New resource launched
Media Statement
18 December 2024
New online resource launched for victims of property crime in Queensland
Queenslanders can now access step-by-step information to help them navigate through an often challenging and confusing time if they have become a victim of property crime.
The new online resource, launched today by Queensland’s Victims’ Commissioner, Beck O’Connor, is called ‘a victim’s pathway’. It is now available on the Office of the Victim’s’ Commissioner’s website – www.victimscommissioner.qld.gov.
The new victim’s pathway online resource aims to help victims understand the investigation and court process after experiencing property crime, and what support is available.
The resource has been developed for all victims of property crime, including property crime involving violence. For victims of violent property crime, the victim’s pathway provides information about a victim’s rights under the Charter of Victims’ Rights. Violent property crime includes physical violence, threats of violence or if the offence happened during domestic and family violence.
The online resource is fully accessible and can be used across all devices.
Quotes attributable to Victims’ Commissioner, Beck O’Connor
"We have repeatedly heard that victims of crime in Queensland find it difficult to find the right information at the right time in a way that is easy for them to access and understand.”
"Having your home broken into, having your car stolen or any type of property crime is distressing."
“For many people, this experience is the first time they have had interactions with Police or the justice system.”
“If someone is a victim of property crime, my hope is that this resource will help guide their options and choices that are right for them.”
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home.”
“For victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, property crime can be an additional violation of that safety. This resource offers vital information, including links to specialist support services and guidance on securing a protection order, to help individuals rebuild their sense of security.”
“The unfamiliar language and terminology after experiencing a crime can be overwhelming. I hope this new resource helps remove uncertainty by providing information to help victims feel informed and know where to get support if they need it.”
Explainer / fast fact and or further information
Queensland’s first Victims’ Commissioner Beck O’Connor was appointed on 29 July 2024, and will serve in the role for 5 years.
Victims of violent crime have rights under the Charter of Victims’ Rights. All government and government-funded agencies that work with victims of violent crime must uphold these rights. Violent crime includes domestic and family violence.
The Charter of Victims’ Rights includes:
- The right to receive information about the crime committed against them like:
- the investigation
- the prosecution and court matters
- bail applications by the accused
- the role of being a witness.
- Where possible, being protected from contact with the accused at court and their supporters.
- The right to have any property taken as evidence returned.
- Being treated with respect, courtesy, compassion, and dignity, with their needs taken
into account. - Having their privacy protected.
- Being given information about support services.
- Being given information about sentencing if the offender is convicted.
- The opportunity to make written submissions to the Parole Board if the offender applies for parole.
The criminal justice process in Queensland includes a number of agencies for example:
Watch: the Charter of Victims’ Rights explained (YouTube).
This is the second victim pathways resource developed by the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner. A victim pathways online resource and podcast for victim survivors of sexual violence was published by the office in September 2024 and is available online.
Visit www.victimscommissioner.qld.gov.au for more information on the role of the Victims’ Commissioner.