AAPi is working with Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) on a project to review their fees and processes. If you do VLA work, please complete the survey here.
This project was sparked by AAPi members - special thank you to these individuals.
Background
Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) is currently reviewing the fees paid to psychologists, psychiatrists and neuropsychologists for expert mental health reports in criminal law matters. It is also reviewing the guidelines and processes that apply to obtaining these reports.
Considering changes to fees, processes and guidelines
VLA fees for expert mental health reports are provided at two levels: the standard VLA fee and a higher fee referred to as a 'special disbursement' which is based on an amount quoted by the mental health professional. VLA's grants guidelines provide that the special disbursement fee is only available in exceptional circumstances and is subject to a more rigorous approval process than the standard fee.
VLA has received several submissions from psychologists that the current standard fee level is too low and does not adequately remunerate the time, expertise and costs required to provide expert reports of an appropriate quality. Increasingly, mental health professionals are requesting higher fees through the special disbursement process.
VLA is seeking to assess the appropriateness of current fee levels. VLA is also seeking advice on the processes that apply and whether the guidelines should be reframed, noting that VLA is working within budget constraints.
Review process
VLA has engaged Keren Murray, an independent consultant, to conduct the review. The review process involves extensive consultation with stakeholders, together with document review and data analysis. The outcome of the review will be provided to VLA for consideration in a report with findings and recommendations.
Next steps
Keren is seeking psychologists' views through the Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi) on the issues outlined in the questions below. AAPi is coordinating the process. You are welcome to contact Keren directly at [email protected] if you have any questions or further feedback.
Complete the survey.
If you have colleagues who do VLA work, please share this survey link or the QR Code with them and ask them to complete the survey.
