Positive Ways: An Indigenous say Conference 2006 When is “support”, support? Aboriginal victims of crime and the pursuit of equitable outcomes in Western Australia. Victoria Elizabeth Hovane Victim Support & Child Witness Services Perth, Western Australia.

Background: Victim Support & Child Witness Services (WA)  Key agency;  Leader;  Ongoing development;  Commitment to victims needs;  Aboriginal Victims of Crime;  Commitment to substantive equality: - Service level; - Service level; - Agency level. - Agency level.

Aboriginal Victims of Crime in WA  3.5% of WA population;  22.2% of victims;  Risk of violent victimisation = x 8 times;  Aboriginal women = 72.6% v 45% of NA victims.

Equality Two types:  Formal  Substantive

Equitable Outcomes If you want to treat me equally, you may have to treat me differently.

Needs of Aboriginal Victims: Key themes  Support – Quality v Quantity  Racism  Access [Location / Safety / Appropriate] “Windows of opportunities” “Windows of opportunities”  Information  Communication / Language

Needs of Aboriginal Victims: Key themes  Basic needs  Children  Family-focused services  Through-care: New identities, roles & practises New identities, roles & practises

Needs of Aboriginal Victims: Key themes  Self-esteem/self-confidence  Shame and blame

Best Practise Principles  Client-centred services  Safety of victims  Services to be accessible & relevant

Implications  Beyond the four walls  Beyond current concepts of “work practise”

Challenges for Aboriginal people  Learning about the system  Definitions: Culturally appropriate? Cultural security, etc?  Influencing change  Benefits & Risks?

The way forward  Core business  Ongoing dialogue  Resourcing