You may be entitled to financial assistance from the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) to assist with costs you have been required to pay as a result of the crime. This includes:
In the case of culpable driving or dangerous driving causing death you may be entitled to financial assistance from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) for:
When making an application for financial assistance you will be required to meet various criteria which relate to:
VOCAT recommends that if you are eligible for financial assistance from the TAC, that you apply there first before lodging your VOCAT application.
For general information and assistance making an application you can contact the Victims Assistance and Counselling Program (VACP). The VACP can give you information, support and assistance with applications for financial assistance. To contact your local VACP, first call the Victims of Crime Helpline.
You may also want to contact VOCAT or the TAC directly.
In certain circumstances you may be able to apply for compensation from the offender, through the sentencing court, after they are found guilty.
You have the right to take civil action for compensation against the offender whether or not they are found guilty. This is a separate legal process and the OPP does not act on behalf of victims in these matters.
Both options involve complex legal processes. Important questions to consider are:
The following organisations can provide you with information about your right to financial assistance and compensation:
VACP can give you information, support and assistance with applications for financial assistance. VACP workers may also refer you to a local lawyer for advice or assistance.
The Federation of Community Legal Centres can give you details of your local Community Legal Centre which provides free legal advice to the public.
Law Institute Referral Service – the ‘Find Your Lawyer Legal Referral Service’ gives you access to 30 minutes free legal advice from a local legal firm.
