Victims of Crime

Victims of crime are citizens who have had their lives interrupted by crime. They have suffered harm and deserve the support of the community and the people around them.

The UN Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power defines victims as people who have "suffered harm, including physical or mental injury, emotional suffering, economic loss or substantial impairment of their fundamental rights, through acts or omissions that are in violation of criminal laws". The UN Declaration states that victims should be treated with compassion and respect for their dignity, and should be supported by government and the community.

The NSW Parliament has passed a Charter of Victims' Rights. The government's victims of crime website contains valuable advice and information for victims and their families about:

counselling and support services
police investigations and court processes
obtaining compensation
domestic violence and sexual assault
victims rights
victim impact statements.

NSW Victims Support Line

The NSW government also runs a 24-hour support referral and information service for victims of crime. It can provide you with information about emergency accomodation, counselling etc. You can contact the Victims Support Line on:

(02) 9374 3000
1800 633063 (tollfree)
TTY (02) 9374 3175

Sexual assault victims can call the NSW Rape Crisis Centre 24-hour hotline on 1800-424-017 or www.nswrapecrisis.com.au for counselling and support.

support for children and young people

If you are between 5 and 18 years of age, you can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

You can talk to someone who will listen to you and who will help you. The Helpline is confidential - so you don't have to tell anyone else. And it's also free, so it won't cost you a cent.

Any child or young person in Australia can call the Helpline.

support for victims outside of NSW

For victims advice and information in other Australian States and Territories, click here.
For victims advice and information elsewhere in the world, click here.