0000

Outcomes leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:40

Time taken to determine applications for assistance

The time taken to finalise an application for financial assistance will vary between applications. In determining an application, the Tribunal is required by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 and procedural fairness to have regard to certain matters, which impact on the time taken to finalise an application.

Before finalising an application, a Tribunal member may determine that it is appropriate to await the outcome of a criminal investigation, trial or inquest; may request that further enquiries be made or that the alleged offender be notified of the application, or decide that they will wait for an injury to stabilise so that an accurate prognosis can be provided to the Tribunal. In applications for financial assistance by related victims of an act of violence, time may be required to identify and communicate with all potential related victims of a deceased primary victim to advise them of their possible right to apply to the Tribunal for financial assistance. It is also the Tribunal’s practice to await the readiness of all applications prior to finalising related victim matters.

After an application for financial assistance has been lodged, the applicant will be required to provide all documentation upon which they intend to rely in support of their claim. Applicants are automatically provided three months to provide this information; however, the Tribunal commonly receives requests from applicants and/or their legal representatives for further time for the filing of material. At times, the Tribunal receives no material in support of a claim. In these circumstances, an applicant will be provided with a number of opportunities for the material to be filed. If no response is subsequently received from the applicant, the claim may be struck out. Where requested, an application can be reinstated once an applicant has filed material in support of their claim.

Notification of decision

Once the Tribunal has made its decision, the applicant will be notified in writing.

It is important that the Tribunal is advised promptly of any change in postal details.

Hearings

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:39:12 +0000

Hearings

leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:39

The Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 provides flexibility in the manner in which applications for financial assistance can be determined by the Tribunal. It does this by providing applicants with the opportunity to appear before a Tribunal member or to have their applications determined in their absence, and provides an opportunity for victims to give voice to the impact of the crime and to receive acknowledgement and validation of their trauma through a hearing process.

The majority of applications are determined by a judicial officer ‘on the papers’, that is, without a hearing. Where applications are straight-forward, this is the most efficient and timely mechanism for the determination of applications for financial assistance.

Where an applicant elects to attend a hearing, the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 allows the Tribunal to operate in a way that is demonstrably victim-centred. At its best, this system operates in a way that optimises both the symbolic and practical assistance available to victims of crime by validating their experiences of trauma, addressing the financial impact of the crime, and in providing financial assistance directed at best achieving that individual victim’s recovery from the crime.

Despite a request for an application to be determined without a hearing, the Tribunal may decide to conduct a hearing of an application if it is not satisfied, based on the material on file, that an act of violence has occurred. In these circumstances, the Tribunal will require evidence at the hearing. The Tribunal may also decide to adjourn its final decision regarding an application for financial assistance to await the outcome of the prosecution for the act of violence.

Notifying the Offender

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:37:21 +0000

Notifying the Offender leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:37

Where there is no prosecution, or where the criminal charge(s) have been dismissed or withdrawn the Tribunal may have to conduct an investigation to determine whether it is satisfied that the act of violence occurred. While this rarely occurs, the Tribunal may consider notifying the alleged offender to provide them with an opportunity to appear at a hearing to contest the allegations made.

The Tribunal is always mindful of the potential discomfort and additional distress caused to applicants in the relatively few matters where an alleged offender is notified of an application. The applicant is advised, as required by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996, if the Tribunal is considering notifying the alleged offender and is always given an opportunity to make submissions in opposition. Moreover, the Tribunal is able to limit the distress likely to be caused by an alleged offender attending a hearing by making orders for alternative arrangements, for instance, enabling evidence to be given via video link or allowing a support person to be present with the applicant.

Process for notification of the alleged offender

The Tribunal will advise the applicant/solicitor in writing that notification is being considered. If an objection to the notification is lodged, the Tribunal Member will consider all relevant matters and make a decision as to whether the alleged offender will be notified.

If notification is still to take place, the applicant/solicitor will first be advised of this in writing allowing twenty one days to advise whether the claim is still to be pursued. If the applicant/solicitor still wishes to pursue the claim, or no response is received, notification will be sent to the alleged offender.

If no response is received from the alleged offender, the application will be listed and the applicant/solicitor will be advised that the alleged offender will not be attending. If the alleged offender elects to be notified of the hearing, the application will be listed for a Directions Hearing.

Practice Direction 4 of 2008 - Notification of alleged offenders and third parties sets out the process of the Tribunal for the notification of an Alleged Offender.

Supporting Documentation

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:18:55 +0000

Supporting Documentation leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:18

Once an application is received, the Tribunal will write to the applicant or their solicitor acknowledging receipt of the application, and providing instructions on what to do next.

The Tribunal requests that the applicant file all documentation in support of their application and a completed Statement of Claim form within three months of the date of this letter. The applicant must notify the Tribunal in writing within this time that the application is ready to proceed or the application may be struck out.

If more than three months is required, the applicant may make a request in writing to the Tribunal outlining what material is still outstanding and how much time they require to obtain it. The Tribunal can then extend the period for which all material must be filed.

The below table outlines the documentation that should be filed with the Tribunal in relation to each type of expense claimed, in addition to a completed statement of claim form.

Assistance Claimed	Documents to be filed in support of claim
Special Financial Assistance	Application should include: • evidence that the applicant has experienced or is suffering a significant adverse effect (e.g. medical/psychological report) (evidence may be given at a hearing).
Counselling Expenses	Application should include: • a completed Application for Counselling form, • a relevant Counsellor's Report and a • Counselling and Report Fee Invoice. See information contained in the Counselling Expenses section and Practice Direction 1/2021 - Awards for Counselling Expenses
Medical Expenses	Application should include: • a report from a medical practitioner/dentist linking the treatment provided/proposed to the injury sustained by the applicant (the report should detail the proposed treatment plan); and • receipts, invoices or quotes substantiating the expense claimed (may also include ambulance expenses).
Safety-related Expenses (primary victims only)	Application should include: • a receipt, invoice or quote substantiating the safety-related expense(s) claimed (e.g. an invoice from home security company, locksmith etc, or a quote if the expense has not yet been incurred).
Other Expenses to Assist Recovery	Application should include: • a receipt, invoice or quote substantiating the other expense claimed (e.g. an invoice from the home security company, locksmith etc, or a quote if the expense has not yet been incurred).
Clothing Worn at Time of Act of Violence	Application should include an: • invoice, receipt or quote for the cost of replacing the clothing; or • a statutory declaration detailing the cost of the clothing lost or damaged (value of replacement clothing must be equivalent to the value of damaged clothes).
Loss of Earnings	Application should include: • a completed Loss of Earnings Claim form (loss of earnings of up to $20,000 may be awarded to primary victims and some secondary victims); • advice in writing detailing number of days/weeks absent from work, reason for period of absence, and gross loss of earnings (including how gross loss was calculated); • medical report/certificate linking the applicant’s total or partial incapacity to work to their injury; • documentation verifying WorkCover payments, Transport Accident Commission payments, Social Security payments, any other payments (if any) received by the applicant for their injury; and • if applicant is self-employed, tax returns for the three financial years before the act of violence occurred and the financial years for the loss of earnings claim period. See Practice Direction 5/2008 – Claims for Loss of Earnings
Funeral Expenses	Application should include: • a receipt, invoice or quote from the funeral service substantiating the expense claimed. See Guideline 3/2021- Financial Assistance for Funeral Expenses
Distress	Application should include: • evidence of the applicant’s relationship to the deceased primary victim; and • evidence that the applicant has suffered grief, distress or trauma as a direct result of the deceased primary victim’s death (evidence may be given at a hearing).
Dependency Claims	Application should include (related victims only): • a completed Dependency Claim form; • details of gross pre-death earnings of the deceased (including how earnings were calculated); • documentation verifying WorkCover payments, Transport Accident Commission payments, Social Security payments, any other payments (if any) received by the applicant/deceased’s estate; • tax returns of the applicant/deceased for the three financial years before the death of the primary victim and the financial years for the dependency claim period; • details of the assets and liabilities of the applicant and the estate of the deceased; • details of the financial contributions made by the deceased primary victim to the applicant for the three financial years immediately before the death of the primary victim; and • verification of the relationship between the applicant and the deceased (e.g. spouse, child). See Practice Direction 8/2008-Dependency Claims
Solicitors costs	If you have a solicitor assisting you with your application, they must complete the ‘Amounts Payable to Solicitor’ section of your Statement of Claim form.
Solicitors Disbursements	Application should include: • receipts and invoices for solicitors disbursements claimed.

Financial assistance for expenses not yet incurred

The Tribunal may award financial assistance for expenses actually incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred in the future. Expenses reasonably likely to be incurred in the future are referred to as authorised future expenses.

The Tribunal may rely on quotes for goods and services in determining the amount of financial assistance to award for an expense that has not yet been incurred.

In awarding financial assistance for expenses not yet incurred, the Tribunal will set an amount of financial assistance that is not to be exceeded.

When can payment be made for future authorised expenses?

Amounts awarded to an applicant for expenses not yet incurred are only payable on the submission of an invoice or receipt relating to the particular expense.

Difference between quotes and invoices

It is important to note the difference between quotes and invoices. An invoice is an itemised list of goods purchased, with details of their quantities and prices, sent to the buyer to document the total charge. Payment will not be made on submission of a quote, which is the current price of goods; an estimate of costs given in advance of work being done.

Investigative powers of the Tribunal

If the Tribunal requires further information to enable it to determine an application, it may

authorise a person to make any enquiry or carry out any investigation necessary to provide the Tribunal with the required information; or
order preparation/submission of a medical/or counselling report from an independent medical practitioner or counsellor; or
order the applicant to lodge an additional statement containing particulars of matters/documents specified in the order.

Registrars of the Tribunal have very wide powers to obtain information in relation to an application for financial assistance with the Tribunal. Failure to comply with the Tribunal’s request for information will result in delays in the finalisation of an application for financial assistance.

