The Victims Rights Act does not guarantee victims the right to compensation or restitution for the losses and harm they have incurred as a result of an offence. However, where an injury is sustained there is a degree of compensation that is covered by ACC.

The Court can order an offender to pay a victim money if they have suffered emotional harm or had property damaged or lost as a result of a crime. This is known as reparation. Reparation can also be agreed at a Family Group Conference or a Restorative Justice conference.

The amount of reparation ordered or agreed is based on how much damage, loss or costs you have incurred and the offender's ability to pay.

The Victim Assistance Scheme, administered by Victim Support, helps victims of some serious crime in New Zealand to cover some costs related to the crime, the justice process, and your recovery. Find out more at https://victimsupport.org.nz/practical-information/financial-assistance.