Experiencing a violent crime can be overwhelming. You may be dealing with the emotional impact, financial stress, or uncertainty about what to do next. At VK Lawyers, we’re here to support you with clear, compassionate, and practical legal guidance so you don’t have to navigate this process alone.
The Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) is the Victorian Government program that replaced VOCAT in November 2024. If you are seeking Financial Assistance for Victims of Crime, this new scheme provides support to eligible victims to assist with their recovery. One of the biggest advantages of the new scheme is that you do not need to attend court to apply. Our experienced lawyers can prepare, lodge, and manage your application from start to finish, making the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
What Support Is Available Under FAS?
The scheme is designed to be supportive rather than adversarial, reducing stress and helping victims focus on well-being. Depending on your circumstances, you can access financial assistance for various recovery costs.
When you seek Legal Help After Violent Crime, we help you claim:
- Counselling and psychological support to help you process what happened.
- Medical and health-related expenses arising from the incident.
- Loss of income if your injuries prevented you from working.
- Safety and security improvements for your home (e.g., lock changes and security alarms).
- Damage to clothing worn during the incident.
- Funeral expenses for close family members.
Every application is assessed individually, and the assistance available will depend on your circumstances and supporting evidence.
Who Can Apply for Financial Assistance?
The Financial Assistance Scheme recognises that violent crime affects more than the person directly involved, allowing different categories of victims to apply where they meet the eligibility criteria. You may be eligible for Victims Compensation Victoria if you fall into one of the following categories:
- Primary Victims: A person directly affected by a violent crime who suffered physical or psychological injury.
- Secondary Victims: A person who witnessed the incident first-hand, or a parent or guardian who experienced a severe emotional impact as a direct result of a crime against their child.
- Related Victims: Close family members of a person who passed away as a result of a violent crime.
There are strict time limits and specific evidence requirements for these claims. Getting early advice from an experienced Criminal Victim Lawyer ensures your application is handled correctly from day one. We help you understand exactly what applies to your situation so you do not miss out on vital support.
Seamless, stress-free, and handled by trusted lawyers.
How the FAS Application Process Works
Navigating government platforms during a difficult time can feel exhausting. The FAS system is entirely online, meaning everything is handled digitally without the need for stressful courtroom appearances.
Here is how the process moves forward:
- Initial Consultation: We listen to your story, assess your eligibility, and explain what you can claim.
- Gathering Evidence: Our team collects the necessary police and medical reports on your behalf.
- Portal Lodgement: We prepare and submit the digital application directly through the official FAS portal.
- Independent Assessment: A government assessor reviews the application. There are no opposing lawyers or court hearings.
- Decision and Payment: Once approved, financial support is paid directly to you or your service providers.
Documents Needed for a Claim
To support your application for Victims Compensation Victoria, you'll need to provide documentation that helps assessors understand the impact of the incident and your eligibility.
Our team will assist you in gathering:
- Police details: A police report number, statements, or officer details linked to the violent crime.
- Proof of injury: Medical reports, psychological assessments, or hospital records.
- Financial documentation: Tax returns or payslips if you are claiming lost income.
- Expense receipts: TReceipts or formal invoices for medical care, counselling, or security installations.
How VK Lawyers Can Help
We take the pressure off the process so you can focus on your well-being. Our Victim of Crime Lawyers provide personalised guidance, helping you understand your options, prepare a strong application, and navigate the FAS process with confidence. We offer comprehensive Legal Help After Violent Crime, ensuring you are supported with dignity throughout.
Application Preparation & Lodgement
We gather information, prepare supporting documents and submit your application through the FAS portal.
Guidance for Existing VOCAT Applicants
If you previously applied under VOCAT and your matter is still outstanding, a Criminal Victim Lawyer from our team can advise you on withdrawing, transitioning, or reapplying under the new FAS system.
Communication With FAS on Your Behalf
We manage all correspondence, respond to requests for further information, and handle any clarifications requested by the assessors.
Evidence & Documentation Support
We help collect medical reports, receipts, police documents, and supporting statements to build a robust claim.
