Video chapters
Quick answer
Ask the court registry or your state Legal Aid commission about the duty lawyer before the hearing. Also contact the Family Advocacy and Support Service, a community legal centre, a Women's Legal Service or an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service. Representation is not guaranteed, so apply early.
What to do
- Registry — Ask what duty-lawyer service attends your court
- Legal Aid — Apply under your state or territory's means and merits tests
- Specialist — Contact FASS, a CLC, WLS or ATSILS
- Prepare — Bring the application, orders, evidence and court date
Transcript
A domestic violence court date is close and you cannot afford a private lawyer. Free help may be available, but it comes through several services and the level of help differs. Start with the court registry and the Legal Aid commission for your state or territory, then contact specialist services.
Many courts have a duty lawyer who can explain the process, negotiate limited issues, seek an adjournment or appear in some matters. Availability and eligibility vary. Ask the registry which service attends, when to arrive and whether you need an appointment. Do not assume the duty lawyer can run a contested hearing.
Apply to the state or territory Legal Aid commission as early as possible. Family Advocacy and Support Services help people affected by family violence who also have family-law issues. Community legal centres, Women's Legal Services, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services and family-violence prevention legal services may also assist.
Bring every application, interim order, police document, affidavit, message or photograph you rely on, proof of income and the notice showing the next court date. Write the result you want and any safety concern. If you need an interpreter, disability support or a safety plan at court, request it early.
If a free service cannot represent you, ask what it can do and whether an adjournment is appropriate. Go To Court provides general information at any hour. It can arrange a fixed sixty-minute consultation for two hundred ninety-five dollars where a suitable lawyer is available.
Sources and further help
Sources checked 3 September 2026.
Important
This video provides general information about domestic violence proceedings and legal assistance in Australia. It is not legal advice and does not take account of your circumstances. Laws, procedures, fees and time limits can change, and state or territory rules may apply. Get advice from a qualified lawyer about your situation.