FAQ Hub
This FAQ hub answers common questions about intervention orders in Victoria. It is designed to provide clear, practical information for people dealing with Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIVO) and Personal Safety Intervention Orders (PSIVO).
What is an intervention order?
An intervention order is a court order made by the Magistrates’ Court to protect a person from violence, threats, harassment, or intimidation. Breaching an intervention order is a criminal offence.
What is the difference between an FVIVO and a PSIVO?
A Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIVO) applies where there is a family relationship, such as partners or relatives.
A Personal Safety Intervention Order (PSIVO) applies where there is no family relationship, such as neighbours or colleagues.
Can an intervention order be made without me being present?
Yes. The court can make an interim intervention order without you being present.
Once served, you must comply with the conditions immediately.
How long does an intervention order last?
Interim orders remain in place until the court makes a final decision.
Final orders can last for months or years and may be extended.
Is breaching an intervention order a criminal offence?
Yes. Breaching an intervention order is a criminal offence, even if the breach was unintended.
What counts as a breach of an intervention order?
A breach can include direct or indirect contact, attending prohibited locations, or communication through third parties.
Even brief or accidental contact may amount to a breach.
Can I contact the protected person if they contact me first?
No. Even if the protected person initiates contact, you may still be breaching the order.
You should get legal advice before responding.
Should I consent or contest an intervention order?
This depends on your circumstances.
Consenting without admissions may resolve the matter quickly but can still have long-term consequences.
Contesting may be appropriate where allegations are false or serious consequences are involved.
Will an intervention order affect my children?
Yes. Intervention orders can affect contact with children and may be relied upon in family law proceedings.
Will an intervention order affect my job?
An intervention order can affect employment, professional registration, and working-with-children checks in some cases.
What happens if I breach an intervention order?
Police may arrest and charge you.
Penalties can include fines, community-based orders, or imprisonment.
Do intervention orders affect firearms licences?
Yes. In most cases, an intervention order triggers an automatic firearms prohibition.
Do I need a lawyer for an intervention order?
You are not required to have a lawyer, but legal advice can be critical in understanding consequences and protecting your position.
When should I get legal advice?
As early as possible.
Early advice can prevent mistakes that are difficult to undo later.
FACING AN INTERVENTION ORDER IN VICTORIA?
The sooner you get specialist legal advice, the more options you have. Our IVO lawyers are available 7 days — including urgent same-day consultations.