The Government in the Australian state of Victoria is reportedly considering new proposals that would compel convicted criminals to pay compensation to their victims.
It is one of a number of ideas put forward in a Government discussion paper.
According to Attorney General Rob Hulls, the State Government wants to reintroduce the compensation for pain and suffering plan that had been abolished by a previous government.
He added there are currently some problems with the existing system, such as victims becoming distressed by the process of claiming compensation.
The new proposals being discussed would work to simplify the system with a levy being charged.
He said: “We’re also looking at whether or not, as has been introduced in other states, we should put a levy on people who are convicted of particular offences and that levy could go into a fund which could further assist victims.”
He admitted the amount of money raised would not be substantial, but added: “It sends a pretty strong message that if you do the crime, not only do you do the do the time, but you do the fine as well. And that fine will go to assisting victims.”
The current compensation system has an anual payout of approx. $34-million, and Mr Hulls feels the new system would be more beneficial.
He told an interview with ABC Radio: “It’s about having a fair system.”
