Abuse
Law
While nothing can undo the harm caused by physical or sexual abuse, seeking acknowledgement through a civil claim can be a powerful step toward justice and healing. At AX Compensation Lawyers, we help survivors across Queensland access the legal support they need to move forward – safely and on their terms.
You’re Not Alone – We’re Here to Help
Coming forward about abuse takes immense strength. Whether you experienced abuse recently or many years ago, we’re here to support you. You deserve to understand your rights and the legal options available to you.
Many survivors are uncertain about where to begin. Some may be unsure whether they’re eligible to make a claim. Others may have already reported their experience and are now considering next steps. Wherever you are in your journey, we’re ready to listen.
We offer a no obligation, confidential consultation to help you understand your options. If you don’t wish to pursue a claim after meeting with us, there is absolutely no obligation to do so and there is no fee to be paid for the advice received.
Helpful Information for Survivors
If you’re looking for more specific information, the following pages may help:
Types of Abuse We Can Help With
At AX Compensation Lawyers, we support people who have experienced abuse in many forms. Whether it occurred recently or decades ago, you may have a right to take legal action.
We understand that every experience is different. You don’t need to have reported the abuse to speak with us. Your voice matters — and we’re here to listen.
We assist survivors of:
- Sexual abuse
- Physical abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Neglect or mistreatment in care
- Abuse by individuals in positions of trust or authority
You may be eligible to make a civil claim even if:
- The abuse occurred in your childhood
- The abuse happened many years ago
- The perpetrator is deceased
- No criminal charges were laid
Where Abuse Can Occur
Abuse can happen in many different environments, including both institutional settings and private, personal relationships. We support survivors who were harmed by individuals, organisations, or institutions that failed to protect them.
In some cases, claims can be made against institutions that allowed abuse to occur. In others, a civil claim may be brought directly against the individual responsible. We will work with you to determine the best legal path based on your situation.
Common Settings Linked to Civil Abuse Claims
Common settings link to civil abuse claims can include:
- Religious institutions (church-run or faith-based organisations)
- Schools, universities, and other places of education
- Sporting clubs, youth organisations, and camps
- Juvenile detention centres and other correctional facilities
- Foster homes, orphanages, and state care environments
- Medical settings and healthcare facilities
- Workplaces and employment settings
- The Australian Defence Force
- Government-run institutions and community services
- Family homes, neighbourhoods, or private residences
- By individuals in positions of personal trust — such as a relative, neighbour, coach, or caregiver
If You or a Loved One Has Experienced Abuse
If you’ve experienced abuse — or you’re supporting someone who has — we understand how difficult it can be to take the next step. You may have already reported what happened, or you may be speaking about it for the first time. Either way, you don’t need to face it alone.
You may be eligible to bring a civil claim for the harm you’ve suffered.This process is not about reliving the trauma — it’s about holding the responsible person or institution to account and helping you access support for your recovery and future.
We will always move at your pace and we will never pressure you to take action you’re not ready for. Our job is to listen, provide clear legal advice and help you understand your rights.
Civil Claims and the National Redress Scheme
If you experienced abuse in an institutional setting, you may have two main legal pathways available:
Civil Claims
A civil claim is a legal process that may be available if an institution or individual failed in their duty of care to protect you. These claims are brought against the organisation or person responsible for the abuse, or for allowing it to occur.
Even if no criminal charges were laid — or the perpetrator is no longer alive — you may still have the right to bring a civil claim. Many survivors choose this option because it allows for a broader recognition of harm and is often resolved through a confidential settlement.
In Queensland, most civil claims for abuse are managed under the Personal Injuries Proceedings Act 2002 (PIPA). This law sets out a process that includes formally notifying the other party, requesting relevant documents, and allowing time for resolution before court. Our legal team will guide you through every step, ensuring the process is handled with care and sensitivity.
The National Redress Scheme
The National Redress Scheme is a government-run program established in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. It provides an alternative pathway for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse to access a payment, counselling, and a personal response from the institution involved.
However, it’s important to understand that:
- You cannot bring a civil claim against the same institution after accepting a Redress payment
- Redress payments are capped and may not reflect the full impact of what you’ve been through
We strongly recommend speaking to a lawyer before applying for or accepting a Redress payment, so you can make an informed decision.
If you experienced abuse in an institutional setting, you may have two main legal pathways available:
Civil Claims
A civil claim is a legal process that may be available if an institution or individual failed in their duty of care to protect you. These claims are brought against the organisation or person responsible for the abuse, or for allowing it to occur.
Even if no criminal charges were laid — or the perpetrator is no longer alive — you may still have the right to bring a civil claim. Many survivors choose this option because it allows for a broader recognition of harm and is often resolved through a confidential settlement.
In Queensland, most civil claims for abuse are managed under the Personal Injuries Proceedings Act 2002 (PIPA). This law sets out a process that includes formally notifying the other party, requesting relevant documents, and allowing time for resolution before court. Our legal team will guide you through every step, ensuring the process is handled with care and sensitivity.
The National Redress Scheme
The National Redress Scheme is a government-run program established in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. It provides an alternative pathway for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse to access a payment, counselling, and a personal response from the institution involved.
However, it’s important to understand that:
- You cannot bring a civil claim against the same institution after accepting a Redress payment
- Redress payments are capped and may not reflect the full impact of what you’ve been through
We strongly recommend speaking to a lawyer before applying for or accepting a Redress payment, so you can make an informed decision.
What to Expect From the Claims Process
We understand that starting a legal process after abuse can feel overwhelming. Our role is to guide you through each step with care, clarity, and respect — at a pace that suits you.
Most civil abuse claims in Queensland follow a process set out under the Personal Injuries Proceedings Act 2002 (PIPA). We’ll take care of the legal steps and make sure you understand what’s happening at each stage.
