For Victims
Having a violent crime happen to you or a loved one can be very traumatic and disruptive – and sometimes the effects may be felt for a long time after the crime occurs.
It can be difficult to know what to do next – but you do not have to deal with it alone. The Victims Assistance Program (VAP) is funded to provide free services to victims of violent crime against the person.
We provide information, practical assistance and referrals to other services, tailored to your individual needs.
You can access the Victims Assistance Program regardless of whether you have or haven’t reported the crime to Police. Please contact the Victims of Crime Helpline and they will support you through the initial screening process.
Who is this service for?
Any person who has experienced or witnessed a violent crime against the person can use the service.
Not all violence is physical, with some crimes against the person involving psychological abuse.
If you are unsure if you are eligible for this service, call the Victims of Crime Helpline on 1800 819 817
What happens when I call the Victims Assistance Program?
Our intake team will ask some questions to see if we are the best suited program to help you. If we are not able to support you, we will help you find other support services.
Helping you make informed decisions about the support you need or action you wish to take (e.g. reporting a crime)
Referrals to other services or supports
Help with making victim impact statements, attending court proceedings, and helping you navigate the justice system from beginning to end
Help with VOCAT applications (compensation for criminal acts)
Access to counselling and therapeutic related services
Access to practical supports
Culturally sensitive support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander victims
Understanding the needs relevant to diverse communities is vital for providing culturally appropriate and effective support.
Our Aboriginal Engagement Worker can provide confidential and culturally sensitive support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander victims of crime in the community.
Sexual Assault and Family Violence
Sexual assault and family violence is never the fault or responsibility of the victim survivor.
The SAFV Centre has over 45 years’ experience supporting victims of family violence and sexual assault. With more than a third of victims accessing the Victims Assistance Program as a victim of family violence or sexual assault, we are able to provide a stronger connection with specialist response services.
For women, young people and children who are experiencing family violence, please contact The SAFV Centre for Barwon or Emma House in the South West for support.
You can also access support through The Orange Door.
For anyone impact by sexual assault, please contact The SAFV Centre for Barwon support, or South West CASA for South West.
For male victims of family violence, support is available through our Victims Assistance Program.
