Fresh voices sought to advise Government on victims of crime

  • Victims of crime invited to join revamped group advising Attorney General
  • Four people including those from diverse backgrounds will be selected
  • Advisory group will help resolve problems, review strategies and consider reform
  • Attorney General John Quigley is inviting victims of crime to apply to join a high-level advocacy group that will advise the State Government on victims’ issues.

    The revamped Victims of Crime Reference Group will give independent, expert advice to the Attorney General to help positively influence policy, programs and services.

    Four people will be recruited to join the group, which will be co-chaired by Commissioner for Victims of Crime, Kati Kraszlan. The Attorney General will separately choose a community co-chair of the group.

    One of the victims of crime positions will be allocated to an Aboriginal person and another to someone from a culturally and linguistically diverse background.

    They will be appointed for a two-year term, which may be extended.

    The group will also draw on the expertise of senior figures from key Government agencies, the WA Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

    The group will consider reforms of support and services for victims of crime, identify emerging risks and issues, review and evaluate strategies and contribute to problem solving.

    It will also act as a consultative forum to ensure the Attorney General receives advice that reflects a broad range of views and experiences.

    Appointments of the victims of crime members are expected to be made by the end of January. For more information and to make an online application, visit the Victims of Crime website.

    As stated by Attorney General John Quigley:

    “This State Government has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to supporting victims of crime.

    “Now with a newly-appointed Commissioner for Victims of Crime in place, we can move forward with re-establishing this group.

    “We want to make it an effective voice for those who have been unfortunate enough to be affected by crime, particularly serious crimes.”

    As stated by Commissioner for Victims of Crime Kati Kraszlan

    “There is no substitute for first-hand experience when looking at the justice system and seeing where and how it can work better for victims.

    “I welcome any victims to apply, particularly those from regional and remote areas, older and younger people, and those of different cultural backgrounds.

    “I look forward to working with the chosen victims’ representatives on the group and respect the time and effort they will bring to their roles.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.