Information about the NZYQ ruling and support services for victims of crime
The decision of the High Court to release certain people from immigration detention where related to the NZYQ matter may be confronting for victims of the crimes perpetrated by these people.
Support is available – Home Affairs
VictimLink
The
Home Affairs
VictimLink service has been established within the Department of Home Affairs. This aims to coordinate contact from victims and their families so they can connect with law enforcement and essential local support services. We want to ensure that all victims and their families feel safe and supported during this stressful time. Victims should receive timely information delivered in a trauma-informed and sensitive way.
We are working with state and territory law enforcement to engage with victims and their families to offer support.
Victims and their families who use the
VictimLink service can speak with a trauma informed counsellor as part of a dedicated team. These staff can connect people to appropriate law enforcement or community support services. They can give information, including advice about the new visa conditions for people released from immigration detention after the High Court decision.
This service will ensure victims and their families can link with:
- state and territory police
- victims of crime support services
- 1800RESPECT - the Governments’ national online and telephone counselling and support service. This is for victims of sexual assault and/or domestic and family violence, or people at risk.
Accessing Support
You can access information about
VictimLink by
contacting the Department. You can also call Home Affairs’ Global Services Centre on 131 881.
If you are in immediate danger call Triple Zero (000).
The following support services are available for victims of crime or violence. They can help if you need immediate support:
Each state and territory has services to support victims of crime:
Community safety
Community safety is the highest priority of the Government.
The Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force are working with state and territory law enforcement to further support community safety. This is happening through Operation Aegis.
We are considering people affected by the NZYQ decision for a Bridging (Removal Pending) (subclass 070) visa (referred to as a BVR). BVRs will carry strict reporting and monitoring conditions. These conditions include curfews and fitting of an electronic monitoring device if appropriate.
Released persons
The Department cannot discuss with third parties the immigration status or location of another person. This is in accordance with the
Privacy Act 1988.
