Feb 26 • 19:48 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Queensland victims of crime owed almost $50 million in restitution

Tens of thousands of crime victims in Queensland are owed nearly $50 million in restitution, with many waiting years for compensation.

In Queensland, victims of crime are collectively owed almost $50 million in restitution, stemming from crimes committed by various offenders. A significant number of these victims have been waiting for years to receive the compensation that is legally mandated. The restitution, which is intended to cover financial losses, property damage, or injury caused by criminal acts, represents a significant burden for many who have suffered as a result of these crimes. Approximately 75% of the restitution debts are either under a payment plan or are actively enforced through measures such as garnishing wages or bank accounts, and even suspending driver's licenses of the offenders. This aggressive enforcement underscores the seriousness of the restitution laws in Queensland, which aim to ensure that victims receive the financial support they need to recover from their experiences. However, the presence of over $35 million in outstanding debts for more than five years raises questions about the effectiveness of current enforcement strategies and the adequacy of support for victims. Criminologist Renee Zahnow has emphasized the need for reform to the restitution system, suggesting that allowing offenders to pay debts through community service could be a viable option. This change would not only facilitate payments to victims more effectively but would also contribute to the rehabilitation of offenders. The current situation highlights systemic issues within the system that often leave victims in prolonged distress while they wait for justice and compensation, prompting calls for urgent legislative changes.

📡 Similar Coverage