6 May 2011

Support funds for victims of crime

6:43 pm on 6 May 2011

More victims of crime, and in some cases their families, are to get access to support funds.

The families of people killed in road crashes involving criminal offending are also affected.

Justice Minister Simon Power says that from July this year, victims of sexual violence and serious crime will be entitled to $100 for each day they attend court.

The travel assistance scheme will be expanded and there will be a means-tested emergency grant of up to $2000 to help with healing and recovery.

Up to 30 trauma counselling sessions will be available for bereaved people and a grant of $3000 may be given to lessen the financial impact of the family member's death.

These services will be funded by a levy of $50 on everyone sentenced in the District Court or High Court.