The ACT Government has introduced legal reform to support victims and make the Territory’s criminal justice system fairer.
The Victims of Crime (Financial Assistance) Amendment Bill 2024aims to improve experiences for victims of crime applying for the Financial Assistance Scheme, which provides financial assistance to eligible victims of violent crime in the ACT. The bill reduces red tape for victims applying for the scheme by simplifying eligibility criteria, notification requirements and decision-making processes.
Further safeguards will also be put in place to protect victims’ sensitive information, as part of the bill.
These improvements are recommendations from the Projects Assisting Victims’ Experience and Recovery (PAVER) Review and address administrative and legislative barriers identified by the Victims of Crime Commissioner.
The Crimes (Disclosure) Legislation Amendment Bill 2024also supports victims by giving them a greater voice in court. Victim-survivors of sexual assault and family violence will be given standing before the court, meaning they can directly inform the court about the potential impact of using their confidential information.
Additionally, the Crimes (Disclosure) Legislation Amendment Bill provides enhanced transparency in criminal proceedings, with clearer rules on what evidence must be disclosed, and clear timeframes for compliance. This makes it fairer for defendants and streamlines the process.
The Victims of Crime (Financial Assistance) Amendment Bill and the Crimes (Disclosure) Legislation Amendment Bill support both victims of crimes and victim-survivors, while improving the fairness of the ACT’s justice system.
