Support for people impacted by major motor vehicle offences
In 2023, the Victims of Crime Regulation 2000 (ACT) was amended to expand Victim Support ACT’s (VSACT) ability to support family members who have lost a loved one due to motor vehicle offence. This important change followed extensive advocacy and recommendations from the Projects Assisting Victims’ Experience and Recovery Review Report (2021).
If a motor vehicle incident in the ACT has resulted in loss of life or caused serious or permanent injury (such as grievous bodily harm), you may be eligible for support from VSACT and other relevant services.
What Support Can VSACT Provide?
Our services include:
- Case coordination, access to therapeutic supports and navigation of the criminal justice system
- Information and assistance to apply for the VSACT Financial Assistance Scheme
- Liaison with key stakeholders, including ACT Policing, the Coroner’s Court and criminal courts
- Assistance to engage with the Motor Accident Injuries Scheme through the Defined Benefits Information Service
We will talk with you about your individual circumstances and work with you to identify the supports that we and/or other services can provide.
New Significant Dates Scheme
From 1 June 2025, justice agencies — including ACT Policing, the courts, the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions and VSACT — introduced a new scheme to avoid scheduling hearings on dates that are significant for bereaved families.
This initiative arose from family concerns about the distress caused when hearings occurred on anniversaries or other important dates.
Information for People Affected by Road Trauma
Over the past year, we have worked closely with families and agencies to improve resources for family members bereaved by motor vehicle offences in the ACT.
Our Information for People Affected by Road Trauma booklet and information card, developed in collaboration with the Motor Accident Injuries Commission, were shaped by the voices of families bereaved by motor vehicle offences. They provide information about grief and trauma, as well as practical guidance to help families navigate the criminal justice system and the Motor Accident Injuries Scheme.
If you would like a hard copy or PDF of the booklet and/or the information card, please contact VSACT.
Not Sure If You’re Eligible? Please Reach Out to VSACT:
Email address
VictimSupportIntake@act.gov.au
Telephone
(02) 6205 2066 or 1800 822 272
Online
You can contact VSACT by using the Human Rights Commission contact us form.
Our office
ACT Human Rights Commission, 56 Allara St, Canberra City