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You can get legal protection from domestic and family violence through the courts in each Australian state and territory. There are different names for these court orders, but they work everywhere in Australia. Here, you can learn more about protection orders. You can learn how to apply for one and what it does and doesn't do.
Protection orders are legal documents that aim to protect you and any children in your care from someone who has used violence against you.
You can:
Protection orders are called different things in different parts of Australia. Each state and territory has its own application process.
You can ask a support person to help you do the application if it feels too hard to manage alone.
You have the right to be safe from abuse and violence. You are not causing trouble if you get a protection order. You are looking after yourself. You deserve a life free from fear.
Orders offer protection by making rules for the person who has used violence or abuse.
Possible rules include that the violent person cannot:
If a person breaks these rules, they may be charged with a crime.
A protection order is not the same as a criminal charge. However, if the person named in the protection order ignores the rules, they are breaking the law and can be charged with a crime.
For example, they might come to your door or send you threatening text messages. If that happens, you can call the police. The police might enforce the protection order or charge the person with a crime.
Collect evidence if the person breaks the rules, so that you can show the police. You could:
Only do these things if it is safe.
Deciding if a protection order is a good idea
People who apply for protection orders often worry about how the person who has been violent or abusive will react. The same worries can happen when you call the police.
Sometimes, violence does get worse after it is reported. Talk about this possibility with your support people and services before you apply for an Order.
You can do things to make yourself safer. For example, you can make a safety plan. Learn how on the Neve page How to be safe when you leave an abusive relationship (internal link).
A protection order is a legal document, so you must speak to a legal service or the local court. They will be able to tell you how to apply in your state.
Usually, you can either go to the police or apply directly to the courts.
Women's Legal Service and Legal Aid offer free advice.
1800 RESPECT have a searchable directory (external link) to help you find support in your local area.
This section of the website focuses on your safety. It has information to help you decide if a relationship is abusive. It shares tools to be safer in a violent situation. It talks about planning for a safer future, like if you leave violence behind. We also share tips to be safe online.
Find out moreThis section provides information about helplines - telephone and text services that offer help when you need it. Helplines can give you advice, understanding and links to practical support. Here, you can learn to choose a service that meets your needs and prepare for the call. We also share a list of helplines across Australia. If you have an emergency, call 000 (triple zero) to speak to the police or ambulance.
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