Published 1 March 2020
About this booklet
This free booklet explains:
- what family violence is
- family violence intervention orders
- how an intervention order can affect you
- the role of the police
- what happens at court
- ending or changing an intervention order.
Important updates
From 26 April 2026, the law recognises that family violence may involve a wider range of controlling and coercive behaviours. These include:
- stalking
- mistreating an animal
- systems abuse (using the courts, police or other agencies to harm, control or intimidate someone).
From August 2023, if a respondent breaches an undertaking, an applicant can no longer take an earlier application back to court. They will need to make a new intervention order application.
From February 2023, the appeals process has changed. To appeal the magistrate's decision about a final order, you will need to show that the magistrate made an error when deciding your case. You must appeal within 30 days of the magistrate's decision.
If you want to appeal, get legal advice first. Visit Other support for violence, abuse and personal safety.
Updated