Domestic violence occurs in all sections of our community and across all cultures. Domestic violence is an abuse of power between people in intimate relationships, or after separation, through a wide range of abusive behaviours. This may include physical and sexual violence, verbal abuse, threats and intimidation, emotional and social abuse, stalking and economic deprivation, All of these behaviours are unacceptable in our community, and some of them are clearly against the law.

A restraining order is a court order which forbids a person (the defendant) from behaving towards you (the complainant) in ways which may harass, threaten or abuse you or which may be violent. The other person may be ordered not to do various things, such as not to come to your home, not to go to your children's' school, not to follow or watch you, or not to send messages to you. An order is made specifically for you and your situation.

A restraining order may help protect you and your family. This booklet tells you what will happen if you contact the police about getting a restraining order. It will answer your questions, and help you decide what to do.

• To download the booklet as a PDF (in English), please click here.

• To download the booklet in other languages, please click here.

• To download the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader, please click here.

Last Modified: 11 May, 2007
URL: http://www.voc.sa.gov.au