Domestic Violence
5. Obtaining an ADVO
Authors: Staff Legal Eagle
Firm / Chambers:
Last updated: 20 Jul 2015
- When you attend the police station and report an incident of family violence the police can assist you by making an application for an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) on your behalf.
- Alternatively you can also make a private application for an ADVO.
- These orders are available in all Australian states and territories although they may have different names and eligibility requirements. The following information relates to NSW.
- In order to obtain an ADVO you must be able to demonstrate:
- that you fear the person named in the application; and
- that you have reasonable grounds for that fear.
- The circumstances where you might apply for an ADVO include:
- you have experienced violence;
- you are in fear of being assaulted;
- you are in fear for your safety or the safety of other family members such as your children;
- you are being stalked by someone where you live, work or other places where you go; or
- you are being intimidated or harassed either:
- in person;
- by telephone calls;
- by text message;
- by email; or
- through social media websites such as Facebook.
- Children under the age of 16 years can only apply for an ADVO with police assistance.
- Anyone aged over the age of 16 years can apply for an ADVO with either police assistance or through a private application.
- There is no cost associated with obtaining an ADVO other than legal fees if you choose to engage a private lawyer to assist you.
- You can find out more information in our topic on AVOs & VROs .
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