Criminal Injuries Compensation
Where you have been a victim of a crime that was committed in Western Australia, you may be eligible to apply for compensation.
An application must be made within 3 years of the offence that caused the harm, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
This process is difficult and can take some time to complete. For some people, the process can be retraumatising. For some people, the process is important to complete and may help them to move forward. Each person will have their own unique experience of making an application for compensation.
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In Western Australia, a victim of a crime can apply for financial compensation for an physical harm, mental or nervous shock or pregnancy due to an injury suffered as a consequence of the crime.
An award for compensation made under the scheme, is paid for by the State of Western Australia.
It is possible to apply for compensation where an offender is not charged.
In nearly all matters, you will benefit from engaging with support service, such as a psychologist, who can provide independent advice on the harm you have suffered.
It is important to know you will be required to provide a statement of your own as part of the application.
Alternatively, where the offender is convicted, you can seek compensation or restitution directly from the offender. This compensation is not paid by the State of Western Australia.
You can also bring a common law claim against the offender.
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I can provide advice on making an application for compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation scheme including the following:
eligibility to make an application
the supporting documentation you will need
the date by which you must lodge your application.
I can assist you by preparing and lodging the application on your behalf.