It's safe to say 2020 has been a year like no other.

But while this year has been one filled with new challenges it has also been a year of achievements for us.

Alongside COVID-19 and all the changes and restrictions that came with it, our office has continued to support victims of crime in South Australia, even if it has been from a distance.

Our achievements in 2020

This year has seen our office receive more enquiries for support than ever.

Since May, we've received about 1,300 new requests, resulting in almost 5,200 follow-up enquiries.

As well, we've provided submissions on new legislation, helped victims with parole matters, simplified the victim impact statement form and refreshed our other publications.

In July we began working with our new victim counselling service through Relationships Australia South Australia. Their rebuild program provides specialist counselling for victims of crime.

Another exciting project for us was launching our new website this year. A lot of work went into making sure the information on the site is useful and easy to understand. We've received a lot of positive feedback, and we're excited to make this an even more useful platform over the next 12 months.

Looking to next year

As the year draws to a close, we've already begun looking towards the new year and our plans for 2021.

My interstate counterparts and I are looking at further acknowledging victims through a national day of recognition.

We're working to streamline how victims access court support in collaboration with the Victim Support Service.

Our office over the holidays

While the holidays are drawing closer, it's important to remember that Christmas is not always a celebration. For many families and vulnerable people it can be a difficult and stressful time.

Please find time to reach out to those who are alone or need some extra support over the holiday period if you can.

Our office will be closed from Friday 25 December until Monday 4 January, but a number of support services are still available if you need help.

Have a safe and happy festive season.

Bronwyn Killmier
Commissioner for Victims' Rights