Australia Rights Guide
How to Get a Domestic Violence Protection Order in Australia
You can get a free domestic violence protection order from any local court or police station in Australia. Emergency orders are available 24/7 through police.
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Direct Answer
In every Australian state and territory, you can apply for a domestic violence protection order — called a DVO, AVO, IVO, or FVO depending on your state — at your local court or through police. Police can issue an emergency order immediately, even at night or on weekends. All applications are free, and most states have dedicated domestic violence support workers at courts.
What the Law Says
Your Legal Foundation
Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (QLD)
Section 44
“A magistrate may make a temporary protection order or a protection order on application by an aggrieved person or a police officer on their behalf.”
Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007 (NSW)
Section 16
“A court may issue an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) to protect a person from domestic violence, harassment, or intimidation.”
Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (VIC)
Section 74
“A magistrate may make an interim family violence intervention order without the respondent being present if the safety of the affected family member requires it.”
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a DVO, AVO, IVO, and FVO — are they different?
They are the same type of order with different names by state: QLD = DVO, NSW = AVO (ADVO for domestic, APVO for personal), VIC = FVIO, WA = VRO, SA = DVO, TAS = FVO, NT = DVO, ACT = DVO. All protect you from violence, threats, and harassment by an intimate partner or family member.
Can I get an order to make the perpetrator leave our shared home?
Yes. In every state, a protection order can include an "exclusion condition" requiring the perpetrator to vacate the shared home, even if they are on the lease or own the property, for the duration of the order.
I am on a visa — will applying affect my immigration status?
No. Australia has specific visa provisions to protect family violence victims on partner or dependent visas. You may be able to apply for permanent residence independently. Contact the Department of Home Affairs or a migration agent for advice specific to your visa.
Can I get a protection order for online harassment and stalking?
Yes. All Australian states include stalking, harassment, intimidation, and electronic communications (texts, emails, social media) as grounds for a protection order, even where there is no physical violence.
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