Step 1 – Obligation Free and Confidential Consultation
Your first contact with us is always obligation free and confidential. You’ll speak with a lawyer who understands trauma-informed practice and will listen to your story without judgment or pressure.
In this consultation, we’ll explain the process of making a claim — including the likely timeframes, legal requirements, and the emotional impacts it may have. For some people, the process may bring up difficult memories. Our priority is your wellbeing and we want you to feel fully informed so you can make the right decision for yourself.
We’ll outline your legal options clearly and compassionately and you’ll decide whether and how you’d like to move forward.
Step 2 – Case Preparation and Notice of Claim
If you choose to proceed, we’ll help you prepare the necessary documents to begin your civil claim. This includes a Notice of Claim under PIPA, which formally notifies the responsible party or institution. We may also request relevant documents and gather supporting evidence with your input.
Throughout this process, we keep you informed and involved — but we’ll manage the technical details for you.
Step 3 – Resolution Outside of Court (Where Possible)
Many claims are resolved through negotiation or mediation, without the need to go to court. We’ll advocate on your behalf to reach a fair outcome while minimising stress and preserving your privacy.
Step 4 – Court Proceedings (If Required)
While most cases settle before reaching court, some matters do proceed to trial. If that happens, we’ll guide you every step of the way — from preparing your case to representing you in court.
You may be asked to give evidence or talk about difficult parts of your past. We will never pressure you to proceed unless you feel ready. Our job is to prepare you for what to expect, ensure you’re supported at every stage, and minimise any unnecessary stress or exposure.
We will do everything we can to make the process as safe and manageable as possible — and we’ll be by your side the entire time.
Everyone Deserves Access to Justice
We believe that financial barriers should never stand between a survivor and the support they deserve. Our No Win, No Fee legal services are here to help survivors take the next step when they feel ready. With no upfront costs and no pressure.
Our Commitment to Survivors
At AX Compensation Lawyers, we don’t just handle legal claims — we support people through some of the most difficult and personal chapters of their lives. We recognise the strength it takes to speak up, and we honour that with compassion, respect, and care in everything we do.
You don’t need to have all the answers before you contact us. You don’t even need to know if you want to make a claim. All you need is the space to talk — and someone who will listen.
That means:
- We prioritise your safety, comfort, and emotional wellbeing
- We provide clear, transparent communication at every step
- We respect your boundaries — you are always in control of how far you wish to go
- We never rush or pressure you into making decisions
- We tailor our support to your unique experience and needs
Ready to Discuss Your Claim?
At AX Compensation Lawyers, we provide compassionate support and expert legal representation to individuals injured in accidents across Queensland. Our dedicated team is committed to helping clients navigate the personal injury claims process with confidence and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abuse Claims
Can I still make a claim if the abuse happened many years ago?
Yes. In Queensland, there are no time limits for bringing a civil claim if the abuse occurred when you were a child. Even if the incident happened decades ago, you may still be eligible to take legal action. We can help you understand your options, no matter when the abuse occurred.
What if the person who abused me has died?
You may still be able to bring a civil claim, especially if the abuse occurred in an institutional setting where the organisation had a duty of care. In many cases, claims can proceed even if the perpetrator is deceased.
Will I need to go to court?
Most abuse claims are resolved out of court through negotiation or mediation. However, some matters do proceed to trial. If that happens, we’ll prepare you thoroughly and support you through every step and you’ll always have the choice to continue or not.
Can I make a claim against an individual (not an institution)?
Yes. You may be able to bring a civil claim against a person who harmed you, such as a family member, neighbour, coach, or carer, even if the abuse didn’t occur within an institution. We’ll help you assess whether a claim is possible in your circumstances.
Will my name or story be made public?
No. Abuse claims are handled with strict confidentiality. Your privacy is protected by law, and we’ll take every step to ensure that your personal details and experiences remain private throughout the process.
Can I get help applying for the National Redress Scheme?
Yes. We can advise you on whether the National Redress Scheme is the right path for you and help you prepare and lodge your application if you decide to proceed. It’s important to speak with a lawyer before accepting a payment, as it may limit your future legal options.
How long will the process take?
Timeframes can vary depending on the complexity of the claim, whether it settles early and whether it proceeds to court. We’ll give you an estimate during your initial consultation and keep you updated every step of the way.
Support Services for Survivors
If you’re experiencing emotional distress or need support after abuse, there are free and confidential services available across Australia. Whether or not you decide to pursue a legal claim, you are not alone — and help is available 24/7.
Here are some national support organisations that can assist:
Lifeline
Lifeline provides free, 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services for anyone in Australia. Their trained crisis supporters are available to talk at any time, day or night.
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue offers support for people experiencing anxiety, depression, or emotional distress. Free telephone counselling is available 24/7, and online chat with a mental health professional is available daily from 3pm to 12am.
MensLine Australia
MensLine Australia is a confidential counselling service for men experiencing emotional health or relationship issues. Qualified counsellors are available by phone and online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Headspace
Headspace provides mental health support for young people aged 12 to 25. They also offer information and services to family members and carers. Support is available online, over the phone, or at headspace centres across Australia.
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline is a free, private and confidential counselling service for children and young people aged 5 to 25. Qualified counsellors are available 24/7 via phone, email and webchat.
1800RESPECT
1800RESPECT is a national service providing confidential support for people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence. Support is available 24 hours a day, every day, from trauma-informed counsellors.
Blue Knot Foundation
The Blue Knot Foundation supports adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse. They offer trauma-informed counselling via their national helpline, as well as information, referrals, and online resources.
Bravehearts
Bravehearts provides specialist services to support survivors of child sexual abuse, including counselling, advocacy, and prevention education. They also offer information and support to family members and carers.
