Chairperson's Report 1999-2000 8. Priorities for 2000-2001
 

• Develop a Standards Manual on the Charter of Victims Rights to facilitate agencies’ compliance with the Charter.
• Promote the 24 hours victims support line in partnership with Mission Australia to ensure that victims of crime are informed and supported.
• Implement the recommendations of a flexible service delivery team which is currently looking at the particular service needs of people with disabilities.
• Develop a VOCLink website for victims of crime which links them to key agencies and services.
• Hold a two day phone in for victims of crime to inform further ways to improve response to victims needs and rights.
• Develop new and review existing polices to improve the quality and effectiveness of service delivery, particularly in relation to applications for counselling and compensation.
• Continue to expand the practice notes on the 1996 Act on the website.
• Appointment of a duty assessor to expedite claims under the recent legislation which are clearly ineligible.
• Aim for the recovery of $3.5 million from defendants following the introduction of a computerised debtor management system.
• Host a Victims Rights Conference in partnership with Mission Australia.

In conclusion may I thank the Tribunal Staff and my fellows Magistrates, particularly Magistrate Gabb who has indicated his intention to take leave from 31 August 2000 prior to his retirement. He has been a valued and valuable member of the Tribunal since his appointment in 1993.

The staff, who sadly are subjected to discourteous behaviour over the telephone and from some persons who attend the Tribunal offices, nevertheless continue to provide a dedicated service to the public and I express my appreciation to them for their work with victims.

I should like once more to thank the Director, the Registrar and all the staff of the Tribunal and particularly my fellow magistrates for their continued assistance and support.