Victim/offender mediation
Victims Support Services is able to provide victim/offender mediation where appropriate. Requests for victim/offender mediation can be received from either the victim of the crime, the family of the victim and/or the offender.
A formal process will be undertaken before victim/offender mediation occurs. This includes:
- ensuring both the victim and offender are prepared to take part in mediation
- finding out what each party expects from mediation
- finding out if the expectations of both are reasonable and are likely to be met
- ensuring as much as possible, that the process will be positive for all concerned
- ensuring the safety of all involved is not compromised
Victim/offender mediation will only occur if the above criteria are met and will include pre- and post-counselling for both the victim and offender.
The services of a trained professional mediator will be sourced if victim/offender mediation is deemed suitable. The mediator will work with the Victims Assistance Unit to deliver the mediation session and any pre- and post-mediation work required.
Victim/offender mediation is not a court ordered process and should only take place between consenting parties.
If you would like to explore this option, then please telephone the Manager of Victims Support Services on 03 6233 5002 or 1300 663 773.