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The NSW Government recognises the immense sadness that is caused when criminal actions result in the loss of an unborn child. The Bereavement Payment Scheme provides a one-off payment to victims and their immediate families when specific criminal offences are charged. This one-off payment can be used for accessing counselling and other support services.
An application may be made by:
Only one person can apply in relation to the loss.
This scheme offers a one-off payment of $3000 for each unborn child lost as a result of the criminal offence.
Only one payment will be made, regardless of family circumstances.
The payment may be available where:
A relevant offence is one set out in section 54A or section 54B of the Crimes Act 1900. There does not need to be a plea or finding of guilt for the purposes of this ex gratia payment.
All applicants must complete an application form and provide:
The Department of Communities and Justice will review the application and contact the relevant prosecutorial agency if necessary to confirm eligibility.
The Attorney General will make the decision to approve the payment.
Further information regarding eligibility for a payment under the scheme is set out in the Bereavement Payment Scheme Guidelines (PDF , 446.9 KB).
To apply, you will need to complete the Bereavement Payment Scheme Application Form, (DOCX , 48.5 KB)
You can send your completed form by email to bereavement.scheme@justice.nsw.gov.au. Include Bereavement Payment Scheme Application Form in the email subject.
The Department of Communities and Justice will review your application and respond as soon as possible.
If you have any questions about completing this application form, please contact us at bereavement.scheme@justice.nsw.gov.au. The NSW Police involved in your criminal matter may also be able to assist with some of the required details.
Download the Bereavement Payment Scheme Factsheet (PDF , 353.5 KB)
There are a number of organisations available to provide support and resources to you, or someone you are supporting, during this difficult time.
All victims of violent crime in NSW can get help with information and referrals from Victims Services.
The Victims Access Line can be contacted on 1800 633 063 between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. The Aboriginal Contact Line is available at 1800 633 063.
The Beyond Blue Support Service can provide one-on-one confidential support with trained mental health professionals, including information and referrals. Beyond Blue can be contacted via telephone on 1300 224 636, or by webchat and email.
Mensline Australia offers free professional 24/7 telephone counselling support for men on 1300 789 978.
Griefline provide specialised information and support to help prevent mental health difficulties compounded by grief and loss. Free phone support services are available nationwide from 6am to midnight (AEST) at 1300 845 745.
Under the Victims Rights and Support Act 2013.
In New South Wales, there is a Charter of Victims Rights to protect and promote your rights if you are a victim of crime. The Charter applies to all NSW Government departments. It also applies to any non-government agencies and contractors (excluding private legal officers and medical practitioners), funded by the State who provide support to victims. The Charter states how you should be treated and assisted if you are a victim of crime.
More information about the Charter, and what you can do if you think your rights under the Charter are not being met, can be found on the Victims Services website.
31 Aug 2023