Eligibility Issues

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:16:31 +0000

Eligibility Issues leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:16

In determining whether or not to make an award of financial assistance, or the amount of financial assistance to award, the Tribunal must have regard to:

whether the crime was reported to police within a reasonable time
the assistance provided by the applicant to police to investigate or prosecute the alleged crime
the conduct and attitude of the applicant prior to, during and after the crime
the character of the applicant, including past criminal activity
whether the offender will benefit from an award of financial assistance made to the applicant
any damages that the applicant has recovered from the offender
any compensation, assistance or payment that the applicant has received, or is entitled to receive, from other sources such as WorkCover, the Transport Accident Commission and insurance schemes.

The Tribunal must refuse to make an award of assistance if satisfied that:

the violent crime was not reported to police within a reasonable time; or
the applicant failed to provide reasonable assistance to any person investigating the act of violence, in the arrest or prosecution of any person by whom the act of violence was allegedly committed unless the Tribunal considers that special circumstances exist.

In considering whether the act of violence was reported to the police within a reasonable time, the Tribunal may have regard to any matters that it considers relevant, including:

the age of the victim at the time of the occurrence of the violent crime;
whether the victim is intellectually disabled within the meaning of the Disability Act 2006 or mentally ill within the meaning of the Mental Health Act 1986;
whether the person who committed, or is alleged to have committed, the violent crime was in a position of power, influence or trust in relation to the victim;
whether the victim was threatened or intimidated by the person who committed, or is alleged to have committed, the violent crime or any other person; or
the nature of the injury alleged to have been suffered by the victim.

“Special circumstances” are not defined in the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996; however the Tribunal has held such circumstances to mean “out of the common run” or “out of the ordinary.” Whether “special circumstances” are found to exist will depend on the facts of the particular application.

The Tribunal must also refuse to make an award if:

the application is made in collusion with the person who is alleged to have committed the violent crime; or
an earlier application for assistance has been made by the applicant arising from the same act of violence, whether or not it has been determined.

Other matters to which the Tribunal must have regard in the case of an application by a related victim:

The character and behaviour of the deceased primary victim;
Any obligations owed to the applicant and any other related victim applicants by the deceased primary victim;
The financial resources (including earning capacity) and financial needs of the applicant and any other related victim applicants;
If the related victim is a close family member of, or had an intimate personal relationship with, the deceased primary victim, the nature of the relationship between them; and
Any other circumstances that the Tribunal considers relevant.

Was there an Injury?

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:14:22 +0000

Was there an Injury? leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:14

In order for the Tribunal to award financial assistance, it must be satisfied that the applicant has suffered an injury. The Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 defines injury as:

actual physical bodily harm (e.g. physical injury); or
mental illness or disorder or an exacerbation of a mental illness or disorder, whether or not flowing from nervous shock (e.g. psychological injury); or
pregnancy; or
any combination of these matters arising from an act of violence.

If in respect of an application under the Act by a primary or a secondary victim the Tribunal is satisfied on medical or psychological evidence that treatment or counselling is required as a result of trauma associated with the act of violence, the person concerned is deemed for the purpose of the Act to have suffered an injury.

After an application for financial assistance has been lodged, a registrar will request the applicant to file all documentation upon which they intend to rely in support of their application.

If a person is applying for financial assistance to assist them in their recovery from a physical injury, they will be required to provide a report(s) to the Tribunal from the health professional(s) who has provided treatment to them, demonstrating that the injury they have sustained is a direct result of the alleged crime that is the subject of their application for assistance.

If a person is applying for financial assistance to assist them in their recovery from a psychological injury, they will be required to submit a report from a psychologist, psychiatrist or other medical practitioner regarding that injury.

A person making an application for assistance as a related victim is not required to prove that they sustained an injury in order to be eligible for an award for the distress experienced by them as a result of the loss of a loved one.

Did a Violent Crime Occur?

leesa.willan — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 00:06:15 +0000

Did a Violent Crime Occur? leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 10:06

The Tribunal relies primarily upon information from Victoria Police in determining whether the crime that is the subject of an application for assistance occurred, and whether the applicant is a victim of that crime.

Upon an application for financial assistance being lodged, a registrar will write to Victoria Police to request information about the alleged crime, the criminal history of the applicant (if any), and the criminal history of the deceased if an applicant claims assistance as a related victim.

The Tribunal must be satisfied on the balance of probabilities that a violent crime (known as an ‘act of violence’ under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996) has occurred. An act of violence means a criminal act, or a series of related criminal acts, whether committed by one or more persons, that has:

Occurred in Victoria; and
Directly resulted in injury or death to one or more persons, irrespective of where the injury or death occurs.

It is not necessary for the alleged offender to be prosecuted or convicted of the crime. However, the criminal act that caused the injury must be serious enough to be punishable by imprisonment.

Criminal act

Criminal act means an act or omission constituting a relevant offence, or that would constitute a relevant offence if the person has not been incapable of being criminally responsible for it on account of:

Age, mental impairment or other legal incapacity preventing him or her from having a required fault element; and
The existence of any other lawful defence.

Relevant offence

Relevant offence is:

An offence, punishable by imprisonment, that involves an assault on, or injury or a threat of injury to, a person;
An offence of rape, indecent assault, incest, a sexual offence against a child or person with a cognitive impairment, other sexual offences;
An offence of stalking, child stealing or kidnapping; or
An offence of conspiracy to commit, incitement to commit or attempting to commit any of the above.

The Tribunal must refuse to make an award of assistance if:

The act of violence was not reported to police within a reasonable time; or
The applicant failed to provide reasonable assistance to any investigation, arrest or prosecution arising out of the act of violence unless the Tribunal considers that ‘special circumstances’ brought about that result.

See the Eligibility Issues page for further information regarding mandatory refusal.

Does the Tribunal consider claims relating to property loss or damage?

The Tribunal cannot award financial assistance for expenses incurred through the loss of, or damage to property as a result of a crime, except clothing worn at the time of the crime and in some cases security expenses.

Time to Apply for Further Financial Assistance

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 23:58:19 +0000

Time to Apply for Further Financial Assistance leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 09:58

From 18 November 2024, any request for additional assistance (a variation), is to be made directly to the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Further information in relation to this process can be located here:

https://www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

Making an Application for Further Financial Assistance

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 23:55:08 +0000

Making an Application for Further Financial Assistance leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 09:55

From 18 November 2024, any request for additional assistance (a variation), is to be made directly to the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Further information in relation to this process can be located here:

https://www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

Assistance After Your Final Award

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 23:52:18 +0000

Assistance After Your Final Award

leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 09:52

Following the final determination of an application for assistance, if an applicant requires further financial assistance for their recovery, they may be eligible to make an application to vary the original award of financial assistance.

From commencement of the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) on 18 November 2024, all variation applications must be submitted to the FAS.

Please visit the FAS website at www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au for more information about making an application for further financial assistance ans the time to apply for further financial assistance.

Victims of Family Violence

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 23:48:37 +0000

Victims of Family Violence leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 09:48

As of 1 July 2010 the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 was amended to enable the Tribunal to make awards in relation to safety-related expenses without the requirement for exceptional circumstances to be established by an applicant. Awards of financial assistance for safety-related expenses comprise part of the financial assistance that may be awarded to a primary victim for expenses incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred, up to the maximum statutory limit of $60,000.

This amendment enables the Tribunal to respond more quickly and effectively to victims of family violence who attend at the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria to apply for an intervention order. Some of the people for whom such orders are made are at risk of further violence and require additional assistance regarding their security, such as changing the locks or installing a security alarm at their home. In other circumstances, a person may feel that there is no alternative but to leave their home and incur expenses for the relocation or alternative accommodation.

Urgent financial assistance for safety-related expenses

Applicants requiring urgent financial assistance for safety-related expenses are encouraged to apply to the Tribunal for an interim award of financial assistance. Applications for interim financial assistance must be made in writing, setting out the reason for the request, and can be considered at any time prior to the final determination of an applicant’s application for assistance.

Applicants who are attending the Magistrates’ Court for the purposes of obtaining an interim intervention order under the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 may be eligible to apply to the Tribunal for an interim award of financial assistance for safety-related expenses.

Applicants should speak to a registrar at the Magistrates’ Court or their legal representative if this situation applies to them.

Urgent Financial Assistance

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 23:40:05 +0000

Urgent Financial Assistance

leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 09:40

What is an application for interim financial assistance?

An application for interim financial assistance is a request for payment of an expense (generally medical, counselling or funeral expenses) prior to the final determination of an application for financial assistance.

While the outcome of an application for an interim award does not determine an applicant’s final entitlement to financial assistance, the amount of any assistance awarded on an interim basis forms part of the maximum amount of assistance that may be awarded to an applicant.

What type of financial assistance can be awarded prior to the final determination of a matter?

An applicant may make an application for interim financial assistance for any expense they have incurred or are likely to incur as a result of a violent crime that may be awarded at the final determination of an application. For further information regarding the type of financial assistance available to each victim category, see the Financial Assistance Available page. The bulk of awards made awarding interim financial assistance are for counselling expenses, both reports and counselling sessions, in addition to funeral expenses. Interim awards may also be made to cover expenses that arise and need to be paid prior to the application being finalised, such as urgent medical, relocation or safety related expenses. The Tribunal may make an interim award of financial assistance in any circumstance that it considers appropriate.

How to make an application for interim financial assistance

An applicant may make an application for interim financial assistance at any time prior to the final determination of their application. Applications for interim awards of financial assistance are made in writing to the Tribunal, setting out the reasons and urgency for the interim request and enclosing receipts, tax invoices and other documentation in support of the expenses claimed. For further information regarding the supporting documentation required in relation to each type of expense, see the Supporting Documentation page.

The applicant will be notified of the result and sent an award notice or letter confirming the decision of the Tribunal.

Click here for further information regarding urgent safety related expenses for victims of family violence.

Interim financial assistance and the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS)

Please note: If an interim award has been made, and the application for assistance with VOCAT is struck out or withdrawn after commencement of the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) on 18 November 2024, the application may not be eligible for reinstatement with VOCAT. The applicant will also not be eligible to make a new application to the FAS.

