Published Monday, 15 January, 2007 at 12:00 AM

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister Assisting the Premier in Western Queensland
The Honourable Kerry Shine

Increased funeral benefits for families of murder, manslaughter victims

The Queensland Government has increased the level of assistance for the families of murder or manslaughter victims by increasing funeral and ancillary payments, Attorney-General and Justice Minister Kerry Shine said today.

Mr Shine said assistance for funeral expenses would increase from $4000 to $6000 and ancillary expenses would increase from $2000 to $3000.

“The Government is committed to assist the victims of crime and increasing the level of assistance for the families of these victims is an important initiative,” Mr Shine said.

“These families are devastated by the violent death of a loved one. They should not have the added pressure of struggling to pay for a funeral.”

“Families can obtain this assistance without having to wait for the person alleged to have committed the murder or manslaughter to be identified, charged or convicted.”

Mr Shine said the Homicide Victims Support Group had made representations to the Government seeking increases in the levels of assistance.

On average, there are about 60 murders and manslaughters annually in Queensland.

Not all family members seek assistance with funeral and ancillary expenses.

Ancillary expenses include counselling for family members and accommodation and travel costs to attend the defendant’s trial.

Applications made on or after 19 July 2006 – the day of the Government’s announcement of the increased assistance – will be eligible to receive the higher payments. Applications not finalised by that date will also be eligible for the increased payment.

Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3239 6400