Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) – Help for Victims of Crime in Victoria
If you’ve been harmed by a violent crime, you may be entitled to financial support through the Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS). Bastion Legal provides clear guidance and respectful, trauma-informed representation so you can focus on recovery.
Who’s Eligible
Primary, secondary, and related victims of violent crime in Victoria.
What’s Covered
Treatment, counselling, lost income, safety expenses, funeral costs, and other crime-related needs.
The Process
Apply through the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS); decisions can be reviewed if refused.
How We Help
Free consultation, evidence gathering, application support, respectful trauma-informed advice.
FAS at a glance
The Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) is a Victorian program that helps people who have suffered physical or psychological injury because of a violent crime. It can contribute to treatment costs, lost income, safety needs, funeral expenses, and other reasonable costs directly linked to the offence.
You may be eligible as a primary victim (injured by the violent act), a secondary victim (witness or parent/guardian of an affected child), or a related victim (close family or dependent of a person who died). Whether the crime involved assault, sexual violence, family violence, or other criminal harm, we can explain your rights and next steps.
What FAS can help pay for (typical items): treatment and counselling, reasonable safety expenses, some lost earnings, funeral costs where a death occurred, and other crime-related expenses recommended by your treating professionals.
How we help
Navigating FAS can feel overwhelming when you’re already dealing with the impact of crime. We take care of the legal process from start to finish.
We confirm your eligibility, prepare and lodge your application, gather strong medical and supporting evidence, liaise with the FAS registry and service providers, and - if your application is refused or underpaid - we challenge the decision through internal review or, where appropriate, formal hearings.
Throughout, you’ll receive clear advice, steady communication, and compassionate support.
FAQ
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If you are considering applying for financial assistance under Victoria’s Financial Assistance Scheme, it is important to be aware of the time limits that may apply to your claim.
The time limit depends on the type of offence and the age of the victim at the time of the violent act.
If the victim was an adult (18 years or older at the time of the incident):
Sexual offences or family violence
You have 10 years from the date of the last violent act to apply.
All other offences (not involving sexual or family violence)
You have 3 years from the date of the last violent act to apply.
If the victim was a child (under 18 at the time of the incident):
Child abuse or family violence
There is no time limit to apply.
All other types of offending (not involving child abuse or family violence)
The application must be made before the victim turns 21 years old.
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In some cases, it may still be possible to apply outside the usual time limits, particularly if there are exceptional circumstances, such as trauma-related delay or if the victim was unaware of their right to apply.
At Bastion Legal, we can advise you on whether your application may still proceed and assist in preparing any necessary request for an extension of time.
We recommend speaking with us as early as possible to ensure your application is made within the required timeframe.
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Acts of violence such as assault, sexual offences, family violence, stalking, and homicide are covered. Contact us if you are unsure whether your experience qualifies.
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In many cases, our legal fees can be covered under the scheme. We can discuss this with you during your consultation.
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We can assist you in appealing the decision or requesting a review. There are strict timeframes for doing so, so it is important to act quickly.
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A police report is usually required, but exceptions may apply, particularly in sensitive cases such as sexual assault or family violence. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Why choose us…
We specialise in helping victims of crime and understand the emotional, financial, and safety pressures that follow an incident. You’ll work directly with an experienced lawyer who listens, believes you, and tailors the strategy to your situation.
Costs are transparent. We keep fees clear from the outset and cover the cost of essential evidence where possible so you are not burdened with loan agreements for reports.
Our goal is simple: make the process easier, protect your rights, and secure the support you need to move forward.
Contact us
If you believe you may be eligible for assistance under the Financial Assistance Scheme, contact Bastion Legal today for a free and confidential consultation. We can help you understand your options and take the next steps with confidence.
Call us now or submit your enquiry through our online contact form.
