Hi there. In Tasmania, anyone who has suffered a physical or psychological injury as a result of a crime may be able to apply for Victims of Crime Assistance. This is financial compensation that can cover the cost of medical treatment or psychological services, loss of wages, and pain and suffering. Independent Criminal Injuries Compensation Commissioners decide whether compensation is appropriate and the amount to be awarded.

Time limits apply to making an application for Victims of Crime Assistance. If you were a child at the time of the offence, you must apply for compensation within three years of turning 18 years old. Commissioners have discretion to extend the prescribed time limit in special circumstances if you lodge an Extension of Time Application. ‘Special circumstances’ is a legal term that means something unusual, uncommon or exceptional that justifies your failure to make an application within the time limit. Although each application is determined on a case-by-case basis, you will not qualify for an extension simply because you did not know about your right to apply for Victims of Crime Assistance, or you did not know about the time limit.

Suggested way forward

You should contact the Victims of Crime Service on 1300 300 238 to discuss your eligibility for Victims of Crime Assistance and how to complete an Extension of Time Application, if appropriate. You may also want to speak to a lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options. By pressing the “Consult a Lawyer” button, LawAdvisor can help you search for experienced lawyers and obtain fee proposals for their services. Costs for legal advice and representation will vary between providers based on experience and the scope of services.