PERSONAL SAFETY INTERVENTION ORDER

Apply, Defend or Respond with Confidence

If you are dealing with harassment, threats, stalking, or unwanted contact, a Personal Safety Intervention Order (PSIO) can provide legal protection. Whether you need to apply for an order or defend an application made against you, understanding your rights and the court process in Victoria is essential. These are governed by the Personal Safety Intervention Order Act 2010.

Our experienced lawyers assist clients across Victoria with applying for, defending, and varying Personal Safety Intervention Orders, providing clear advice and strong representation every step of the way.

What is a Personal Safety Intervention Order?

A Personal Safety Intervention Order (PSIO) is a court order designed to protect a person from behaviour that causes harm, fear, or distress where there is no family relationship involved.

PSIOs typically apply in situations involving:

Personal Safety Intervention Order
  • Neighbours
  • Friends or acquaintances
  • Work Colleagues
  • Strangers

This is different from a Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO), which applies to family or domestic relationships.

When Can You Apply for a PSIO?

You may be eligible to apply for a PSIO if someone has:

  • Assaulted or threatened you
  • Stalked or followed you
  • Harassed or intimidated you
  • Damaged your property
  • Engaged in behaviour that makes you feel unsafe

The court must be satisfied that:

  1. The respondent has committed prohibited behaviour; and
  2. The order is necessary to protect your safety or prevent further conduct

Conditions of a Personal Safety Intervention Order

If granted, a PSIO can impose conditions such as:

  • No contact with the protected person
  • Not approaching or coming within a certain distance
  • Not attending specific locations (e.g. home or workplace)
  • Restrictions on communication (calls, texts, social media)

Breaching a PSIO is a criminal offence and can result in serious penalties.

Applying for a PSIO in Victoria

The process generally involves:

  1. Filing an application at the Magistrates’ Court
  2. Attending a first mention hearing
  3. Negotiation or contest (if the order is opposed)
  4. A final hearing before a Magistrate (if necessary)

In urgent situations, the court may make an interim order to provide immediate protection before the final hearing.

Defending a PSIO Application

If you have been served with a PSIO application, it is important to act quickly.

You may choose to:

  • Consent to the order (with or without admissions)
  • Negotiate undertakings or modified conditions
  • Contest the application at a hearing

Defending a PSIO requires careful preparation, including:

  • Reviewing the allegations
  • Gathering evidence and witnesses
  • Preparing court submissions

A PSIO can significantly impact your life, including employment and personal relationships, so it is important to get legal advice early.

Varying or Revoking an Existing Order

If circumstances change, you can apply to:

  • Vary the conditions of an order
  • Extend the duration
  • Revoke (cancel) the order

We can assist in preparing and presenting these applications effectively.

Why Choose Our Lawyers?

We provide:

  • Clear, practical legal advice
  • Strong representation in the Magistrates’ Court
  • Strategic defence for contested hearings
  • Support throughout the entire process

We understand that intervention order matters can be stressful and urgent, and we work quickly to protect your interests.

Why Choose Our Personal Safety IVO Lawyers?

  • Experienced in Victorian intervention order law
  • Strong courtroom advocacy
  • Compassionate, confidential advice
  • Fast response for urgent situations

We understand these matters are sensitive and often time-critical. Our team works to protect your rights while achieving the best possible outcome.

Get Urgent Legal Advice Today
If you need help with a Personal Safety Intervention Order in Victoria, we’re here to assist.

Contact a personal safety intervention order lawyer confidential advice and immediate support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an PSIO a criminal charge?
No. An PSIO is a civil order. However, breaching it is a criminal offence.

Can I contest an intervention order?
Yes. You have the right to attend court and challenge the application.

How long does an PSIO last?
It depends on the case. Orders can last from months to several years.

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