NSW Government to Appoint Independent Commissioner to Advocate for Victim Survivors of Crime

The Minns Labor Government is set to introduce legislation to establish an Independent Victims Commissioner, delivering on a key election commitment aimed at strengthening support for victim survivors of crime.

The Victim Rights and Victims of Crime Commissioner Bill 2025 will be introduced into NSW Parliament on Thursday. The bill seeks to create a new, independent statutory role dedicated to systemic advocacy for crime victims.

The newly appointed Commissioner will take over the advocacy responsibilities currently held by the Commissioner of Victims Rights. However, the existing Commissioner will continue to manage the Victims Support Scheme and the Victims Register for forensic patients.

Key responsibilities of the new Independent Victims Commissioner will include:

• Being formally appointed by the Governor and operating independently of Government.
• Advocating for crime victims at a systemic level and overseeing the Charter of Victims' Rights, which outlines how victims should be treated within the justice system.
• Requesting or requiring individuals or agencies to provide information or documents relating to potential breaches of the Charter.
• Preparing special reports for the NSW Parliament on issues related to victims' rights and entering into information-sharing arrangements with public sector bodies.
• Conducting research, identifying systemic challenges, consulting with victims and their advocates, and making recommendations to the Attorney General.

As part of the reforms, the Victims Rights and Support Act 2013 will be renamed the Victims Support Act 2013.

Additionally, the Bill enables the Commissioner to establish a new Victims Advisory Committee, which will replace the existing Victims Advisory Board. The new committee will include representatives from:

• The general community (including at least one Aboriginal representative)
• NSW Police
• The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
• Legal Aid NSW
• The Department of Communities and Justice

The proposed legislation follows comprehensive consultation with victims' advocacy groups, legal bodies, and justice sector stakeholders.

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

"The Minns Labor Government stands firmly with victim survivors of crime, and this legislation delivers on our promise to establish a strong, independent advocate.

"The Independent Victims Commissioner will play a vital role in shaping policy and ensuring victims' voices are heard.

"Crucially, the Commissioner will operate without government interference and will be empowered to champion the rights and interests of victim survivors."