Understanding Police Protection Directions

Join us for our next Ask Nola webinar on Friday, 27th March, presented by Ashleigh Lawrence, Community Engagement Lawyer at North Queensland Women’s Legal Service (NQWLS).

This session provides a deep dive into Police Protection Directions (PPDs), a new tool in the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (Qld) designed to provide immediate protection to victim-survivors. Unlike other orders, a PPD is a 12-month direction issued directly by police on-the-spot, requiring no initial court hearing to take effect.

What we will cover:

·     The Essentials of PPDs: What they are, how they differ from Police Protection Notices (PPNs) and Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs), and why they were introduced.

·     Eligibility & issuing criteria: When police can issue a PPD and the specific "relevant relationships" (intimate partners, family members, or informal carers) that qualify.

·     Conditions of protection: A breakdown of standard conditions, as well as no-contact, ouster, and cool-down conditions that can be included to ensure safety.

·     When PPDs cannot be used: Understanding the limitations, such as when a respondent is a child or when there are existing court orders in place.

·     Enforcement & Breaches: What happens if a PPD is not followed and the criminal penalties involved.

·     The Review Process: The options for a Police Review or a Court Review if a party disagrees with the direction.

 Who should attend?

·     Community Workers & DFV Sector Professionals: Gain technical knowledge to better support clients navigating the new PPD landscape.

·     Support Services: Anyone working in housing, financial counselling, or mental health who assists women dealing with legal issues.