Other Expenses to Assist Recovery

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 23:37:51 +0000

Other Expenses to Assist Recovery leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 09:37

In exceptional circumstances, the Tribunal may award an applicant financial assistance for other (non-medical, non-counselling and non-safety-related) expenses to assist an applicant in their recovery from a crime. Financial assistance for such expenses is usually awarded when the Tribunal is satisfied that the circumstances surrounding the expense and how it will assist an applicant in their recovery are unusual, special or out of the ordinary, and that the expense will go to the heart of assisting an applicant in their recovery from a crime.

Documentation required in support of a claim for other expenses to assist recovery

Applicants must satisfy the Tribunal that the expense claimed is unusual, special or out of the ordinary, and that the expense will go to the heart of assisting them in their recovery from a crime.

Applicants must provide an invoice/receipt substantiating the other expense claimed, or a quote, if the expense has not yet been incurred.

Urgent Counselling

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 23:31:39 +0000

Urgent Counselling leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 09:31

Victims Assistance Program (VAP)

The Victims Assistance Program is a network of services that operate throughout Victoria. These services assist victims, their families or anyone affected by a violent crime to access information, practical support and counselling.

Eligible victims of crime may be able to access short term counselling through the VAP to assist them in their recovery from the effects of crime.

The current eligibility criteria for access to short term counselling through the VAP are:

primary victims of a violent crime (and related victims in the case of homicide/culpable driving offences) which occurred and was reported to police within the past 24 months. The crime must have occurred in Victoria; and
victims of domestic violence who have been granted an intervention order within the past 24 months.

A list of the current VAP service providers (names and contact details) is available on the Victims of Crime website.

Urgent counselling expense application to the Tribunal (Interim application)

An applicant may make an application for interim financial assistance for counselling expenses at any time prior to the final determination of their application. Applications for interim awards of financial assistance are made in writing to the Tribunal, setting out the reasons and urgency for the interim request. The bulk of awards made awarding interim financial assistance are for counselling expenses, both reports and counselling sessions. Interim awards may also be made to cover expenses that arise and need to be paid prior to the application being finalised, such as urgent relocation or security expenses.

The documentation required in support of an interim application for counselling is outlined on the Counselling Applications page.

Session and Report Fees

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 22:36:43 +0000

Session and Report Fees leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 08:36

On 19 December 2024, the Chief Magistrate issued Guideline 2 of 2025 in relation to fees for the preparation of reports and the provision of counselling sessions, with the Guideline taking effect from 1 January 2025.

The Chief Magistrate has issued Guidelines for the purpose of guiding Tribunal Members, Tribunal Officers and Registrars in the amount of financial assistance to award for expenses relating to counselling reports and sessions. All fees awarded are at the discretion of the Tribunal.

Guideline 2 of 2025 distinguishes between fees that will be awarded to registered psychologists and non-psychologist counsellors, mental health social workers and social workers. The hourly rate of assistance that will be awarded for counselling sessions by a registered psychologist is $215. The hourly rate of assistance that will be awarded for counselling sessions by a Mental Health Social Worker is $195 and a non-psychologist counsellor has been set at $180.

Fees for sessions where an applicant has failed to attend

If a counsellor intends to file an invoice with the Tribunal claiming a fee for a scheduled session that an applicant failed to attend, the counsellor is required to write to the Tribunal within seven days of the scheduled session to advise of the following:

Date and time of scheduled session;
Date and time of notice (if any) received from the applicant regarding their non-attendance at the scheduled session; and
The counsellor’s published cancellation policy.

The letter from the counsellor must be accompanied by a Counselling and Report Fee Invoice (Form 5, Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - awards for counselling expenses) for the scheduled session, with an endorsement made on the invoice that the applicant did not attend the sessions as scheduled. The payment of such sessions is at the discretion of a Tribunal Member.

The initial request for non-attendance payment may be considered and authorised by a Registrar of the Tribunal. Any Subsequent non-attendance fee applications will be referred to a Judicial Officer for consideration and are likely to be deemed payable by the applicant.

Fees for preparation of reports

The Chief Magistrate has provided the following guidance in Guideline 2 of 2025 to the Tribunal in relation to awards of financial assistance for counselling reports made on and from 1 January 2025:

	Fee
Report Type	Registered Psychologist	Mental Health Social Worker/Non-Psychologist
First report recommending an award of financial assistance for 5 hours or less of counselling	$400	$400
First report recommending an award of financial assistance for more than 5 hours of counselling	*$490 to $815	$490 to $815
Subsequent report for award of financial assistance recommending financial assistance for further counselling than previously awarded	*$400	$400

* and for up to 2 hours at the authorised hourly rate for time spent conducting formal testing that is necessary for the purpose of preparing the report.

	Fee (inc. GST)
Report Type	Registered Psychologist/Psychiatrist/Mental Health Social Worker
Assessment report by non-treating psychologist	$490 to $815

Fees for counselling sessions

The Chief Magistrate has provided the following guidance to the Tribunal in relation to awards of financial assistance for counselling sessions made on or after 1 January 2025.

	Fee
Duration of Individual Client Counselling Sessions	Registered Psychologist	Mental Health Social Worker	Non-Psychologist/Social Worker
30 minutes	$130	$120	$110
60 minutes	$215	$195	$180
90 Minutes	$315	$280	$250

	Fee
Duration of Group or Family Counselling Sessions	Registered Psychologist	Mental Health Social Worker	Non-Psychologist/ Social Worker
30 minutes	$95 per person to a maximum of $225	$85 per person to a maximum of $215	$75 per person to a maximum of $195
60 minutes	$145 per person to a maximum of $395	$135 per person to a maximum of $365	$125 per person to a maximum of $325

The Tribunal has released a new Counselling Fee Guideline following advice from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) that certain psychological services are exempt from GST.

In accordance with this advice, session fees in accordance with Guideline 2 of 2025 are no longer inclusive of GST.

For further information see ATO website:

https://www.ato.gov.au/business/gst/in-detail/your-industry/gst-and-health/?anchor=Otherhealthservices1#Otherhealthservices1

Travel expenses associated with counselling

Awards for counselling expenses do not include assistance for travel expenses of the applicant and/or counsellor for attendance at a counselling session. Where an applicant seeks financial assistance for travel expenses to attend counselling, the applicant must make a specific request for that assistance in writing to the Tribunal in accordance with Practice Direction - Awards of Assistance for Travel Expenses

Counselling Reports

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 22:30:29 +0000

Counselling Reports leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 08:30

An applicant or their legal representative may on their own initiative file a psychological or psychiatric assessment report, prepared by a suitably qualified practitioner, in circumstances where the practitioner preparing the report does not propose to provide counselling or treatment to the applicant.

All expenses awarded for assessment reports filed by an applicant or their legal representative are at the discretion of the Tribunal.

Psychologists or psychiatrists who assess and report to the Tribunal as to the psychological/psychiatric condition and counselling needs of an applicant are required to prepare their reports in the format set out in Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Psychological/Psychiatric assessment reports by non-treating practitioners.

If a fee is claimed for the assessment report, a completed Counselling and Report Fee Invoice for the expenses associated with the assessment report must accompany the report when filed with the Tribunal (Form 5, Practice Direction 1 of 2022- Awards for counselling expenses).

Treating counsellor reports

In February 2021, the Tribunal issued new counselling forms for applications for financial assistance for counselling expenses. The new forms clearly set out the information required from treating practitioners and have made it easier for the Tribunal to assess:

The qualifications of the proposed counsellor to diagnose and/or treat the applicant;
The appropriateness and efficacy of the proposed treatment to assist the applicant to recover from the act of violence;
Whether the proposed cost of the treatment is reasonable;
The progress of treatment provided to an applicant when further treatment is recommended; and
To ensure that the applicant has been informed by the counsellor of the proposed treatment and endorses it.

A counsellor must prepare one of the following reports in support of an application for an award of financial assistance for counselling expenses:

Initial Report – Up to Five Hours of Counselling

(Form 1, Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for counselling expenses)

A report in this format is required when a counsellor has provided up to five hours of counselling, and the applicant does not seek an award for further counselling.

Initial Report – More than Five Hours of Counselling

(Form 2, Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for counselling expenses)

A report in this format is required where the applicant seeks an award for more than 5 hours of counselling.

Subsequent Report – Additional Hours of Counselling

(Form 3, Practice Direction 1 of 2022 - Awards for counselling expenses)

A report in this format is required when an applicant requests further counselling beyond that previously awarded by the Tribunal (that is, after an initial application for counselling expenses has already been approved).

All reports must be accompanied by:

An Application for Counselling form signed by the applicant (Form 4, Practice Direction 1 of 2022); and
If a fee is claimed for the report, a completed Counselling and Report Fee Invoice for that report (Form 5, Practice Direction 1 of 2022); and
If a fee is claimed for the counselling sessions already provided, a completed Counselling and Report Fee Invoice for that counselling (Form 5, Practice Direction 1 of 2022).

Change of counselling practitioner

In the event that an applicant ceases treatment with the author of a previously approved treatment plan and approaches another counsellor for counselling, the proposed counsellor must write to the Tribunal to advise that they agree to provide counselling services consistent with the approved treatment plan, or to propose a new treatment plan. The Tribunal will then consider authorising that the previously awarded counselling be provided by the new counsellor.

The Tribunal is unlikely to pay any counselling expenses incurred by the applicant with a counsellor with whom the Tribunal has not authorised the applicant to incur expenses.

Counselling Applications

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 22:16:23 +0000

Counselling Applications leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 08:16

The Tribunal may make an award of financial assistance for counselling expenses to primary, secondary, and related victims for expenses actually incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred for reasonable counselling services. Reasonable counselling expenses include counselling reports, counselling sessions already provided or future counselling sessions.

An award of financial assistance for a counselling expense is made to the applicant. The award authorises the applicant to incur counselling expenses with a particular counsellor consistent with the treatment plan proposed by that counsellor. When an award for counselling expenses is made by the Tribunal, the counsellor’s report is the basis for measuring the effectiveness of the treatment provided, and will be relevant in the assessment of any future application for an award for further counselling expenses.

