Transcript: Victims’ Rights Charter video
In Queensland, there is a Charter of Victims’ Rights.
If you have been a victim of violence, you have rights.
You may have been the victim of an assault, a sexual offence, domestic violence, or other personal crimes.
You may be a close family member of a person that has died in a homicide.
You can expect government and government-funded agencies to treat you with respect, courtesy, compassion and dignity.
Your personal information cannot be shared unless the law allows it.
You can expect to be given information about services that can help you recover.
You have rights in the criminal justice system.
You can expect to receive information about the police investigation; decisions about the prosecution of the accused person; if arrest warrants or other warrants are issued, who is charged and what they are charged with; and if the accused accepts a plea to a lesser or different charge.
You should be told about court processes, hearing dates, attending court, the trial process and your role as a witness.
You will be informed about any programs available to the accused person in relation to the crime.
You can expect to be informed about the results of the court case, including the sentence and outcome of any appeals.
You have the right to information about bail applications, outcomes, and release arrangements, including any special conditions that may impact on your safety or welfare.
You can expect to be protected at court from unnecessary contact with the accused person, family members or friends.
You can make a victim impact statement at sentencing expressing how the crime has harmed you.
You can expect to have any of your property held for an investigation or as evidence returned as soon as possible.
Many victims have rights when the offender goes to prison.
If you are eligible to be registered on a victim register, you have the right to information about the offender’s period of imprisonment or escapes from prison.
You can expect to be given the opportunity to write to the parole board about granting parole to the offender.
If you believe these rights have not been upheld, you have the right to make a complaint.
If you believe the Queensland Government agency or non‑government organisation has not met your rights, or you would like more information about victims’ rights or services please contact Victim Assist Queensland at victimassist@justice.qld.gov.au or call 1300 546 587 during business hours.
Visit our website for more information about victim rights and victim registers.