Mr MILLS - 2007-10-11
Yesterday, you said that the alleged victims of Mr Collins could claim compensation from the Crime Victim Assistance fund. However, is it not the case, because of the changes you made to that fund, no payment can be made in excess of $40 000 for all offences committed? In the past, a claim of up to $25 000 could be made for each and every offence committed. Therefore, in the past, victims of multiple offences could make claims in excess of $100 000. In light of the child sex allegations, are you satisfied that this reduction in compensation remains adequate?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, again I go to the heart of what we are talking about, and that is getting the appropriate counselling and support for any alleged victim of alleged offences by Bob Collins. We are encouraging those alleged victims to come to the Witness Assistance Service for that assistance.
We did change the scheme. It went through this House. However, the important part of what we are focusing on through the Witness Assistance Service is recovery for the alleged victim, and that is the whole focus of the assistance. We believe that is appropriate.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, again I go to the heart of what we are talking about, and that is getting the appropriate counselling and support for any alleged victim of alleged offences by Bob Collins. We are encouraging those alleged victims to come to the Witness Assistance Service for that assistance.
We did change the scheme. It went through this House. However, the important part of what we are focusing on through the Witness Assistance Service is recovery for the alleged victim, and that is the whole focus of the assistance. We believe that is appropriate.
Last updated: 09 Aug 2016