Sophie Wheeler is the Chief Executive Officer of VOCAL (Victims of Crime Assistance League), an independent specialist service providing trauma-informed support to victim-survivors of crime across New South Wales, with a strong focus on the Hunter region.

With more than a decade of experience across the victim-survivor support sector, Sophie has worked extensively with people impacted by violent crime, supporting them to understand and exercise their rights while navigating complex and often re-traumatising justice and support systems. Her work is grounded in trauma-informed, client-centred practice and a commitment to meeting people where they are along the justice continuum.

Sophie is passionate about advancing victim-survivors’ rights to safety, dignity, and justice. Her work focuses on strengthening trauma-informed responses, improving access to justice, and addressing systemic barriers that impact engagement with legal and support systems. She has a particular interest in integrated and place-based responses, cross-sector collaboration, and improving outcomes for diverse and marginalised communities.

She holds a Bachelor of Social Work (Hons) and was appointed as a Community Member of the Serious Offenders Review Council in 2025, contributing to oversight and decision-making relating to serious offenders in New South Wales.

Through advocacy, partnerships, and sector leadership, Sophie is committed to driving both local and systemic change to improve responses to victim-survivors of crime.

Jen has a degree in Social Science and comes to VOCAL with over 16 years experience as a caseworker with the Department of Communities and Justice where she worked with vulnerable children and families.

Jen is committed to advocating for victims and has extensive experience working with people who have experienced trauma to empower them to create lasting change in their lives. Jen believes that supporting victims is a community responsibility and is excited to be part of the VOCAL team.

Jessica comes to VOCAL after 10 years of working as a freelance website designer, choosing a career change towards more meaningful work assisting vulnerable populations and persons impacted by crime.

Jessica studied a Bachelor of Criminology, bringing her learnings of victimology, psychological impacts of crime, and the legal process that follows to the role which enables her to better assist, support and advocate for victims of crime.

Felicity George is a dedicated advocate for victim rights, with extensive experience in community development both locally and internationally. Committed to placing the needs of victims at the center of every decision, she brings a compassionate and informed approach to her work, driven by a deep belief in justice and human dignity.

Felicity’s academic journey reflects her passion for understanding and supporting communities. She earned a Bachelor of Social Science in Humanitarian Studies from the University of Western Sydney in 2005, followed by a Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment. She later completed a Graduate Certificate in Child and Youth Studies at Southern Cross University in 2016 and is currently pursuing a Masters in International Relations at the University of Technology Sydney.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Felicity is a firm believer in the power of sport to promote health and wellbeing. She actively referees rugby league and touch football and is a Level 2 sports trainer for both local and international rugby league and rugby union teams.

In her spare time, she enjoys live music and walking in nature, embracing a balanced life that blends advocacy, sport, and personal enrichment. A lifelong learner, Felicity approaches each day with dedication, ensuring that her work not only serves communities but also keeps the voices of victims at the forefront.

Sam joins the VOCAL team with more than 9 years administrative experience, primarily in the legal sector.

With a natural ability for working in fast-paced environments, Sam believes it is essential to be empathetic, patient and have clear communication when assisting people with personal matters of a traumatic nature. Sam has a passion for helping others and is a fantastic asset to our team.

Selina is “everything finance” for our small organisation. Integral to the running of our service, Selina does an amazing job of maintaining the finances for both the non-government sector (Victim Support Unit) and the charity division (VOCAL Inc NSW). Selina is a registered Business Activity Statement Agent and runs her own successful business, Concise Accounting.

Concise Bookkeeping and Business Services Website >