Compensation
Compensation for families whom have lost a loved one to homicide is legislated by each state. In other words, the compensation available to each family differs, depending on which state (and at times, which country) their loved one was murdered in.
Within Queensland, family members of victims of homicide may make an application to the Queensland Department of Justice in the following instances:
- Funeral Compensation
Assistance with funeral costs - maximum of $6000 per family
- Ancillary Compensation
Assistance with counseling and crime scene cleanup fees – maximum of $3000 per family
- Dependants Compensation
Compensation for children whom were financially dependent on their loved one – maximum of $30,000 per family
Please contact QHVSG on 1800 774 744 for further information on how to apply for these funds, or for practical assistance in making an application.
If you are a victim of homicide, and was physically injured during the assault itself, you may be eligible to apply for further Criminal Injuries Compensation. Again, please contact QHVSG on 1800 774 744 to discuss this further.
 McInnes Wilson Lawyers has partnered with the Queensland Homicide Victims' Support Group to provide specialised advice on legal matters concerning our members including criminal compensation applications and personal injury/civil claims. QHVSG members can apply for a free 30-minute consultation. For further information on whether you may have access to a criminal compensation or personal injuries claim, we recommend contacting Chris McManus or Jacqui Buckley at McInnes Wilson Lawyers on (07) 3014 6516 (please see link) or contact QHVSG on 1800 774 744.
Please Note
The Queensland Government has recently reviewed Queensland's compensation scheme through the Victims of Crime Review conducted by the Department of Justice and Attorney-General. The Review examined how to make provision of criminal compensation and assistance to victims of crime simpler and easier to access. A report outlining the recommendations from the Review and frequently asked questions about the new scheme are available on the Department’s website at http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/5263.htm
As a result of the review, the Queensland Government recently announced that a new Victims Financial Assistance and Services Scheme (VFASS) will be established to replace the current scheme under the Criminal Offence Victims Act 1995. Legislation required to implement VFASS is expected to be introduced to Parliament later in the year with a view to establishing the new scheme in late 2009/early 2010. The Government is currently considering a number of issues regarding eligibility to apply for assistance under the new scheme for inclusion in the new legislation. One issue is whether and to what extent people who have existing rights under the Criminal Offence Victims Act 1995 will be eligible for new entitlements under VFASS.
The Department intends to release a consultation draft of the legislation for public comment in the near future. The Department will inform stakeholders directly and through its website when the consultation draft of the Bill is released.
If you wish to receive a copy of the consultation draft of the Bill please email your request to VFASS@justice.qld.gov.au
If you have any questions about how these changes may affect you or your family, please contact us on 1800 774 744.
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