An evaluation of the Victim Assistance Scheme (VAS) has confirmed the programme is effectively easing financial burdens for victims and boosting their participation in the justice system.
Conducted by consultancy firm Allen and Clarke as part of the “Victims of Crime: Improving Outcomes” work programme, the review assessed the scheme’s performance and the impact of changes introduced between November 2022 and July 2024.
Key findings show the VAS has largely met its goals, offering equitable support across ethnicities and improving victims’ wellbeing. Updates to the scheme—including expanded eligibility and increased grant amounts—have successfully broadened its reach.
The evaluation also outlined eight recommendations to further strengthen the scheme. These include improving referral pathways from Police to Victim Support, clarifying guidelines for sexual violence and serious crime victims, and exploring culturally aligned counselling options such as rongoā Māori practices.
Read the full evaluation here: VAS Evaluation Report [PDF, 3.6 MB]