Request an internal review

If you do not agree with a decision that we've made in relation to an application for victims support under the Victims Rights and Support Act 2013, you can apply for an internal review.

What is an internal review?

An internal review is a fresh look at an application or claim. It is undertaken by a different person than the one who made the original decision. This process is an opportunity for you to give us more information or evidence to support your request for victims support

You may request an internal review in relation to your application for:

• counselling
  
• financial assistance for immediate needs, including the Immediate Needs Support Package
  
• financial assistance for economic loss
  
• a recognition payment.
  

The internal review can involve a review of the entire decision or be limited to a particular aspect of the decision, such as a decision in relation to a specific support type or expense.

How long do I have to lodge an internal review?

You have 90 days from the day after you were notified of the decision to apply for an internal review. You need to provide all supporting documents and information you want considered as part of the review within this 90 day period. 

How do I apply for an internal review?

Please fill out the Application for an Internal Review (PDF, 697.4 KB). 

As part of your application, you can let us know:

• the reasons you disagree with the decision
• if there is any information that you’ve already given us that you would like us to reconsider
• if you have any new information or evidence that you’d like us to consider, such as a police report, a report from a government or government-funded organisation, or medical, dental or counselling reports. Visit Supporting documents to learn more about these reports and access optional forms to help you gather this information. 

Where do I send my request for an internal review?

Please send your completed internal review application to us by:

• email to: vs@dcj.nsw.gov.au

• mail to:
  Commissioner of Victims Rights 
  Victims Services
  Department of Communities and Justice
  Locked Bag 5118 
  Parramatta NSW 2124

What happens next?

We’ll write to you by email or post to let you know that we have received your request.

We will commence an internal review after we get confirmation that all evidence has been provided or when the 90 day period ends, whichever comes first. We will notify you of the outcome within 42 days of this commencement date.  

What can I do if I disagree with the internal review decision?

If you disagree with the internal review decision in relation to your application for a Recognition Payment, you may lodge an appeal with the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). You need to do this within 28 days from the date you are notified of the internal review decision. NCAT are unable to consider applications in relation to counselling or financial assistance.

For more information about making an application to NCAT, call 1300 006 228 or visit the NCAT website.