Can You Claim Compensation After a Physical Assault in Queensland?

If you’ve been physically assaulted in Queensland, you may be entitled to compensation—even if the person who assaulted you is never charged or convicted.

At Morgan Clifford Legal Services in Brisbane, we understand how traumatic and life-changing a violent incident can be.

Whether the injury was physical, psychological, or both, it’s important to know your rights and the support available to help you recover and rebuild.

Understanding Victims of Crime Compensation in Queensland

In Queensland, victims of violent crime—including physical assault—can apply for financial assistance through a government scheme called Victim Assist Queensland (VAQ).

This is not a civil lawsuit or a criminal charge—it’s a state-run scheme that helps victims access support, treatment, and financial aid.

To be eligible, the assault must have occurred in Queensland, and you must have suffered an injury (physical and/or psychological) as a direct result of the assault.

It’s also important that you report the incident to the police, even if charges aren’t laid.

Who Can Make a Claim?

You may be eligible to apply if you are:

• A primary victim (the person directly injured by the assault)
• A witness or someone who tried to help (secondary victim)
• A family member of a person who died as a result of a violent act (related victim)

The most common applicants are primary victims of assault, including in cases of domestic violence, public attacks, and workplace assaults.

What Can Be Claimed?

Victim Assist Queensland provides financial help for a range of expenses linked to the injury. You may be eligible to claim:

• Medical and dental expenses
• Counselling and psychological treatment
• Loss of earnings
• Travel costs to attend medical appointments
• Pain and suffering (a lump sum called “special assistance”)

In total, you can receive up to $75,000 in financial assistance, depending on the severity of the injury and the impact on your life.

What If the Offender Has Not Been Caught?

You can still apply for assistance even if:

• The offender has not been identified
• The offender has not been charged
• The offender has been found not guilty

The key requirement is that you reported the assault to police and are cooperating with the investigation.

You do not need a conviction to make a claim through VAQ.

What Is the Time Limit?

Generally, you must lodge your application within three years from the date of the assault. However, if you were a child at the time of the incident, the time limit is extended.

There are also exceptions in some circumstances—especially where the assault has caused significant psychological harm or where domestic violence was involved.

It’s best to seek legal advice early to ensure you don’t miss out on entitlements because of time limits.

What If I Want to Sue the Offender?

Aside from VAQ, you also have the right to bring a civil claim for damages against the person who assaulted you.

This is a separate legal process and may be suitable if the offender has the financial capacity to pay damages. Civil claims can provide compensation for:

• Past and future loss of income
• Ongoing medical or psychological treatment
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life

However, these cases can be more complex and take longer to resolve. It’s also important to consider whether the offender is likely to be able to pay any damages awarded.

At Morgan Clifford Lawyers, we can advise you on whether a civil claim is a viable option for your situation.

How We Can Help

Making a compensation claim after a physical assault can be emotionally draining, especially when you’re focused on healing.

Our team at Morgan Clifford Legal Services in Brisbane supports clients through the entire process—from gathering evidence and completing paperwork to dealing with the relevant government departments or negotiating with insurers.

We understand how sensitive these cases are, and we treat every client with compassion, confidentiality, and respect.

Our goal is to secure the support you need to move forward with confidence.

Compensation After a Physical Assault

If you’ve been assaulted in Queensland, don’t suffer in silence. Financial assistance and legal options are available, even if the offender hasn’t been caught. The sooner you seek legal advice, the better your chances of receiving the support you deserve.

Contact Morgan Clifford Legal Services today for confidential advice about your options after an assault.

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