Applications for financial assistance for counselling expenses must be made in writing by completing the Application for Counselling form and lodging it with the Tribunal.

The Application for Counselling form can be lodged with the Tribunal at the same time as the applicant’s Application for Assistance form, any time prior to the final determination of the application, or by way of variation application after the application has been determined.

The Application for Counselling form must be accompanied by:

a Counsellor’s Report in the form set out in Practice Direction 1 of 2022 Awards for counselling expenses– Forms 1, 2 or 3; and
a Counselling and Report Fee Invoice (if payment is sought for sessions and/or reports) in the form set out in Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 5.
The Application for Counselling form details the applicant’s consent and agreement to the proposed treatment plan set out in the counsellor’s report. It must be completed, signed and dated by the applicant and the applicant’s counsellor. An applicant must have agreed to the proposed treatment plan before signing the Application for Counselling form.

Applications for payment of first five hours of counselling

For adult applicants, the Tribunal will usually authorise the first five hours of counselling for the provision of ‘information, comfort, emotional and instrumental support (psychological first aid) provided by an appropriately qualified counsellor.

It is important to note, however, that all expenses awarded for counselling services are at the discretion of the Tribunal.

Applications for financial assistance for the first five hours of counselling must include:

an Application for Counselling form (Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 4);
an Initial Report – Recommendation for up to five hours of counselling (Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 1); and
a Counselling and Report Fee Invoice (if payment is sought for sessions and/or reports) (Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 5).

The Tribunal is unlikely to award financial assistance for counselling expenses incurred without its prior approval, except for the provision of ‘psychological first aid’ (i.e. the first five hours of counselling). If unauthorised counselling expenses are incurred, the applicant may be responsible for meeting the cost of those services.

The Victims Assistance Program (VAP) assists victims, their families or anyone affected by a violent crime to access information, counselling and practical support. The VAP provides short term counselling (usually upto five hours) to eligible victims of crime. This service is free, so if applicants have accessed counselling through the VAP they should not make an application to the Tribunal for the payment of those counselling expenses. Please visit the Victims of Crime support services page for more information about services offered.

There are also other government funded programs/centres, such as Centres Against Sexual Assault, that are funded to provide free short to medium term counselling to victims of crime. If counselling is accessed through these programs, the applicant should not make an application to the Tribunal for the payment of those counselling expenses.

Applications for payment of more than five hours of counselling

Applicants who are seeking financial assistance for more than the first five hours of counselling will be required to make an application for more than five hours of counselling.

This includes applicants who:

have accessed their first five hours of counselling through the Victims Assistance Program (or similar government funded service) but who require additional counselling sessions (the counsellor contracted by the VAP will generally write the report to the Tribunal recommending further counselling sessions); and
applicants who may have accessed up to five hours of counselling with a non-Government-funded counsellor but who require additional counselling sessions (the counsellor will generally write the report to the Tribunal recommending further counselling sessions and claiming payment for the sessions already provided).

The Tribunal will consider making an award for reasonable counselling services that are additional to the first five hours of counselling accessed by an applicant where:

there is proper clinical justification;
the counselling is likely to be effective in achieving and maintaining the applicant’s recovery;
the proposed treatment method is considered by the professional associations/bodies to which the counsellor belongs to be an appropriate method; and
a treatment plan has been considered and approved by the Tribunal.

Applications for assistance for more than five hours of counselling must include:

an Application for Counselling form (Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 4);
an Initial Report – Recommendation for more than five hours of counselling (Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 2) or Subsequent Report – Recommendation for additional hours of counselling (Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 3); and
a Counselling and Report Fee Invoice if payment is sought for sessions and/or reports) (Practice Direction 1 of 2022 – Form 5).

Guidelines for the Treatment of Adults with Acute Stress Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

The Tribunal may refer to the Australian Guidelines for the Treatment of Adults with Acute Stress Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder to assist in making decisions about the assessment and treatment of Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The Guidelines acknowledge that Acute Stress Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder are only some of the conditions faced by individuals affected by traumatic events. The Guidelines will not be applicable to all applicants.

Medicare - Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners Benefits Scheme

On 1 November 2006, the Australian Government introduced new Medicare items for psychological treatment provided by eligible psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists (allied mental health professionals). The scheme covers a range of common psychological issues, including posttraumatic stress disorder.

Under the new Medicare scheme, Medicare rebates are available to allied mental health professionals who provide treatment for mental health problems, and who are experts in the assessment and treatment of mental disorders.

Patients must be referred by their General Practitioner, psychiatrist or paediatrician in order to access the rebate. Their GP will need to complete a detailed mental health assessment and prepare a Mental Health Care Plan before the patient can be referred to an allied mental health professional.

From September 2018, eligible patients can generally receive:

up to 10 individual services in a calendar year. The patient’s referring doctor will assess their progress after the first six sessions; and
up to 10 group therapy services in a calendar year where such services are available and seen as appropriate by the patient’s referring doctor and the psychologist.

These sessions may be made up of face-to-face consultations, telehealth consultations, or a combination of both.

If an applicant has received financial assistance from the Tribunal for counselling expenses, and is accessing counselling services through the Medicare scheme, the Tribunal may pay the 'gap' after the applicant has received their rebate from Medicare.

Counselling Expenses

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 22:14:27 +0000

Counselling Expenses leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 08:14

This section contains information about making an application for an award of financial assistance for counselling expenses, the contents of reports submitted to the Tribunal in support of a counselling application, fees paid by the Tribunal for counselling sessions and reports, and access to urgent financial assistance for counselling expenses.

Select the links in the left hand menu or below to learn more about counselling applications, expenses and reports.

Counselling Applications

Counselling Reports

Sessions and Report Fees

Urgent Counselling

Contact

Further information may be obtained via email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

Distress and Dependency

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 22:09:42 +0000

Distress and Dependency leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 08:09

Distress

The amount of financial assistance awarded to a related victim may include a payment to acknowledge the distress caused by the death of a primary victim, or in the case of a child who is too young to appreciate the loss, the distress that is likely to occur in the future. Related victims are not required to prove they have sustained an injury in order to be eligible for an award of distress.

Dependency

The Tribunal may also award a related victim an amount of money that, but for the death of the primary victim, the related victim would have been reasonably likely to receive from the primary victim during a period of up to two years after their death.

Documentation required in support of a claim for distress

Claims for distress should be supported by:

evidence of the applicant’s relationship to the deceased primary victim; and
evidence that the applicant has suffered grief, distress or trauma as a direct result of the deceased primary victim’s death (evidence may be given at a hearing).

Documentation required in support of a claim for dependency

Dependency claims should include:

a completed Dependency Claim form;
details of gross pre-death earnings of the deceased (including how earnings were calculated);
documentation verifying WorkCover payments, Transport Accident Commission payments, Social Security payments, any other payments (if any) received by the applicant/deceased’s estate;
tax returns of the applicant/deceased for the three financial years before the death of the primary victim and the financial years for the dependency claim period;
details of the assets and liabilities of the applicant and the estate of the deceased;
details of the financial contributions made by the deceased primary victim to the applicant for the three financial years immediately before the death of the primary victim; and
verification of the relationship between the applicant and the deceased (e.g. spouse, child).

The above information is required in accordance with the Chief Magistrate's Practice Direction 8 of 2008- Dependency Claims. For further information see Practice Direction 8 of 2008-Dependency Claims.

Special Financial Assistance

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 22:06:52 +0000

Special Financial Assistance leesa.willan Fri, 16/09/2016 - 08:06

The Tribunal may make an award of special financial assistance to a primary victim who has suffered a significant adverse effect as a result of a crime being committed against them. Awards of special financial assistance provide the Tribunal with the opportunity to make a payment to a victim on behalf of the community in recognition of the harm suffered by the victim as a direct result of a violent crime.

Special financial assistance is awarded in addition to the $60,000 that may be awarded to primary victims by the Tribunal for counselling and medical expenses, safety related expenses, loss of income and other expenses incurred by the primary victim.

The Tribunal may make an award of special financial assistance in the following circumstances:

Criminal act of violence which occur on or after 1st July 2000;
Childhood sexual abuse which occurred on or after 1st July 1997;
Childhood sexual abuse which occurred prior to 1st July 2000 (where no application has been made to the Crimes Compensation Tribunal) provided that:
- The alleged offender has been committed or presented for trial after 1st July 1997; or
- The charge is heard and determined summarily irrespective of the outcome; or
- The person charged dies without the charge being determined.

Offences are organised into four categories in order to claim for special financial assistance. Each category has a prescribed minimum award level and a prescribed maximum award level. Higher awards will be reserved for more serious offences, such as rape, incest and sexual penetration of a child. Less serious offences, such as common assaults, will attract lower awards. For further information regarding each category and the prescribed limits see the attached Special Financial Assistance Table.

Sometimes the Tribunal may ‘uplift’ the maximum amount of special financial assistance available for a certain category of act of violence to the next category. For example, in certain circumstances the category A maximum amount maybe available for category B or C acts of violence.

Situations in which a higher amount of special financial assistance might be awarded include:

where a lower-category act of violence has had a particularly severe impact on the victim (such as permanent life-long serious physical injury); or
situations involving sustained abuse against a particularly vulnerable individual (such as a child or person suffering from an intellectual disability or mental illness).

Lost Earnings

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:42:44 +0000

Lost Earnings leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:42

The Tribunal may award a primary victim up to $20,000 for loss of earnings suffered, or likely to be suffered, as a direct result of their total or partial incapacity for work during a period of up to two years after the crime occurred.

In exceptional circumstances, the Tribunal may award a secondary victim up to $20,000 for loss of earnings suffered, or reasonably likely to be suffered, as a direct result of witnessing, or becoming aware of, the violent crime and which loss occurred during a period of up to two years after the occurrence of the crime.

A primary or secondary victim is only entitled to an award for loss of earnings after exhausting all other entitlements available, including those available pursuant to Social Security, WorkCover and Transport Accident Commission legislation.

