A New Civil Protection Scheme for Domestic Violence Victim Survivors

KEY TAKE-OUTS:

• High-risk domestic violence offenders will be targeted by a new civil protection scheme as of the 29 September 2025.

• The Serious Domestic Abuse Prevention Order (SDAPO) scheme allows courts to impose any conditions considered necessary to prevent domestic abuse perpetrators from using violence.

The NSW Government has taken a significant step toward preventing domestic violence and protecting vulnerable individuals with the introduction of the Serious Domestic Abuse Prevention Order (SDAPO) scheme. This new scheme enables courts to place strict, proactive conditions on individuals who pose a high risk of committing domestic abuse, before further harm can occur.

The NSW Government is backing the rollout of the SDAPO scheme with a $9.3 million investment, supporting its implementation through the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007.

This initiative is part of a broader legislative reform agenda aimed at reducing domestic violence and improving protections for victim-survivors across the state

A Targeted Approach to Prevention

Modelled on successful crime prevention strategies used to combat organised crime, SDAPOs are designed to protect those most at-risk, such as former or current intimate partners, children, relatives, and even potential future partners, by closely monitoring and managing high-risk offenders.

Courts can impose customised conditions under an SDAPO to reduce the likelihood of further violence. These orders can remain in place for up to five years, reflecting the serious and ongoing risks these individuals may pose.

What Conditions Can Be Imposed?

An SDAPO allows the court to enforce conditions considered necessary to prevent domestic abuse. These may include:

• Mandatory check-ins at a police station
• Requiring the offender to inform police when they begin a new intimate relationship
• Notification of any dating apps or online profiles they create or use

These requirements help law enforcement keep a closer watch on individuals with a proven risk of reoffending.

Who Can Be Subject to an SDAPO?

Courts can issue an SDAPO under the following circumstances:

• When a person has been convicted of two or more domestic violence offences with each carrying a maximum penalty of at least seven years’ imprisonment.

• When someone has been charged with a ‘serious domestic violence’ offence against a partner, relative or former partner.

This recognises that some individuals may continue to pose a serious risk, regardless of the outcome of individual court cases.

Serious Consequences for Breaching an SDAPO

Failure to comply with an SDAPO is a criminal offence. Breaching the terms can lead to:

• Up to five years’ imprisonment

• Fines of up to $33,000

• Or both

These penalties reflect the Government’s commitment to holding offenders accountable and prioritising community safety.

If you are facing a charge of domestic violence, contact 1300 COUTTS today.

Logan joined the Coutts team in July 2024, working with our Criminal and Family teams.

She has completed both a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Criminology.

Logan’s background in marketing and corporate events has honed her strong time management skills. She has organised and managed large-scale corporate events, such as awards nights, charity events, and corporate partnerships, handling multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines with ease.

Her future professional goals include furthering her learning and spending more time in front of the court.