Domestic violence can happen to anyone, no matter their age, gender or sexual orientation

Domestic and Family Violence: Understanding Your Rights in Queensland

Domestic violence is a complex issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation.

In Queensland, the law provides a framework to protect those experiencing harm within specific relationships.

What Qualifies as Domestic Violence?

Under Queensland law, domestic violence is any behaviour—or pattern of behaviour—within a relevant relationship that is:

• Physically or sexually abusive.
• Emotionally or psychologically abusive.
• Economically abusive (controlling money).
• Threatening, coercive, or dominating.
• Control that causes a person to fear for their safety or wellbeing.

What is a ‘Relevant Relationship’?

For domestic violence laws to apply, the relationship must be:

• Intimate personal: Spouses, de facto partners, or engaged couples (including former partners).
• Family: Relationships between relatives, including elder abuse cases.
• Informal care: Where one person relies on another for daily care.

Note: If you are threatened by a stranger or neighbour, domestic violence laws do not apply.

You should contact the police to discuss other options like Peace and Good Behaviour orders.

The Domestic Violence Order (DVO) A DVO is a civil court order issued to protect the aggrieved (the victim) and any named persons (like children) from the respondent (the person committing the violence).

Standard Duration: Usually stays in place for five years.

The Rules: All orders require the respondent to be of “good behaviour.” The court can also add specific conditions, such as prohibiting contact or preventing the respondent from going near a home or workplace.

Criminal Consequences: While the order itself is civil, breaching a condition is a criminal offence.

How to Obtain Protection

If you are in danger, you can apply for a DVO at your nearest Magistrates Court registry. An application can be filed by: The aggrieved person directly. A police officer. An authorized representative or guardian. The Magistrate’s Decision: To grant an order, the court must be satisfied that a relevant relationship exists, violence occurred, and the order is necessary or desirable to protect the aggrieved.

Responding to a DVO Application

If you have been served with a DVO application as a respondent, you have specific rights and obligations:

• Seek Legal Advice: You can ask the court for an adjournment to speak with a solicitor.
• Consent: You can agree to the order on a “without admissions” basis (meaning you follow the rules without admitting to the allegations).
• Oppose: You can contest the order. The court will then set a date for a final hearing to review evidence.
• Important: A DVO can impact your Blue Card, weapons licence, employment, and visas. Never ignore an application; if you fail to attend court, an order can be made in your absence.
• Where to Find Support: We strongly recommend obtaining specialised legal advice to protect your future. 

If you think you are in Immediate Danger: Call 000 (Queensland Police Service) 24/7 Support: Contact DVConnect on 1800 811 811.