Documentation required in support of a claim for lost earnings

Claims for loss of earnings must be supported by documentation that verifies the figures used to calculate the amount claimed as lost earnings. This may include:

(a) Advice in writing from the applicant's employer or, if self-employed, a statement detailing:

Number of days/weeks absent from work;
Reason for period of absence; and
Gross loss and how amount is calculated including particulars of the basis upon which notional pre-injury earnings have been determined

(b) Medical report/certificate specifying the nature of illness or injury causing partial or total work incapacity and the duration of such incapacity

WorkCover payments
Transport Accident Commission payments
Social Security payments
All other payments received by the applicant or to which the applicant is or may be entitled during the period for which the loss of earnings claim is made

(d) If self-employed, tax returns for:

the three financial years before the act of violence; and
the financial years between the date of the act of violence and the end date of the period for which the loss of earnings claim is made.

(e) Any other documentation relevant to the loss of earnings claim.

For further information see Chief Magistrates Practice Direction 5 of 2008-Claims for Loss of Earnings.

Funeral Expenses

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:39:49 +0000

Funeral Expenses leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:39

Related victims of a violent crime may be eligible for financial assistance for funeral expenses actually and reasonably incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred, by the related victim as a direct result of the death of the primary victim. The Tribunal may also award financial assistance for the funeral expenses actually and reasonably incurred by a person (who is not a related victim) as a direct result of the death of a primary victim.

The amount of financial assistance the Tribunal will award for funeral expenses is deducted from the $100,000 maximum that may be awarded to all related victims of a deceased primary victim.

Documentation required in support of a claim for funeral expenses

Applicants will need to provide a Statement of Claim form (unless making a Funeral Expenses only claim) which details the amount of financial assistance sought. This form should be accompanied by invoices, receipts or quotes for the funeral expense. This documentation should not be sent direct to the Tribunal by the funeral directors.

The Tribunal must be satisfied that a violent crime has occurred and that the applicant is eligible to receive the financial assistance before it will make an award of financial assistance for funeral expenses. VOCAT will generally rely on information provided by Victoria Police to satisfy itself that a violent crime has taken place and will also consider whether other entitlements through agencies such as TAC and WorkSafe have been exhausted.

Urgent financial assistance for funeral expenses

Financial assistance for funeral expenses may be awarded as an interim award of financial assistance (before the application for assistance is finalised) or on final determination. Applicants seeking an interim award of financial assistance for funeral expenses will need to make a request in writing to the Tribunal.

Reasonable funeral expenses

The Tribunal considers that the following items would be reasonably included in a burial or cremation service in accordance with the Chief Magistrate's Guideline No. 3 of 2021:

professional funeral director service fees
cemetery fees (grave and interment)
coffin/casket
memorialisation (simple identification plaque)
miscellaneous (e.g., flowers, press notice, death certificate, clergy)

The Tribunal will not generally award financial assistance for catering; wakes; multiple vehicles; memorials such as a crypt, headstone or monument; mausoleums; interment and placement or scattering of ashes; thank you notes or similar; or burial or cremation fees outside the Commonwealth of Australia.

For information on what the Tribunal considers to be reasonable funeral expenses, refer to Guideline No.3 of 2021 – Financial Assistance for Funeral Expenses.

Safety-Related Expenses

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:36:58 +0000

Safety-Related Expenses leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:36

The Tribunal may award financial assistance for safety-related expenses actually and reasonably incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred in the future, by a primary victim as a direct result of a violent crime.

Reasonable safety-related expenses generally include expenses such as relocation costs, security expenses, or window and lock repairs which relate to the immediate safety of an applicant.

Documentation required in support of a claim for safety-related expenses

Applications for financial assistance for safety-related expenses should be supported by invoices/receipts for the expense (if the expense has already been incurred), or by quotes (if the expense has not yet been incurred).

Urgent financial assistance for safety-related expenses

Applicants requiring urgent financial assistance for safety-related expenses pending the final determination of their application for assistance are encouraged to apply to the Tribunal for an interim award of financial assistance.

Applications for interim financial assistance must be made in writing, setting out the reason for the request, and can be considered at any time prior to the final determination of an applicant’s application for assistance.

Practice Direction 1 of 2003 - Repealing of Obsolete Practice and Procedural Directions

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:35:10 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2003 - Repealing of Obsolete Practice and Procedural Directions suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:35

Abstract

The purpose of this direction is to repeal a number of obsolete directions and, where relevant, to advise of the current applicable direction or regulation.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD1-03 Repealing of obsolete PDs.pdf	10.25 KB

Publication Topic

Repeal of Practice Directions

Published Date

16/05/2003

Updated date

15/09/2016

Medical Expenses

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:34:20 +0000

Medical Expenses leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:34

What are medical expenses?

Medical expenses include expenses for dental, optometry, physiotherapy, as well as hospital (surgery and anaesthesia) and ambulance expenses.

Sometimes a victim of a violent crime may be eligible to receive financial assistance from other sources to pay for medical expenses, such as from the Transport Accident Commission for crimes involving a motor vehicle or from WorkCover if the crime occurred at work. Some victims may also be eligible for Medicare or private health insurance rebates for some of their medical expenses. Applicants should seek assistance from these sources (if relevant) before applying to the Tribunal for financial assistance for those expenses.

How to apply for financial assistance for medical expenses

All claims for financial assistance for medical expenses must be supported by medical evidence of the injury suffered by the applicant and the link between the injury and the crime committed. The Tribunal will require documents demonstrating the injury and the expense, such as copies of medical bills, invoices, receipts of payment and Medicare rebate details before reimbursing the applicant for the cost of the medical expenses incurred (as appropriate).

If the applicant attended a public hospital the Tribunal may obtain the hospital records directly from the hospital. If the applicant attended a doctor, dentist, surgeon or other provider who has recommended that the applicant require future treatment, the applicant will be required to obtain a report from that person confirming the injury suffered and link to recommended treatment.

The Tribunal will usually reimburse the applicant for the cost of obtaining reports.

Documentation required in support of a claim for medical expenses

The following documentation should be filed in support of claims for medical expenses:

a report from a medical practitioner/dentist linking the treatment provided/proposed to the injury sustained by the applicant (the report should detail the proposed treatment plan); and
receipts, invoices or quotes substantiating the expense claimed (may also include ambulance expenses).

Financial Assistance Available

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:31:19 +0000

Financial Assistance Available leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:31

The Tribunal can award an eligible applicant financial assistance for:

Reasonable counselling expenses
Reasonable medical expenses (including dental, optometry, physiotherapy, hospital and ambulance expenses)
The replacement of damaged clothing worn at the time of the crime
Reasonable safety-related expenses (from 1 July 2010, for Primary victims only)
Reasonable funeral expenses
Lost earnings up to a maximum of $20,000 (Primary & Secondary Victims only)
In exceptional circumstances, other reasonable expenses that will assist an applicant in their recovery from the crime
Special financial assistance (Primary Victims only)
Distress and dependency (Related Victims only)

Financial assistance may be awarded for reasonable expenses actually incurred, or which are likely to be incurred in the future, as a direct result of the crime.

Does the Tribunal consider claims relating to property loss or damage?

Practice Direction 5 of 1997 - Hospital/health/medical benefits - Liability of Insurer to Pay

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:30:55 +0000

Practice Direction 5 of 1997 - Hospital/health/medical benefits - Liability of Insurer to Pay suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:30

Abstract

The purpose of this direction is to confirm the requirement of all medical and health insurers to meet their liabilities before the Tribunal will make an order for expenses.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD5-97 Liability of insurer to pay.pdf	8.2 KB

Publication Topic

Liability of Insurer to pay

Published Date

01/07/1997

Updated date

15/09/2016

Funeral Expenses Only

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:29:26 +0000

Funeral Expenses Only leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:29

A person who has incurred funeral expenses as a direct result of the death of a primary victim and who is not a related victim may be awarded assistance for funeral expenses actually and reasonably incurred by him or her. One such example could be where the deceased primary victim has no close living relatives and a friend (or distant relation) is therefore paying for funeral expenses. That person may apply to the Tribunal for reimbursement of the funeral costs only.

Related Victim

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:26:59 +0000

Related Victim leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:26

A related victim is a person who, at the time of the violent crime:

was a close family member of a deceased primary victim;
was a dependant of a deceased primary victim; or
had an intimate personal relationship with a deceased primary victim.

A ‘close family member’ is defined as a person who has a genuine personal relationship with the victim at the time of the victim’s death and who is:

the spouse of the victim;
a parent, guardian or step-parent of the victim;
a child or step-child of the victim or some other child of whom the victim is the guardian; or
a brother, sister, step-brother or step-sister of the victim.

‘Intimate personal relationship’ is not defined by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 however the following factors (please note that this list is not exhaustive) may lead to the view that there exists an intimate personal relationship: ongoing sexual relationship; ongoing emotional commitment and comfort and support of a personal nature; ongoing sharing of confidences, intimacies and personal information; ongoing advice of a personal nature; ongoing sharing of financial information and plans; ongoing sharing of social contacts and attendances at social functions.

The Tribunal may make an award to any one related victim of up to $50,000 for the distress experienced as a result of the death of the primary victim, and for:

reasonable counselling services;
medical expenses;
funeral expenses; and/or
any loss of money expected from the deceased.

The total maximum cumulative amount that may be awarded to all the related victims of any one primary victim cannot exceed the prescribed limit of $100,000 (unless the Tribunal finds that exceptional circumstances exist).

All related victim applications are to be lodged at the Melbourne Principal Registry.

Practice Direction 2 of 2023 - Engagement of Counsel to Assist Tribunal

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:26:13 +0000

Practice Direction 2 of 2023 - Engagement of Counsel to Assist Tribunal suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:26

Abstract

Practice Direction 11 of 2008 has been revoked by the Chief Magistrate as of 4 April 2023.

Where Counsel is required to assist the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal, written approval must be sought from the Supervising Magistrate of VOCAT (or their nominee).

Please email help@vocat.vic.gov.au, to discuss further.