Compassionate, Respectful Assistance
You set the pace. We ensure you feel supported and informed, never overwhelmed or left in the dark. If your matter also involves criminal proceedings, intervention orders, or other related legal issues, our team can provide advice across these areas as part of your overall legal support.
Why Choose VK Lawyers?
Here’s why clients choose VK Lawyers:
- Friendly and approachable Victorian-based lawyers who understand the local system inside out.
- Clear explanations in plain English, completely free from confusing legal jargon.
- Supportive approach that puts your emotional safety and recovery first.
- Practical, affordable legal guidance tailored to your specific recovery needs.
- A team that genuinely cares about your long-term wellbeing and recovery.
At VK Lawyers, you are never just a file number. We take the time to listen, understand, and walk beside you throughout your recovery journey.
The team, especially Vinu (Principal) and Daljeet (Conveyancer), consistently deliver outstanding service, clear communication, and strong attention to detail. Their understanding of property law and conveyancing requirements across different states makes them a trusted partner in complex transactions.
From managing tight timelines to navigating interstate nuances and keeping all parties aligned, VK Lawyers has made every transaction smooth and stress-free. Their responsiveness and professionalism are exactly what we look for when recommending legal support to our clients.
For anyone seeking a reliable legal partner on their property journey across Victoria, NSW or QLD with proven expertise in property and conveyancing — VK Lawyers is definitely worth considering.
We value the ongoing relationship and look forward to working on the next property again.
Manik Sethi
Property Buyer’s Advisory
Thanks team and look forward to working with you again in future.
Communication was consistently strong, clear and timely, Vinu and the team was incredibly responsive throughout the entire process. Everything was taken care of seamlessly, with no stress on our end.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for a reliable and professional conveyancing service — especially for SMSF transactions.
I had an excellent experience with them and would highly recommend their services. I will definitely choose Vinu again in the future if I need conveyancing support.
He took the time to explain all my options and the benefits available in a way that was easy to understand. He genuinely cares for his clients, and his professionalism and quick service made the whole process stress-free.
Their fees were very reasonable for the quality of service provided. I’m really grateful for all of Veenu’s help — he also helped me prepare my "Will", which made things even easier. I highly recommend Veenu and VK Lawyers to anyone needing conveyancing or legal support.
Veenu and Team Thank you very much
If you or someone you care about has been affected by a violent crime, we are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply for Crime Victim Support in Victoria?
To apply, you must submit a digital application through the Financial Assistance Scheme online portal. Although you can submit the application yourself, many people choose legal assistance to ensure all required evidence is included, eligible expenses are properly documented, and the application is completed accurately. Our Victim of Crime Lawyers can assist with preparing your application, gathering supporting evidence, and ensuring it is submitted correctly.
Can I Get Financial Support After a Criminal Injury if the Offender Wasn't Caught?
Yes. You can still receive Financial Assistance for Victims of Crime even if the offender has not been identified, charged, or convicted. The scheme focuses on the injury and emotional impact you experienced rather than the legal status of the perpetrator. However, the incident must generally have been reported to the police.
Who Can Provide Claim Support for Victims of Violent Crime?
VK Lawyers provides complete Claim Support for Victims of Violent Crime. We assist primary, secondary, and related victims across Victoria to navigate the FAS portal, communicate with government assessors, and secure the financial assistance required for their recovery.
Why Should I Get Legal Guidance for FAS Applications?
Obtaining professional Legal Guidance for FAS Applications helps ensure your application includes the necessary supporting evidence, meets required timeframes, and accurately reflects the impact of the crime. An experienced Criminal Victim Lawyer can also help minimise delays and guide you through the process with confidence.
How Long Do I Have to Submit an Application Under FAS?
Timeframes depend on your specific circumstances, age, and relationship to the event. There are strict application deadlines under the scheme. If you need legal help after a violent crime but are concerned about the applicable time limits, speaking with a Criminal Victim Lawyer early can help you understand your eligibility and whether an extension may be available in your circumstances.
Request An Appointment
Note: This page contains general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, please speak with one of our lawyers.