We recognise the diversity of Aboriginal Communities across Victoria. When referring to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Victoria, the term ‘Aboriginal’ is used for consistency with existing initiatives in Victoria.
Other terms, such as ‘Koori’, ‘Indigenous’ and ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander’ are retained in the names of programs, publication titles and in reference to published data.
Using this language is not intended to deny the right of Aboriginal people to determine the way in which they are referred.
At Victims, Redress and System Reform (VRSR) we value diversity, inclusion and social justice. We are committed to continuing to work in partnership with Aboriginal Communities to better meet the needs of Aboriginal victims of crime.
VRSR programs and services are informed by Victoria’s Aboriginal Victims of Crime Strategy. The strategy provides a 10-year vision towards more holistic, victim-centred and culturally safe victim supports for Aboriginal victims of crime across Victoria.
This means that, when you access VRSR programs or services, you can be confident we will provide a service that is affirming and inclusive for Aboriginal Community members.
Culturally responsive services for Aboriginal people
Aboriginal Engagement Workers
The Victims Assistance Program (VAP) is a network of community-based agencies delivering support services to victims of crime against the person across Victoria.
The VAP offers flexible case management services for victims of crime, which can include organising counselling, assisting with court preparation and providing information on protecting personal safety.
Aboriginal Engagement Workers are employed by the VAP so that Aboriginal clients can choose to receive support from an Aboriginal person if that is their preference.
This service is free and available by contacting the Victims of Crime Helpline.
Open:
8 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday
8 am to 5 pm Saturday, Sunday and public holidays
Call: 1800 819 817
Text: 0427 767 891
Djirra
A legal service that supports Aboriginal people who are experiencing or have experienced family violence (all genders). They can also assist non-Aboriginal people experiencing family violence who are parents of Aboriginal children.
Open: 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday
Call: 1800 105 303
Website: Djirra
Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
Legal advice and representation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria community.
Call: 1800 064 865
Website: Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)
Elizabeth Morgan House Aboriginal Women's Service
Elizabeth Morgan House provides a range of supports to Aboriginal women and children experiencing family violence from crisis through to recovery.
Open:
9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Thursday
9 am to 4 pm, Friday
Call: (03) 9403 9400
Website: Elizabeth Morgan House Aboriginal women's service
Support for Aboriginal people experiencing family violence
If you experience violence in your family or relationship in Victoria, services are available to give you support and assistance. For information on specialist family violence services, visit our Information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities page.
Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) – Marra Yattakunar Pathway
The Marra Yattakunar is a dedicated pathway that Aboriginal people can use offering assistance with FAS. They also help to develop cultural support plans, to ensure a person’s recovery needs are understood in the process and outcome.
Open: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays
Call: 1800 849 778
Website: Marra Yattakunar Pathway
Victoria Police – Liaison Officers
Victoria Police have Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (ACLOs) and Police Aboriginal Liaison Officers (PALOs) available around the state. They work to assist communication and build relationships between Aboriginal Communities and the police.
You can report a crime to any police officer in Victoria Police by contacting your local police station but, if the matter is not urgent, and you would like to speak to an ACLO, PALO or other liaison officer, you can ask your local police station. Further information about reporting a crime, visit our How to report a crime page.
There are good reasons to report a crime, but if you are not ready to do that yet, or do not want to involve the police, you can still get help. Talking to a trusted person, like a counsellor, family member, doctor or friend can be a good first step and they can help you talk to the police or other services if you want them to.
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