The Tribunal will not be responsible for any fees, costs or charges incurred for the engagement of counsel, unless the retainer or engagement is so authorised by the Supervising Magistrate of VOCAT (or their nominee).

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Practice Direction No. 2 of 2023_FINAL_1.pdf	144.56 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD1-98- Engagement of Counsel to assist Magistrates on Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal (REVOKED).pdf	8.63 KB

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_PD_11_2008 - Engagement of Counsel_2.pdf	17.78 KB

Publication Topic

Engagement of Counsel to Assist the Tribunal

Published Date

04/04/2023

Updated date

15/09/2016

Secondary Victim

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:23:46 +0000

Secondary Victim leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:23

A secondary victim is:

a person who is present at the scene of a violent crime and who is injured as a direct result of witnessing that crime; or
a person injured as a direct result of subsequently becoming aware of an act of violence and who is the parent/guardian of the primary victim who was under the age of 18 at the time the criminal act was committed.

A secondary victim may be awarded up to $50,000 for reasonable expenses incurred (or likely to be incurred) in recovery from the crime for:

reasonable counselling expenses;
medical expenses incurred as a direct result of the violent crime; and
in exceptional circumstances, loss of earnings of up to $20,000.

Where the secondary victim is under the age of 18 and witnesses a violent crime involving a family member or is the parent/guardian of a child who was under the age of 18 at the time the criminal act was committed, the Tribunal may include in the amount awarded (within the $50,000 limit) an amount for other expenses actually and reasonably incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred, to assist him or her in their recovery from witnessing the crime.

Primary Victim

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:21:50 +0000

Primary Victim leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:21

A primary victim is a person who is injured or dies as a direct result of:

a violent crime committed against him or her;
trying to arrest someone he/she believes, on reasonable grounds, has committed a violent crime;
trying to prevent the commission of a violent crime; or
trying to aid or rescue someone he/she believes is the victim of a violent crime.

A primary victim may be awarded up to $60,000 in financial assistance, to cover reasonable expenses incurred (or likely to be incurred) in recovering from the crime for:

reasonable counselling expenses;
medical expenses incurred as a direct result of the violent crime;
reasonable safety-related expenses;
loss of earnings of up to $20,000 for a period of not more than 2 years from the crime;
loss of or damage to clothing worn at the time of the violent crime; and
other expenses actually and reasonably incurred, or likely to be incurred, by the victim to assist in his/her recovery from the violent crime.

In addition, the Tribunal may make an award of special financial assistance of up to $10,000 to a primary victim who has suffered a significant adverse effect as a result of a crime being committed against them. Awards of special financial assistance provide the Tribunal with the opportunity to make a payment to a victim on behalf of the community in recognition of the harm suffered by the victim as a direct result of a crime of violence. Further information is available on the Special Financial Assistance page.

Types of Victims

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:20:07 +0000

Types of Victims leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:20

The amount and nature of financial assistance that may be awarded to a victim of crime is limited by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996, and differs between primary, secondary and related victims. The amount of financial assistance awarded to a victim of crime to assist in their recovery must be reasonable, and the expenses claimed must directly arise from the crime.

Primary Victims

Secondary Victims

Related Victims

Funeral Expenses Only

Practice Direction 1 of 2010 - Awards of assistance for expenses yet to be incurred

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:17:55 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2010 - Awards of assistance for expenses yet to be incurred suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:17

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to specify the procedure to be followed in relation to claims for financial assistance for expenses yet to be incurred by an applicant.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD1-2010_Assistance_expenses_to_be_incurred.pdf	155.56 KB

Publication Topic

Expenses Not Yet Incurred

Published Date

30/03/2010

Updated date

15/09/2016

Practice Direction 1 of 2012 - Evidence of Physical Injury

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:13:11 +0000

Practice Direction 1 of 2012 - Evidence of Physical Injury suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:13

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to specify the procedure to be followed in relation to claims for financial assistance for expenses yet to be incurred by an applicant.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
CM_VOCAT_PD_1_2012 -Evidence of Physical Injury (1).pdf	355.91 KB

Publication Topic

Evidence of Physical Injury

Published Date

05/11/2012

Updated date

15/09/2016

REVOKED Practice Direction 4 of 2008 - Notification of Alleged Offenders and Third Parties

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 05:00:52 +0000

*REVOKED* Practice Direction 4 of 2008 - Notification of Alleged Offenders and Third Parties suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 15:00

Abstract

Practice Direction 4 of 2008 - Notification of Alleged Offenders and Third Parties is revoked.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD4-2008_Notification_of_alleged_offender_and_3rd_parties_0.pdf	32.16 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD8-03 Persons with a legitimate interest (REVOKED).pdf	14.79 KB

Attachment	Size
PD5-03 Notification of the Alleged Offender (REVOKED).pdf	9.51 KB

Attachment	Size
PD4-2008_Notification_of_alleged_offender_and_3rd_parties.pdf	32.16 KB

Publication Topic

Alleged Offender Notification

Published Date

11/12/2008

Updated date

15/09/2016

Legal Advice & Costs

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:57:11 +0000

Legal Advice & Costs leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:57

There are no fees associated with the filing of an application to the Tribunal and a lawyer cannot charge an applicant costs in respect of an application, unless the Tribunal approves those costs.

Pursuant to section 48 of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 the costs of, and incidental to, all proceedings in the Tribunal are in the discretion of the Tribunal and it has full power to determine by whom, to whom and to what extent the costs are to be paid.

Where an Application for Assistance is successful, the reasonable legal costs incurred by the applicant will usually be paid by the Tribunal, directly to the applicant’s legal representative.

If an applicant is legally represented, the legal representative must complete the ‘Amounts Payable to Solicitor’ section of your Statement of Claim form prior to submitting it to the Tribunal. Legal representatives should also attach any receipts and invoices for solicitors disbursements claimed.

Legal Cost Guidelines

The Chief Magistrate has published the below guidelines to aid the Tribunal in determining the amount of legal costs to be paid, for both preparation and appearance fees. See Guideline 1 of 2025.

Finding a Lawyer

The Law Institute of Victoria (LIV) online Directory Service and Legal Referral Service can assist you to locate legal professionals in your area or within a specific area of law. The LIV's phone and online Legal Referral Service provides free referrals to solicitors all over Victoria. Referrals are made according to practice area, geographic location, preferred language and other specific requirements.

Looking for Legal Help (liv.asn.au)

The VLS is a free service to victims of crime offering legal information, legal advice and referrals, including advice and support to victims of crime seeking financial assistance through VOCAT. The VLS is delivered in partnership between Victoria Legal Aid, Community Legal Centres (CLC’s) and Aboriginal Legal Services across the state.

The VLS Helpline operates Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and is contactable on 1800 531 566. The VLS can also be contacted via the VLA Legal Help Chat at the VLA website www.legalaid.vic.gov.au or through the Victims of Crime Helpline 1800 819 817.

Time to Apply

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:50:46 +0000

Time to Apply leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:50

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) can no longer accept new applications for financial assistance.

If you wish to seek financial assistance, an application can be made through the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please see more information via their website: www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

The Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 (the Act) provides that an Application for Assistance must be made within two years after the violent crime, in the case of an application by a related victim or a person who has incurred funeral expenses, within two years after the death of the primary victim. This time limit does NOT apply to applications of physical or sexual abuse where the applicant was under the age of 18 at the time of the offence.

The Tribunal may accept an Application for Assistance made out of time if it is satisfied (in the circumstances) that the application should be allowed. In determining whether to accept the application, the Tribunal may have regard to a range of considerations, including the age of the applicant at the time of the alleged act of violence; whether the applicant is intellectually disabled or mentally ill; or whether the person who committed/is alleged to have committed the act of violence was in a position of power, influence or trust in relation to the applicant.

If an Application for Assistance is lodged more than two years after the date of the alleged crime or death of the primary victim the applicant will be required to provide the reasons for the delayed application for consideration by the Tribunal. This is incorporated in the Tribunal's Application for Assistance form.

A person may lodge an application with the Tribunal in respect of an alleged act of violence that occurred before 1 July 1997 (the date the Act came into operation), provided that they had not made a prior application (in respect of the same act of violence) under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 1983 or the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 1972.

Where to Apply

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:46:18 +0000

Where to Apply leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:46

Applications for Assistance

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) can no longer accept new applications for financial assistance.

If you wish to seek financial assistance, an application can be made through the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please see more information via their website: www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to Files

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:36:45 +0000

Practice Direction 4 of 2021 - Access to Files suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:36

Abstract

The purpose of this Practice Direction is to specify the procedure to be followed when a request is made under section 42A of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 to access information about an application for assistance; and/or documents contained on a Tribunal file. This Practice Direction introduces separate processes for requests which do not relate to Tribunal proceeding or relate to finalised applications.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Practice Direction No. 4 of 2021.pdf	659.04 KB

Previous Versions

Attachment	Size
PD1-2015 Access to VOCAT Files (REVOKED).pdf	4.05 MB

Attachment	Size
PD9-2008 Access to VOCAT Files (REVOKED).pdf	55.73 KB

Attachment	Size
PD2-03 Access to VOCAT Files (REVOKED).pdf	27.13 KB

Publication Topic

Access to Tribunal Files

Published Date

09/11/2021

Updated date

11/11/2021

Dependency Claim

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:32:57 +0000

Dependency Claim suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:32

Abstract

Use this form in order to make a claim for dependency (related victims only).

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
Dependency_Claim_Form (1).pdf	15.13 KB

Publication Topic

Dependency Claim

Published Date

11/12/2008

Updated date

15/09/2016

Loss of Earnings Claim Form

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:28:08 +0000

Loss of Earnings Claim Form suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:28

Abstract

Use this form in order to claim for loss of earnings.

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
PD5-2008_Claims_for_Loss_of_Earnings (1).pdf	46.28 KB

Publication Topic

Loss of Earnings

Published Date

11/12/2008

Updated date

15/09/2016

Who Can Apply

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:19:15 +0000

Who Can Apply leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:19

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) can no longer accept new applications for financial assistance.

