By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
A FORUM that will inform victims of crime about their rights and available support services will be held in Dandenong.
The event on 10 November, which is open to the public, includes the premiere screening of a short film telling the stories of five families who lost loved ones to crime.
Service providers such as the Department of Justice and Regulation, Victoria Police and the Magistrates’ Court will make presentations.
Department of Justice and Regulation Victims Support Agency director Clare Morton said becoming a victim of crime was often confronting.
“Most people have little experience of the criminal justice and court systems, and navigating them when also dealing with the impact of a crime can be very daunting.
“This forum will help improve understanding of how the justice system works.
“It will shed some light on the laws and services currently in place and will provide an opportunity for people to ask questions.”
Other attendees include representatives from the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal, Victims Assistance Program, Department of Justice and Regulation Victims Support Agency and Office of Public Prosecutions Witness Assistance Service.
The forum is part of Victims of Crime Awareness Week.
It is at Punthill Dandenong, 157-163 Lonsdale Street, on 10 November, 9am to 2pm (morning tea and lunch provided).
To attend, call the Victims Support Agency on 8684 6720 or email vsa.policy@justice.vic.gov.au
More information at victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au
