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Message from the Attorney-General
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| Despite
the fall in reported crime, the statistics still show too many
people become victims of crime. The effects of crime can be
devastating. Victims often suffer a range of psychological and
social injuries long after their physical wounds have healed or
their property has been replaced or repaired. It is important that
those victims who want help, get it. It is also important that
victims know their rights.
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| The
Information
for Victims of Crime booklet provides information about
victims’ rights, coping with the effects of crime, and the
criminal justice system for adult and young offenders. It also
includes information about state-funded victim compensation and a
directory of services to help victims deal with the effects of
crime.
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| It
was once cliché to call victims of crime ‘the forgotten people’
in our criminal justice system. Thankfully that is no longer true.
Victims of crime have a critical role to play in our criminal
justice system. Without their willingness to report crime, to
co-operate with investigators and prosecutors and to testify in
court, it is likely that our criminal justice system would crumble.
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| Whether
you are a victim or a person assisting a victim, this booklet
answers some of the most common questions I hear from victims, their
families and friends. It would be impractical to answer all your
questions in one booklet, so I urge you to ask the police, the
prosecutor or other public official who can follow-up on questions
of particular interest to you.
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| Should
you feel the trauma is overwhelming you might seek professional
assistance. Organisations such as the Victim Support Service, Road
Trauma Support Team and Rape and Sexual Assault Services can support
you. There are also specialist services such as the Child Protection
Services and various domestic violence services, as well as
self-help groups, for example, the Homicide Victims Support Group.
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| If
you are reading the booklet (or this website) as a victim of crime,
I regret that you have become a victim. I cannot undo the crime but
I hope this booklet helps as you come to terms with what has
happened and that you will once again feel safe, secure and
supported. |
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John Rau
Deputy Premier
Attorney-General
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| Last Modified: 31 January 2012
URL: http://www.voc.sa.gov.au
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