If you wish to seek financial assistance, an application can be made through the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please see more information via their website: www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

A person may continue with their Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) application for financial assistance if:

it were filed with the Tribunal prior to 18 November 2024
a violent crime was committed against them and they have suffered an injury
the crime occurred in Victoria
they are a primary, secondary or related victim of that violent crime as defined by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996, or a person who has incurred funeral expenses as a direct result of the death of a primary victim.

Further information regarding each type of victim category is outlined below.

Primary victim

A primary victim is a person who is injured or dies as a direct result of:

a violent crime committed against him/her/them;
trying to arrest someone he/she believes, on reasonable grounds, has committed a violent crime;
trying to prevent the commission of a violent crime; or
trying to aid or rescue someone he/she believes is the victim of a violent crime.

Secondary victim

A secondary victim is a person who is injured as a direct result of:

being present at the scene of a violent crime and witnessing that crime
subsequently becoming aware of a violent crime where he/she is the parent/guardian of the primary victim who was under the age of 18 at the time the criminal act was committed.

Related victim

A related victim is a person who, at the time of the violent crime:

was a close family member of a deceased primary victim;
was a dependant of a deceased primary victim;
had an intimate personal relationship with a deceased primary victim.

A ‘close family member’ is defined as a person who has a genuine personal relationship with the victim at the time of the victim’s death and who is:

the spouse of the victim;
a parent, guardian or step-parent of the victim;
a child or step-child of the victim or some other child of whom the victim is the guardian; or
a brother, sister, step-brother or step-sister of the victim.

‘Intimate personal relationship’ is not defined by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996, however the following factors (please note that this list is not exhaustive) may lead to the view that there exists an intimate personal relationship: ongoing sexual relationship; ongoing emotional commitment and comfort and support of a personal nature; ongoing sharing of confidences, intimacies and personal information; ongoing advice of a personal nature; ongoing sharing of financial information and plans; ongoing sharing of social contacts and attendances at social functions.

Funeral expenses

A person who has incurred funeral expenses as a direct result of the death of a primary victim and who is not a related victim may be awarded assistance for funeral expenses actually and reasonably incurred by him or her. One such example could be where the deceased primary victim has no close living relatives and a friend (or distant relation) is therefore paying for funeral costs. That person may apply to the Tribunal for reimbursement of the funeral costs only.

Applying for another person

An application for financial assistance may be made on behalf of another person if:

the victim is a child: The application may be made by a parent/guardian or another person the Tribunal considers appropriate.
the victim is a represented person within the meaning of the Guardianship and Administration Act 1986: The application may be made by an appointed guardian or administrator.
The Tribunal considers that the victim needs assistance in making an application: The application may be made by any person the Tribunal considers appropriate.

Annual Report 2014 - 15

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:12:00 +0000

Annual Report 2014 - 15 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:12

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2014 - 15

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2014 - 15.pdf	1.12 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

01/09/2015

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2013 - 14

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:10:02 +0000

Annual Report 2013 - 14 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:10

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2013 - 14

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2013 -14.pdf	2.35 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

01/09/2014

Updated date

15/09/2016

Lodging an Application

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:08:29 +0000

Lodging an Application leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:08

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) can no longer accept new applications for financial assistance.

If you wish to seek financial assistance, an application can be made through the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please see more information via their website: www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

Annual Report 2012 - 13

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:00:49 +0000

Annual Report 2012 - 13 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 14:00

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2012 - 13

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2012 - 13.pdf	934.62 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

30/09/2013

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2011 - 12

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:58:55 +0000

Annual Report 2011 - 12 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:58

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2011 - 12

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2011 - 12.pdf	794.67 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

03/09/2012

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2010 - 11

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:54:52 +0000

Annual Report 2010 - 11 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:54

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2010 - 11

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2010 -11.pdf	3.1 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

02/09/2011

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2009 - 10

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:49:05 +0000

Annual Report 2009 - 10 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:49

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2009 - 10

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual report 2009 - 10.pdf	1.18 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

03/09/2010

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2008 - 09

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:46:11 +0000

Annual Report 2008 - 09 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:46

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2008 - 09

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2008 - 09.pdf	823.86 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

24/09/2009

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2007 - 08

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:43:59 +0000

Annual Report 2007 - 08 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:43

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2007 - 08

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2007 - 08.pdf	793.99 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

15/09/2008

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2006 - 07

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:41:38 +0000

Annual Report 2006 - 07 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:41

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2006 - 07

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2006 - 07.pdf	1.14 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

27/08/2007

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2005 - 06

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:39:01 +0000

Annual Report 2005 - 06 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:39

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2005 - 06

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2005 - 06.pdf	1.38 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

30/06/2006

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2004 - 05

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:34:04 +0000

Annual Report 2004 - 05 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:34

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2004 - 05

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual REport 2004 - 05.pdf	1.07 MB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

28/03/2006

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2003 - 04

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:29:36 +0000

Annual Report 2003 - 04 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:29

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2003 - 04

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2003 - 04.pdf	512.82 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

30/09/2004

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2002 - 03

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:25:42 +0000

Annual Report 2002 - 03 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:25

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2002 - 03

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2002 - 03.pdf	541.4 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

30/06/2003

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2001 - 02

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 03:01:08 +0000

Annual Report 2001 - 02 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 13:01

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2001 - 02

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual Report 2001 - 02.pdf	143.2 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

30/06/2002

Updated date

15/09/2016

Annual Report 2000 - 01

suzanne.frawley — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 02:40:05 +0000

Annual Report 2000 - 01 suzanne.frawley Thu, 15/09/2016 - 12:40

Abstract

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal Annual Report 2000 - 2001

Number of pages

Publication Details

Attachment	Size
VOCAT Annual report 2000 - 01.pdf	376.45 KB

Publication Topic

Annual Reports

Published Date

30/06/2001

Updated date

15/09/2016

Frequently Asked Questions

leesa.willan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 02:15:22 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions leesa.willan Thu, 15/09/2016 - 12:15

How do I apply for financial assistance?

Am I eligible?

Do I have to pay for a solicitor?

Will the alleged offender be notified?

Do I have to attend the Tribunal for a hearing?

Where should I file my application?

How long will it take to finalise my claim?

Once my claim is finalised how long will it take for me to receive my award?

How do I get urgent financial assistance?

What happens if I have not reported the matter to police?

Who can witness a Statutory Declaration?

Does the Tribunal consider claims relating to property loss or damage?

How do I apply for financial assistance?

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) can no longer accept new applications for financial assistance.

If you wish to seek financial assistance, an application can be made through the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please see more information via their website: www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

Am I eligible?

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) can no longer accept new applications for financial assistance.

If you wish to seek financial assistance, an application can be made through the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please see more information via their website: www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas

A person may continue with their pending application for assistance if:

a violent crime was committed against them and they have suffered an injury
the crime occurred in Victoria
they are a primary, secondary or related victim of that violent crime as defined by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996, or a person who has incurred funeral expenses as a direct result of the death of a primary victim.

Further information regarding each type of victim category is outlined on the Who Can Apply page.

Do I have to pay for a solicitor?

There are no fees associated with the filing of an application to the Tribunal and a lawyer cannot charge an applicant costs in respect of an application, unless the Tribunal approves those costs.

Where an application for financial assistance is successful, the reasonable legal costs incurred by the applicant will usually be paid by the Tribunal, directly to the applicant’s legal representative.

Finding a Lawyer

Alternatively, the Victims Legal Service Helpline is a specialist service available to victims of crime for legal information and advice - Phone 1800 531 566.

Will the alleged offender be notified?

Do I have to attend the Tribunal for a hearing?

The Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 provides flexibility in the manner in which applications for financial assistance can be determined by the Tribunal. It does this by providing applicants with the opportunity to appear before a Tribunal member or to have their applications determined in their absence, and provides an opportunity for victims to give voice to the impact of the crime and to receive acknowledgement and validation of their trauma through a hearing process.

Where should I file my application?

From 18 November 2024, new applications for assistance cannot be made to the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) and must be made to the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please visit their website at www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas to find out more about the scheme and their application process.

How long will it take to finalise my claim?

Before finalising an application, a Tribunal member may determine that it is appropriate to await the outcome of a criminal investigation, trial or inquest; may request that further enquiries be made or that the alleged offender be notified of the application; or decide that they will wait for an injury to stabilise so that an accurate prognosis can be provided to the Tribunal. In applications for financial assistance by related victims of an act of violence, time may be required to identify and communicate with all potential related victims of a deceased primary victim to advise them of their possible right to apply to the Tribunal for financial assistance. It is also the Tribunal’s practice to await the readiness of all applications prior to finalising related victim matters.

Once my claim is finalised how long will it take for me to receive my award?

Once an award for financial assistance has been made by the Tribunal the award will be entered onto the Tribunal’s electronic database. Notification of the award may then be generated and a copy of the award notices will be sent to the applicant/their legal representative. Payment will generally be made by cheque unless a request is made for an award to be deposited directly into a nominated bank account.

Payment via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

If advised prior to the finalisation of an award for financial assistance the Tribunal may directly deposit the award into a nominated bank account. Please contact the Melbourne Tribunal for further information.

Estimated payment timeframes

Change of address details

Applicants should ensure that the Tribunal is notified of any change of address prior to the finalisation of an award. Please advise, in writing, to admin@vocat.vic.gov.au

What happens if payment is not received

If payment of an award is not be received within six weeks of the award being made please contact the Tribunal.

How do I get urgent financial assistance?

Further information can be found on the Urgent Financial Assistance page.

What happens if I have not reported the matter to police?

In determining whether or not to make an award of financial assistance, or the amount of financial assistance to award, the Tribunal must have regard to:

whether the crime was reported to police within a reasonable time
the assistance provided by the applicant to police to investigate or prosecute the alleged crime
the conduct and attitude of the applicant prior to, during and after the crime
the character of the applicant, including past criminal activity
whether the offender will benefit from an award of financial assistance made to the applicant
any damages that the applicant has recovered from the offender
any compensation, assistance or payment that the applicant has received, or is entitled to receive, from other sources such as WorkCover, the Transport Accident Commission and insurance schemes.

