Victim of violent crime (including family violence)

In determining whether a client has an exceptional circumstance for not reapplying before their expiry date on the grounds of being a victim of a violent crime, the client must have experienced the following during their notice period:

• been directly affected by a crime committed by another person which affected their ability to reapply before the expiry date and
• suffered physical or emotional harm which affected their ability to reapply before the expiry date

Note in all cases if MSD believes that a client has been, or is likely to be harmed (physically, emotionally or sexually) the situation must be discussed with a Family Violence Response Co-ordinator.

MSD will consult with the regional Family Violence Response Co-ordinator for advice regarding what evidence should be required. Evidence could include:

• a personal statement or
• a statement from a professional (such as the Police or a social worker)