Rights of victims

Question 1

What are the rights of victims?

Answer 1

• To give evidence through alternative arrangements
• Be informed about proceedings
• Be informed about likely release date of offender

Question 2

What is the right to give evidence through alternative arrangements and some examples?

Answer 2

For certain victims (sexual/family violence etc.) special provisions are in place to enable witnesses to give evidence through:
- Having a support person in court while giving evidence (only if they’re are not appearing as a witness as well)

• Having the court closed to the public while evidence is given (may interfere with accused’s right to a fair and public hearing)
• Having a dividing screen in the court so that the victim does not have to see the accused whilst giving evidence
• Giving evidence via closed circuit television from a remote witness facility

Question 3

What is the right to be informed about proceedings?

Answer 3

Victims entitled to information regarding the investigation of the offence and the prosecution of the accused. In accordance to Victims’ Charter Act:

• Be told by police of key progress in the investigation of the offence, and if this investigation is likely to put the victim at risk
• Be told about the prosecution of the accused (including charges laid, court dates and times, court outcomes, and any appeals lodged) and any substantial changes to the charges
• Have court processes explained to them

Question 4

What is the right to be informed about the likely release date of the offender?

Answer 4

Victims of crime are entitled to be informed of when the perpetrator of a crime against them is likely to be released from prison or other details (such as eligibility for parole). Victims of crime and/or their family member(s) can apply to be included on the Victims Register if they were a victim, or their family member was a victim, of a range of offences, including assault, sexual offences, stalking, armed robbery, and murder.