Project No. 46

Commenced: 1974
Completed: 1975

The original terms of reference were confined to whether the maximum amounts of compensation payable under the Act should be increased. However, the Commission was also concerned that orders for compensation were made against offenders who usually could not pay the amounts owing, leaving victims looking to the state for compensation. Also, there was no provision for compensation for victims where the offender was not brought to trial, or if brought to trial was acquitted on the ground of insanity. As a result of these additional concerns, the Commission obtained approval to undertake a complete review of the Criminal Injuries (Compensation) Act 1970 (WA).