Victim Support ACT has recorded a 238 per cent increase in the number of registered victims over the past four years, with the total reaching 3,343 in the 2023-24 financial year. This surge is attributed to expanded eligibility criteria and heightened awareness of available services.
Expanded Eligibility Drives Increase
The rise follows changes to the Victims of Crime Act 2016, which broadened the definition of a victim to include those affected by family violence, sexual assault, and other serious crimes. Previously, only victims of violent offences were eligible for support. The amendment, enacted in 2020, allowed more individuals to register and access counselling, financial assistance, and court support.
According to the ACT government, the number of registered victims has grown steadily: from 1,412 in 2019-20 to 2,189 in 2020-21, 2,678 in 2021-22, and 3,343 in 2023-24. The data was released in response to a question from Liberal MLA Elizabeth Lee.
Demand Outstrips Resources
The surge has placed pressure on Victim Support ACT, which operates with a budget of $4.2 million. The organisation has hired additional staff but acknowledges that demand continues to outpace capacity. “We are seeing more victims coming forward, which is positive, but it also means we need more resources to ensure everyone gets timely support,” said a spokesperson for Victim Support ACT.
The most common crimes among registered victims include assault, sexual offences, and family violence. In 2023-24, 45 per cent of registrations were for family violence, 30 per cent for sexual offences, and 25 per cent for other violent crimes.
Impact on Victims and Community
Victim support advocates have welcomed the increase, saying it reflects greater trust in the system. “Victims are finally feeling safe enough to come forward and seek help. That is a huge win for our community,” said Karen Bevan, CEO of the Canberra-based advocacy group Support for Victims. However, she cautioned that the system must be adequately funded to handle the caseload.
The ACT government has committed an additional $1.5 million over two years to expand counselling services and reduce wait times. Minister for Human Services Rachel Stephen-Smith said: “We want every victim to receive the support they need. This funding will help us meet growing demand.”
Comparison with Other Jurisdictions
The 238 per cent increase in the ACT is higher than the national average. In New South Wales, registered victims rose by 15 per cent over the same period, while Victoria saw a 22 per cent increase. The ACT’s smaller population and recent legislative changes are cited as key factors.
Critics argue that the increase also reflects a rise in crime rates. ACT Police data shows a 12 per cent increase in reported assaults and a 20 per cent increase in sexual offences over the past four years. However, officials note that many victims are now reporting historical crimes, suggesting improved confidence in the justice system.
Future Outlook
Victim Support ACT plans to launch an online portal next year to streamline registrations and provide self-help resources. The government is also reviewing the Victims of Crime Act to consider further expansions, including support for victims of property crime and financial fraud.
“We are committed to ensuring that no victim is left behind,” Stephen-Smith said. “The increase in registrations shows that our efforts to raise awareness are working, but we must continue to invest in services that meet the needs of all victims.”
