NSW Makes History With First Victims Commissioner Appointment

For years, victims of crime across New South Wales have raised concerns about feeling unheard, unsupported and lost within the justice system.

Now, the state is introducing a major change designed to address those concerns.

The NSW Government has appointed Hannah Damkar as the state’s first independent Victims of Crime Commissioner, creating a new position dedicated to representing people affected by crime.

The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for victim advocacy in NSW, with the commissioner given responsibility for ensuring survivors have a stronger voice when dealing with government agencies and the justice system.

Who Is Hannah Damkar?

Hannah Damkar has been appointed as the inaugural NSW Victims of Crime Commissioner.

Before taking the role, Damkar worked in senior government positions supporting people affected by major tragedies.

She most recently served as Deputy Coordinator General for the NSW Government’s response to the Bondi Beach terror attack, where she worked with victims, families and support services.

Her previous experience working directly with survivors was a major factor behind her appointment.

What Will the NSW Victims Commissioner Do?

The new commissioner will have a wide-ranging role focused on improving the experience of victims within the justice system.

The responsibilities include:

• Advocating for victims of crime
• Monitoring the Charter of Victims’ Rights
• Identifying problems within government systems
• Reviewing complaints and systemic failures
• Recommending improvements to Parliament

The commissioner will operate independently and focus on issues affecting victims across NSW.

Why Was This Role Created?

The creation of the position follows years of feedback from victims, families and support organisations who said the justice system often failed to provide enough guidance and support.

Many survivors face challenges such as:

• Navigating complicated legal processes
• Understanding their rights
• Accessing support services
• Having their concerns properly heard

The new commissioner is designed to provide an independent advocate who can push for improvements.

A Major Change for Crime Survivors in NSW

Previously, victims relied mainly on existing government support programs and agencies.

However, the new commissioner creates a separate role focused specifically on accountability and advocacy.

This means victims will have someone whose responsibility is not only providing support but also identifying where the system itself needs improvement.

The role aims to ensure survivors are treated with dignity, respect and compassion throughout their experience.

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What Powers Will the Victims Commissioner Have?

The commissioner will have powers to examine systemic issues affecting victims.

These include:

Reviewing government responses

The commissioner can look at whether agencies are meeting their responsibilities towards victims.

Requesting information

The role includes the ability to seek information and documents related to possible breaches of victims’ rights.

Reporting concerns

The commissioner can prepare reports and recommendations for NSW Parliament.

Why This Appointment Is Being Called Historic

The appointment is being described as a significant moment because it creates NSW’s first independent voice specifically dedicated to victims of crime.

Support groups have welcomed the move, saying families affected by serious crimes have often struggled to find an independent pathway when they feel the system has failed them.

For many advocates, the role represents a shift from simply supporting victims after harm occurs to actively improving the systems that respond to them.

Victims Advisory Committee to Be Created

As part of the reforms, the new commissioner will establish a Victims Advisory Committee.

The committee will include people with lived experience and representatives from different communities.

Its purpose will be to ensure victims’ experiences directly influence future reforms.

The committee will replace the existing Victims Advisory Board structure.

How Will This Change NSW’s Justice System?

The long-term goal is to make the justice system more victim-focused.

The commissioner will examine questions such as:

• Are victims receiving enough information?
• Are government agencies responding properly?
• Are survivors being treated fairly?
• Where are the biggest gaps in support?

The findings could lead to future reforms across NSW.

What Happens Next?

Hannah Damkar will begin leading the new office as NSW’s first Victims of Crime Commissioner.

The focus will now move towards establishing the office, consulting with victims and identifying areas where the justice system can improve.

The commissioner’s work will likely shape future policies around victim support and justice reform.

Final Takeaway

NSW’s appointment of its first Victims of Crime Commissioner represents a major change in how the state supports people affected by crime.

The new role gives survivors an independent advocate who can challenge system failures, improve accountability and push for better treatment.

For many victims and support organisations, this appointment represents something they have long demanded:

A stronger voice when they need it most.