Contacts
Financial Assistance Scheme
www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au/fas
Financial Assistance Scheme Helpline
Tel: 1800 161 136 (Monday to Friday, 8.30 am to 5.30 pm, except public holidays)
Victims of Crime Helpline
Tel: 1800 819 817 or text 0427 767 891 (Seven days a week, 8 am to 11 pm)
Email: vsa@justice.vic.gov.au
The Victims of Crime Helpline is the umbrella Victorian Government Service offering information and support to people affected by crime. It provides advice about the criminal justice system, the Financial Assistance Scheme, and connections to other support services, such as the Victims Assistance Program.
Victims Assistance Programs are located in various regions and provide assistance for more long-term support on a case-by-case basis. Referrals to lawyers and counsellors can be given, and funding can be granted for practical items such as urgent security costs and taxi vouchers. Some services offer referrals to a limited number of free counselling sessions.
Victims Legal Service Helpline
Tel: 1800 531 566 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm)
The Victims Legal Service Helpline is a specialised legal advice phone service that provides guidance on how to apply for financial assistance for victims of crime. The helpline is staffed by lawyers who can provide general procedural advice on how to apply to the FAS for assistance or, where appropriate, give referrals to lawyers in Community Legal Centres who will assist.
Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT)
GPO Box 882, Melbourne 3001
Tel: 1800 882 752 or 9651 7177
Email: admin@vocat.vic.gov.au
www.vocat.vic.gov.au
Contacts
Chapter: 10.6: Assistance for victims of crime
Contributor: Marita Ham, Barrister
Current as of: 18 November 2024
Law Handbook Page: 887
Next Section: 10.7 Compensation for some legal costs
