If you receive a summons or subpoena to attend court to give evidence, you can claim expenses for a number of things:
- Travel. The CDPP will reimburse reasonable travel expenses. It will also arrange and pay for flights and associated costs if you are travelling from interstate or overseas.
- Accommodation. If you have to stay away from home the CDPP will usually arrange and pay for your accommodation.
- Meals. The CDPP will reimburse you for meals when you go to court up to the maximum amount specified in the guide. You must provide your receipts.
- Loss of income. If your employer won’t pay you for the time you’re required to attend court, you are able to claim the lost wages or earnings that you would normally have been paid up to the maximum amount specified in the Guide to Claiming Witness Expenses.
- Other items. You may also be reimbursed for other reasonable incidental expenses associated with attending court. You should not assume you will be reimbursed for incidental costs and should talk to the prosecutor or witness assistance officer before incurring expenses.
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How do I claim witness expenses?
- Fill in a witness expense claim form and return it to the CDPP with all the information requested.
- Use our Guide to Claiming Witness Expenses to complete the form.
How long will it take for my witness expense claim to be processed?
We aim to process witness expense claims within 14 days. You should lodge your claim as soon as possible after going to court.
Who can answer my questions about witness expenses?
Your prosecutor is the best person to answer any questions you may have.