The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) plays a crucial role in supporting victims of crimes in Victoria by providing financial assistance to help them recover from the impacts of crime.

VOCAT is designed to cover various expenses that victims incur as a direct result of the crime, offering relief when other sources of support are unavailable.

VOCAT may provide financial assistance for the following types of expenses -

Lump Sum Payments (Special Financial Assistance):

These payments are intended to help victims recover and acknowledge the physical and emotional injuries, distress, and trauma caused by the crime. This assistance aims to provide financial support that recognizes the impact of the crime on the victim’s life.

Counseling Services:

Financial support for counseling helps victims access mental health services needed to cope with the psychological effects of the crime, promoting emotional recovery and well-being.

Medical Expenses:

VOCAT can cover the costs of medical treatment directly related to injuries sustained during the crime, ensuring that victims receive the necessary care without financial strain.

Safety-Related Costs:

This includes expenses incurred to enhance the victim’s safety following the crime, such as security systems or relocation costs, to help them feel secure and protected.

Funeral Expenses:

VOCAT provides assistance with funeral costs for victims who have died as a result of violent crime, easing the financial burden on their families.

Lost Earnings:

Financial support is available to compensate for income lost due to the crime, helping victims manage their financial responsibilities while they recover.

Other Reasonable Expenses:

This category covers various other expenses that are reasonably incurred as part of the victim’s recovery process, which may not fall into the other specified categories.

It is important to note that VOCAT provides assistance only when no other source of support is available and does not cover property loss or damage resulting from the crime. This targeted financial aid helps ensure that victims can access necessary resources and support as they work towards recovery and rebuilding their lives.