Published 29 February 2024
About this booklet
This free booklet is for people who are experiencing family violence. It has information about things you can do to get protection and feel safer. It can help you understand your options.
This booklet has information on:
- how to apply for a family violence intervention order
- how to get ready for a court hearing
- what happens at court
- where to get help.
We have information on family violence in Arabic, Chinese and Vietnamese.
Important updates
The Parentline phone service mentioned in this booklet is now closed. Visit the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing’s Parentline page for a list of other services you can contact.
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).
Updated