The Tribunal must refuse to make an award of assistance if satisfied that:

The violent crime was not reported to police within a reasonable time; or
The applicant failed to provide reasonable assistance to any person investigating the act of violence, in the arrest or prosecution of any person by whom the act of violence was allegedly committed unless the Tribunal considers that special circumstances exist.

In considering whether the act of violence was reported to the police within a reasonable time, the Tribunal may have regard to any matters that it considers relevant, including:

the age of the victim at the time of the occurrence of the violent crime;
whether the victim is intellectually disabled within the meaning of the Disability Act 2006 or mentally ill within the meaning of the Mental Health Act 1986;
whether the person who committed, or is alleged to have committed, the violent crime was in a position of power, influence or trust in relation to the victim;
whether the victim was threatened or intimidated by the person who committed, or is alleged to have committed, the violent crime or any other person; or
the nature of the injury alleged to have been suffered by the victim.

Who can witness a Statutory Declaration?

The following list is not exhaustive. Please refer to section 30(2) of the Oaths and Affirmations Act 2018 for the full list of authorised persons.

A Justice of the Peace or a Bail Justice
A Public Notary
A public service employee with a classification level of 2 or equivalent or above, however described
An Australian legal practitioner (within the meaning of the Legal Profession Act 2004)
A clerk to an Australian lawyer
An associate to a judicial officer
The Prothonotary or a Deputy Prothonotary of the Supreme Court
The Registrar of Probates or an Assistant Registrar of Probates
The Registrar or a Deputy Registrar of the County Court
The Principal Registrar or a Registrar or Deputy Registrar of the Magistrates’ Court
The Principal Registrar or a Registrar or Deputy Registrar of the Children's Court
The Principal Registrar, or a Registrar of Deputy Registrar of VCAT
The Principal Registrar or a Registrar of the Coroner's Court
The Associate to a Judge of the Supreme Court or of the County Court
The Secretary of a Master of the Supreme Court or of the County Court
A person registered as a Patent Attorney under Chapter 20 of the Patents Act 1990 of the Commonwealth
Protective Services Officers within the meaning of section 3(1) of the Victoria Police Act 2013
A member of the police force
The sheriff or a deputy sheriff
A member or a former member of either House of the Parliament of Victoria
A member or a former member of either House of the Parliament of the Commonwealth
A councillor of a municipality
A senior officer of a Council as defined in the Local Government Act 1989
A registered medical practitioner within the meaning of the Health Professions Registration Act 2005
A registered dentist within the meaning of the Health Professions Registration Act 2005
A pharmacist
A principal in the [State] teaching service
A person employed under Part 3 of the Public Administration Act 2004 with a classification that is prescribed as a classification for statutory declarations or who holds office in a statutory authority with such a classification
A fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives (Victoria).
Registrars and Deputy Registrars of the Magistrates' Court of Victoria are available during normal business hours to witness Statutory Declarations.

Please note:

This list contains the persons who are accepted as authorised to receive affidavits for documents that are remaining within Victoria.

For any documents that are being sent interstate, it is best for them to be signed by a Justice of the Peace or a solicitor.
For any documents that are being sent overseas, it is best for them to be signed by a Justice of the Peace or a Public Notary, depending on the country. For example, Commonwealth countries will usually accept either one, but European countries will usually insist on the seal of a Public Notary.

Does the Tribunal consider claims relating to property loss or damage?

Payment

ak — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 01:22:41 +0000

Payment

ak Thu, 15/09/2016 - 11:22

This section outlines information regarding the legislative and procedural requirements for the payment of awards of financial assistance, including the payment of future authorised expenses, invoices, payments to victims and service providers as well as awards held on Trust.

From 18 November 2024, the Tribunal can only accept invoices/receipts for payment of authorised future expenses for current pending applications for assistance.

Invoices

Payment to Victims

Payment to Service Providers

Awards held on Trust

Contact

Further information may be obtained via email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

Determining an Application

ak — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 01:22:20 +0000

Determining an Application

ak Thu, 15/09/2016 - 11:22

This section contains information about the requirements that must be met before the Tribunal can make an award of financial assistance and the arrangements for hearing an application for financial assistance.

The Tribunal may award financial assistance to an applicant if it is satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, that:

a violent crime occurred (referred to as an act of violence in the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996);
the applicant is a primary, secondary or related victim of that crime, or a person who has incurred funeral expenses as a direct result of the death of a primary victim;
the applicant is eligible to receive the financial assistance; and
the applicant is not eligible to receive financial assistance from another source for the loss or expense sought from the Tribunal.

The Tribunal may award financial assistance even though no person has been charged with, found guilty of, or convicted of an offence arising from the act of violence committed.

Refer to the left hand menu for further information regarding the Tribunal's considerations and process for determining an application for financial assistance.

Contact

Further information may be obtained by contacting your local venue of the Tribunal or via email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

Assistance Available

ak — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 01:21:39 +0000

Assistance Available

ak Thu, 15/09/2016 - 11:21

This section outlines financial assistance that may be available to victims of crime from the Tribunal. Information regarding the assistance that may be awarded to primary, secondary and related victims, as well as information regarding the different types of assistance available can be found on the relevant pages.

Financial assistance that may be awarded

The Tribunal may award financial assistance for a range of expenses. The types of assistance that the Tribunal may award are set out in the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 and include assistance for:

counselling and medical expenses;
safety related expenses;
loss or damage to clothing worn at the time of the incident;
loss of earnings;
dependency upon a deceased primary victim (related victims only);
assistance for reasonable funeral expenses.

In exceptional circumstances, the Tribunal may award an amount for other expenses actually and reasonably incurred, or reasonably likely to be incurred, by an applicant to assist them in their recovery from the act of violence. Refer to the Types of Victims and Financial Assistance Available pages for further information.

Number of final awards of financial assistance made, and average amount of financial assistance awarded on final determination

	2013/14	2014/15	2015/16
Number of awards of financial assistance made	4,755	4,462	4161
Amount of financial assistance awarded	$34,883,120	$34,094,333	$32,387,146
Average amount of financial assistance awarded	$7,763	$7,641	$7,784

Contact

Further information may be obtained via email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

How to Apply

ak — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 01:17:31 +0000

How to Apply

ak Thu, 15/09/2016 - 11:17

From 18 November 2024, new applications for financial assistance cannot be made to the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) and must be made to the new Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS).

Please visit the FAS website at www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas for more information about the scheme and application process.

Applicants may be able to obtain financial assistance for their injury from other sources. These sources are listed below and the Tribunal recommends that they are explored before an applicant makes an Application for Assistance from the Tribunal.

Workcover (if the incident occurred at work); or
Transport Accident Commission (if the incident involved a motor vehicle); or
The Police Assistance Act (if the victim was injured assisting the police); or
Medicare and/or Private Health Insurance (for some medical bills); or
The offender (if found guilty).

In determining the amount of financial assistance (if any) to be awarded to the applicant, the Tribunal will take into account any other payments received and may reduce the amount accordingly. The Tribunal may also require reimbursement of any amount paid to the applicant if they are successful in claiming assistance from another source.

Contact us

wrinkles-caravan-acoustic-tempest — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 04:30:41 +0000

wrinkles-carav… Thu, 18/08/2016 - 14:30

Contacting the Tribunal about your application

The Tribunal's Principal Registry is located at 555 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.

Postal address:

GPO Box 882
Melbourne VIC 3001

Tribunal area	Phone Contact	Email Contact
VOCAT Registry	1800 882 752 – Option “1” or (03) 9651 7177	admin@vocat.vic.gov.au
VOCAT Tribunal Officer List	1800 882 752 – Option “2” Or (03) 9651 7176	tribunal.officers@vocat.vic.gov.au
VOCAT Koori List	1800 882 752 – Option “3” Or (03) 9651 7178	koori@vocat.vic.gov.au

For all general enquires, please email help@vocat.vic.gov.au

About the Tribunal

wrinkles-caravan-acoustic-tempest — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 04:28:20 +0000

About the Tribunal

wrinkles-carav… Thu, 18/08/2016 - 14:28

This section provides a brief overview of the role and purpose of the Tribunal, our staff and Tribunal Members.

The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) was established by the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 1996 and commenced on 1 July 1997, following the abolition of the Crimes Compensation Tribunal, which had operated in Victoria since 1973 under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 1972 and the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 1983.

VOCAT was established to acknowledge and provide financial assistance to victims of crime committed in Victoria, to assist them in their recovery from crime.

Media

wrinkles-caravan-acoustic-tempest — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 04:23:06 +0000

Media

wrinkles-carav… Thu, 18/08/2016 - 14:23

This section contains information for media representatives in relation to the release of Tribunal documentation and the restrictions which exist regarding the publication of Tribunal material. Media Releases can also be located in this section.

Access to Documents

Restriction on Publication

Media Releases

Contact details

Further information may be obtained from:

Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal – Principal Registry

Level 5, 555 Lonsdale St
Melbourne VIC 3000

Tel: 1800 882 752
Email: help@vocat.vic.gov.au

GPO Box 882
Melbourne VIC 3001

Resources

wrinkles-caravan-acoustic-tempest — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 01:48:21 +0000

Resources

wrinkles-carav… Thu, 18/08/2016 - 11:48

In this section you will find all of the Tribunal’s resources to assist with the understanding the practices and procedures of the Tribunal. The different types of resources can be accessed via the links on the left hand menu or listed below.

Access to Documents & Material

Media

Publications

Relevant Review Cases

Access denied

wrinkles-caravan-acoustic-tempest — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 07:27:25 +0000

Access denied wrinkles-carav… Tue, 02/08/2016 - 17:27

You don’t have permission to view this page. If you believe this is a mistake, please contact our support team.

Not found

wrinkles-caravan-acoustic-tempest — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 07:15:42 +0000

Not found wrinkles-carav… Tue, 02/08/2016 - 17:15

The page you were trying to reach does not exist. Try our site search to find what you were looking for.