Here’s how we help:
Supporting the child as they prepare to give evidence
PACT is by the child witness’s side for support as they view their initial police statement – the ’93A’ Viewing of Evidence’, helping them stay calm, attentive and focussed. A less distressed child is more likely to comprehend and remember their evidence.
PACT is the only organisation in Queensland specifically working to support children and young people through the court process.
This is how we make an imPACT:
Child witnesses and their families are better prepared
Children and their families have a better understanding of what to expect throughout the court process and when they give evidence in court.
Increased quality of evidence
Children are able to give better evidence because of the preparation and support received prior to, and at the time of, giving evidence.
Better preparation to give evidence
Young witnesses concentrate more and stay focussed when preparing their evidence with PACT’s impartial support, without influence or pressure from other parties.
Reduced workload for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)
ODPP’s time spent on liaison, support and education is reduced.
Reduced burden on the Queensland Police Service (QPS)
The time police officers spend on victim liaison and general support work is reduced, providing more time for crime investigation and prevention activities.
Reduced delays in court proceedings
PACT is independent and endorsed by the courts so objections to our involvement are very rare, unlike when family members are chosen as court support persons. Children are also more willing to give evidence when they feel supported.
Increased number of completed prosecutions
Evidence is considered more reliable as the support offered to children helps to maintain their composure during testimony and increases their willingness to give evidence.
Better experience through the long court journey for children and their families
The court process can be long and unpredictable, often taking up to 2 years from arrest until the child gives evidence. PACT is there every step of the way to support witnesses and empower them as they journey through the courts and on to the stage beyond.
To date, we’ve helped nearly 26,000 children give evidence in court
Learn more about PACT:
“I want to share my gratitude and say how much PACT has supported us all. I know at times it hasn’t been easy as I have been so angry this happened to my daughter. I am sorry if it has been a lot to deal with but I am sincerely grateful for PACT’s work with our family.”
“In supporting children through the court process, PACT is an organisation which provides an invaluable service to the delivery of justice in Queensland.”
“My son attended court recently as a witness. We have been discussing the whole process and he keeps coming back to what a wonderful support and awesome person his PACT Support Person is. He even stated ‘I wish she was my aunty, I’d hang out with her’. That’s huge considering he’s a teenage boy and at the stage where his friends are the only beings who exist in his world. PACT made the whole process a lot less traumatic. Thank you will never be enough.”
