17310 (2025). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister of Justice

17310 (2025). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister of Justice: Is the Chief Victims' Advisor correct that victims of crime are referred to the civil justice process to recover restitution awards made in criminal cases?

Hon Paul Goldsmith: I cannot comment on the Chief Victims’ Advisor’s experience; however, I have been advised that a sentence or order of reparation is enforced under Part 3 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 in the same way as a fine, although payment of reparation has priority over payment of fines. The collection and enforcement of reparation orders does not impact a victim’s rights to bring separate civil proceedings to seek remedy for harm, loss, or damage caused by another person or entity. I am advised that there are a range of methods of enforcing reparation, including attachment orders against the offender’s salary or wages, deduction orders against their bank account, or a warrant to seize their property. The victim is not responsible for any costs or decision-making in this process.