The Approved Counselling Scheme provides free face to face counselling to victims of violent crimes that have occurred in New South Wales. The counsellors with the Scheme are social workers, psychologists or psychiatrists who have proven experience of working with victims of crime. Counsellors are available in most rural and regional areas in New South Wales. For people who live interstate who have been a victim of a violent crime in NSW, counselling can be organised in the state where they are now living.

The initial 2 hour counselling form is designed to be easily completed. Once it is received by the VCT, approval is given within 48 hours. There is a separate counselling form for family members of a homicide victim for 20 hours of counselling. If the victim of crime was under 18 years of age when the crime occurred, counselling may also be available to the parents or guardians. To assist you further, pamphlets on the Approved Counselling Scheme are available to view on-line on our 'publications' page.

To read more about the Approved Counselling Scheme you can choose a link that interests you from the following list or begin at the first link and read through all the headings:

who can apply

how to apply

how it works

choosing a suitable approved counsellor

location of approved counsellors in NSW

applying to be an approved counsellor

Please contact us if you have any inquiries about applying for the Approved Counselling Scheme.

24 hr Support Line & Other Options for Support

The Victim Support Line provides 24 hour information, referral and support to victims of crime.

Victims Support Line staff can provide confidential emotional support, in addition to practical information on how to access the Approved Counselling Scheme, or how to access other groups and services that may assist you in your recovery. Victims Support Line staff will also give you information on your rights as a victim of crime.

All support and information can be provided in community languages via an interpreter or by using the TTY machine.

Ph: 9374 3000 or 1800 633 063 (toll free)

TTY: 9374 3175 (for people who use a TTY machine)

You can also find practical information on the Victims of Crime website on a variety of topics including police and court processes, counselling and support services, obtaining legal redress and compensation, domestic violence and sexual assault, obtaining protection from offenders, and victims' rights.