Question details
Morwell electorate
(1178) My question is for the Minister for Victims, and my question is: what is the minister doing to repair the new victims of crime financial assistance scheme, which is currently failing providers? I have been contacted by several practitioners who provide critical psychological support and grief counselling for victims of crime. They have reported they have not been reimbursed for services provided through the FAS, despite lodging all required documents, with one reporting they had not received a payment from the government since November 2024. That is seven months without payment. Still these dedicated professionals are committed to providing crucial services to vulnerable victims of crime, but they have bills and mortgages to pay and cannot go on much longer without being paid. These people have contacted the minister’s office but have been ignored. Again, Minister, what are you doing to repair the flawed victims of crime financial assistance scheme to ensure providers are being paid for the services that they provide?
The Allan Labor listened to victims of crime and service providers who told us that the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) was no longer fit for purpose and we acted, replacing VOCAT with a system that is more focused on victims.
The establishment of the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) is a once in a generation reform, and updates to make the process smoother for victims are ongoing. Since April 2025, service providers have been able to use a service provider payment request form and request payment directly from the FAS.
The FAS pays service provider invoices as soon as practicable.
To address demand on the system, the FAS has trained a dedicated surge workforce to process service provider invoices. Funding was provided in this year’s State Budget to hire additional staff for this purpose.
The Allan Labor Government continues to engage closely with key stakeholders, including through a dedicated sector advisory group, to ensure the FAS delivers the financial assistance victims expect and deserve.
Hon Anthony Carbines MP
Minister for Police
Minister for Community Safety
Minister for Victims
Minister for Racing