About
The Mission Australia Court Support Service provides information, support, advocacy and referral to victims and witnesses of crime who are attending court. Emotional and practical support is delivered in a non-judgmental, empathetic and professional manner, respecting diversity and client self-determination. We support victims and witnesses by informing them about their rights and responsibilities; advising them of court protocols and processes; being a support person at court; preparing them for giving evidence and cross-examination; advocating for their needs; helping with Victim Impact Statements, including reading them out in court; and providing information about accessing counselling, victims' compensation and other services.
Who we assist
We assist victims and witnesses of crime with a focus on vulnerable members in the community, including people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, people with disabilities, women and young people. Around half of all the victims and witnesses that we support are dealing with domestic and family violence (DFV) or sexual assault matters.
Eligibility criteria
Primary or secondary victims of crime required to appear at court.
Referral process
We receive referrals from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Witness Assistance Service (WAS), NSW Police Service, Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS) and other support service providers, as well as self-referrals.