Criminal Injuries Compensation
Criminal Injuries Compensation (CIC) is a state‑funded scheme that provides financial compensation to people who have suffered physical or psychological injury as a result of a criminal offence committed in Western Australia. This compensation is governed by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 2003 (WA) and is administered by the Office of Criminal Injuries Compensation (OCIC).
Importantly, compensation is paid by the State, not the offender, although the government may later try to recover the money from the offender.
Who can apply?
You may be eligible to apply if you are:
1. A Primary Victim
Someone directly injured (physically or psychologically) by a criminal offence.
2. A Secondary or “Indirect” Victim
Certain close relatives of a primary victim may claim in limited circumstances — for example, for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, or psychological harm arising from an offence. Eligible relatives include:
• Parents or step-parents.
• Grandparents.
• Spouse or de facto partner.
• Children, step‑children, or grandchildren.
You can apply even if the offender is not identified, not charged, or found not guilty, provided there is enough evidence to establish that an offence occurred.
