How to Apply for an FVRO in Western Australia | Step-by-Step

Transcript

Here is the thing about getting protection in Western Australia that most people do not know. You can ask the court for a family violence restraining order and have the first hearing happen without the other person being told a thing. Let me explain how. The first rule never changes. If you are in danger right now, call triple zero. For everything short of an emergency, Western Australia's Women's Helpline and the National Line can talk with you at any hour, and both numbers are on your screen. You can apply at any magistrate's court registry in the state. There is no fee.

Fill in the application and you can ask for the first hearing to be held without the other person present or even notified. Court staff cannot give legal advice, but they will explain the steps. At that first hearing, you tell the magistrate what has been happening. If they are satisfied, they can make an interim restraining order the same day. It starts protecting you as soon as it is served, and it holds while the court works towards a final order. In an emergency, the police can step in first.

They can apply for an order on your behalf, and out of court hours, they can put short term protection in place while everything else catches up. If it is happening now, ring triple zero and let them take over. This order is for family relationships, a partner or former partner, relatives, and others connected to you through family life. For a neighbor, a workmate, or a stranger, Western Australia uses a different kind of restraining order, and our separate video walks through that one. Last thing, bring your evidence with you. Messages, photos, medical notes, and dates written down while they are fresh.

The clearer your story, the stronger your application. And if you would like a lawyer to prepare it with you, our hotline is free to call any hour.