Criminal Injuries CompensationPsychologist Perth WA

Cygnet Medico-Legal Psychologists is Perth's leading specialist team for Criminal Injuries Compensation (CIC) psychological assessments and reports under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 2003 (WA). With over 15 years of direct experience and group practice training provided by the Office of Criminal Compensation, our AHPRA-registered psychologists prepare thorough, trauma-informed assessments that give your claim the best possible foundation.

If you have been the victim of a criminal offence in Western Australia — including assault, sexual assault, domestic violence, robbery, or other violent crimes — and have suffered psychological harm (including mental or nervous shock, PTSD, anxiety, or depression), you may be entitled to statutory compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 2003 (WA).

A psychological report from a qualified, experienced psychologist is often the most important document in a successful CIC application. Our reports document trauma history, clinical diagnosis, psychological impact, functional impairment across work and relationships, and future treatment needs — all in the format required by the Office of Criminal Injuries Compensation and WA courts.

Self-referrals are welcome. You do not need a lawyer or GP referral to book an assessment with Cygnet. An interim payment from the Office of Criminal Injuries Compensation can be arranged to cover the cost of your assessment and report.

Who can make a Criminal Injuries Compensation claim in Western Australia?

Under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 2003 (WA), eligibility extends to primary victims who have suffered bodily injury or mental or nervous shock as a direct result of a criminal offence committed in Western Australia, and to secondary victims — such as a parent, child or partner of a primary victim, or a witness — who have suffered nervous shock. Close family members of homicide victims may also claim for funeral expenses and their own psychological harm.

What is the time limit for a Criminal Injuries Compensation claim in WA?

A CIC claim must generally be lodged within three years of the offence. The Office of Criminal Injuries Compensation may extend this period where it is just and reasonable to do so — for example, where the victim was a child at the time of the offence or where the matter was only recently reported to police. We recommend booking your psychological assessment as early as possible so your report is ready when your application is lodged.

Is a criminal conviction required to claim Criminal Injuries Compensation?

No. A conviction is not required under the Act, provided you can demonstrate that a criminal offence occurred and that you suffered injury or loss as a direct result. The matter should generally have been reported to police within a reasonable time. Cygnet's criminal injuries psychologists document the psychological harm thoroughly, whether or not charges were laid.