- WA secures Commonwealth funding to expand specialist legal services pilot program for victims as part of Cook Government's priority to end family and domestic violence
- Funds will also provide for new victim-focused supports, as recommended by the Australian Law Reform Commission
- Pilot has assisted 135 clients with more than 1,000 trauma-informed legal supports
Western Australia has secured Commonwealth funding to extend and expand a pilot program delivering specialist, trauma-informed legal services for sexual assault victims.
The funding extension to 2028 will ensure the program continues to provide critical support to victim-survivors, helping more Western Australians feel secure at home, at work and in the community
First launched in 2024, the pilot has already had a profound impact on those who have accessed these services, which includes legal assistance and representation with integrated, wraparound services such as financial assistance, counselling, and specialist support.
It also offers support with criminal injuries compensation claims, restraining orders, and victim impact statements.
In addition, the funding will enable future trialling of non-legal services recommended by the Australian Law Reform Commission. These new services will be designed to include culturally safe Justice Navigators and supports for victims to access restorative justice pathways, where appropriate.
The Office of the Commissioner for Victims of Crime oversees the pilot which is provided by the Women's Legal Service WA, Ruah Community Services (Legal), and the Aboriginal Family Legal Service.
From January 2024 to June 2025, the pilot assisted 135 clients, delivering 1,041 services.
Coinciding with the 16 Days in WA campaign, this fresh support bolsters the Cook Government's commitment to keeping victim-survivors safe and holding perpetrators accountable, with more than $700 million in new investment since the campaign launched in 2017.
As stated by Attorney General Dr Tony Buti:
"This extension and expansion of the pilot is recognition of the genuine difference the program is making for victim-survivors of sexual assault in WA, as part of the Cook Government's work to end family and domestic violence.
"Justice Navigators will be equipped with the specialist knowledge and skills to help victim-survivors overcome the challenges and barriers often encountered through the legal process.
"Expanding access to restorative justice offers victim-survivors a pathway that acknowledges the harm they've experienced and creates a meaningful opportunity for their voices to be heard.
"I am proud to support the expansion of these services which will further improve victim-survivors experiences navigating the justice system."
As stated by Women Minister Simone McGurk:
"Victim-survivors of sexual assault deserve support that is compassionate, culturally safe, and tailored to meet their needs."
"Extending this pilot means more people will have access to trauma-informed legal assistance and new services like the Justice Navigators to help them feel supported.
"The Sexual Assault Legal Service pilot is example of how different levels of government and the community sector can work together to deliver better outcomes for victim-survivors.
"This expansion will provide real time support from the first point of contact to ensure survivors are treated with respect throughout the legal process."
