In a NSW first, Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVO’s) will be written in plain English using language that a 13 year old can understand so defendants have no excuse for not understanding their order.
Domestic violence is one of the most common issues that frontline police have to deal with and NSW courts and police will start rolling out the new ADVO’s across the state over the next 12 months.
NSW Minister for Justice and Police Troy Grant said the introduction of plain English ADVO will make it easier and faster for police to process the orders and protect the victims.
“We want people who are the subject of ADVO orders to know exactly what the consequences will be if they don’t comply - they can expect police to be knocking on their doors. Now the documents will spell out in plain English what the penalties for breaching an ADVO are, including up to two years in prison,” Mr Grant said.
The new ADVO’s are part of recent initiatives introduced by the NSW Government to help end violence against women.
Other initiatives include:
- Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme to be piloted in 2016
- trial of dedicated Domestic Violence High Risk Offender Teams in the NSW Police Force
- legislating to allow police to film a video or audio recording of a victim’s statement on the spot so it can be used as evidence in court.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, ring the Domestic Violence Line for help on 1800 656 463 (TTY 1800 671 442).