As of 1 January 2026, police now have the power to issue on-the-spot 12-month Police Protection Directions (PPD’s) for the purpose to stop threats or acts of domestic violence.

PPD’s can be issued by police when responding to a domestic violence incident that lasts for 12 months (and has immediate effect) and has certain conditions attached to similar to Protection Orders which is issued by a Magistrate. 

A PPD involves three types of people: 

• The aggrieved – the person who is subject to the domestic violence;
• Named persons – other people who may also be at risk, such as children, family members; and
• The respondent – the person who is perpetrating the domestic violence.  

When can Police issue a PPD?

Police may issue a PPD if they reasonably believe: 

• Two or more people have a relationship covered by the law;
• A person has used domestic violence; and
• It is a paramount consideration that a PPD is necessary for your safety and protection.

What does a PPD require? 

If police issue a PPD on the respondent, then he or she must abide by the conditions of it.  If they do not, it is a serious offence.

Some examples of standard conditions of a PPD are these: 

• That the Respondent be of good behaviour towards the aggrieved;
• That the Respondent must not harm, both physically and psychologically, the aggrieved;
• That the Respondent must not commit an act of domestic violence;
• Not facilitating through another person, threats or acts of domestic violence;
• That there be no contact between the Respondent and the aggrieved;
• That the Respondent stay away from the aggrieved’s workplace; and
• Returning to collect personal belongings only when police present

What if you don’t agree with the Police issuing a PPD?

You can request a police review of the PPD within 28 days of the PPD being issued.

Police Review

Only certain people can apply for a police review:

• The Respondent;
• The Aggrieved;
• A named person on the PPD; and
• An authorised person acting for the aggrieved (such as a Lawyer).

When an application for police review is received,  a Reviewing Officer (Senior Sergeant or Inspector) will review it and the reason it was given.  The Reviewing Officer may decide the PPD stay in place and the Respondent, aggrieved or any other named parties on the PPD will be notified of the decision.

Court Review

You can apply for a Court review at any time while a PPD is in force. At the hearing, the Court hears all the evidence and decides the outcome of the review.

At RMO Law, we can assist you with preparing the necessary documentation for the application as well as appearing on your behalf.  The application for a Court review will be listed before a Magistrate within 14 days of filing the material with the Court.

Seek Legal advice from a Criminal Lawyer at RMO Law

If you are served with a PPD, it is important that you contact us immediately so we can explain the conditions of the order and any appeal rights you may have if you do not agree with the PPD. 

📞 1800 957 936
🌐 rmolaw.com.au
📧 mail@rmolaw.com.au

This article is for your information and interest only. It is not intended to be comprehensive, and it does not constitute and must not be relied on as legal advice. You must seek specific advice tailored to your circumstances.

Article Authorised by Roly O’Regan