On 10 November 2015, Victim Support Service (VSS) in partnership with Anglicare, hosted the ‘Improving Justice and Support for Child and Adolescent Victims of Crime’ Conference in Adelaide. This event involved a diverse group of almost 100 representatives from across the non-government and government sectors with an interest in supporting young victims of crime. Conference participants heard from experts who talked about the dearth of short and long-term support available for young victims of crime and considered and discussed what should be done to address the issues.

Participants proposed two key ideas to improve services for child victims of crime: a ‘One-Stop-Shop’ for young victims of crime to facilitate support and service provision; and a children's court advocate to work directly with young victims during a court case. These two options are the basis of our Services for Child Victims of Crime Discussion Paper. 

We're seeking comments, feedback and ideas relevant to two key proposals outlined in the Discussion Paper. In addition, we are particularly interested in hearing about trauma-informed models, innovations or practices that may better meet the needs of child victims of crime.