Police Safety Orders

A Police Safety Order (PSO) protects individuals from immediate violence, harassment, or intimidation. Police can issue a PSO if they believe domestic violence has occurred or may occur, without requiring the consent of the person at risk. PSOs typically last one to two days, up to a maximum of five days, with the expiry date listed on the Order.

When a Police Safety Order is Issued:

The respondent must leave the address while the Order is in force, even if they own or live there.
They must not assault, threaten, intimidate, or harass the protected person or encourage others to do so.
They cannot follow, stop, or contact the protected person in any setting (home, work, public places).
All firearms and firearm licenses must be surrendered to the Police.
The PSO protects any children living with the protected person, suspending any Parenting Orders or agreements that allow respondent access.
Police may detain the respondent for up to two hours to issue and serve the Order.
There is no right of appeal against a PSO.

Breaching a Police Safety Order:

If a PSO is breached, Police can charge the respondent and bring them before the Court. The Court may also issue a warrant for their arrest.