New Victorian Laws to Protect Women and Children: What You Need to Know

The Victorian Government has introduced new laws to protect women and children from family violence, bringing significant changes to how Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs) and related protections operate. These reforms are currently at the Council – second reading stage (passed Assembly), meaning the bill has cleared the lower house and is progressing through Parliament. At Kennon Family Law, we understand that navigating these legal changes can be overwhelming, which is why we’ve summarised what these reforms mean for you and your family.

One of the most important reforms is that all FVIOs now have a minimum term of two years. This ensures victim-survivors are protected for longer without repeatedly returning to court.

If a perpetrator is imprisoned, the FVIO will automatically extend to cover the length of the prison sentence plus an additional 12 months after release. This extension helps ensure ongoing safety for women and children affected by family violence.

Previously, it could be difficult to serve FVIOs while an offender was incarcerated. The new laws make it easier to serve orders in prison, closing gaps in protection and keeping victims safe even when the perpetrator is behind bars.

Children included in an FVIO will continue to be protected even after turning 18, addressing a critical gap in the law. This reform ensures ongoing safety for young adults who may still be vulnerable to abuse from a parent or family member.

Courts and police must now consider factors such as age, race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability when assessing risk. This ensures more accurate identification of victims and perpetrators and helps reduce the risk of misidentifying victim-survivors as offenders.

The law now recognises non-physical forms of abuse, including:

• Stalking and harassment

• Coercion through systems abuse (e.g., manipulating bureaucratic processes)

• Mistreatment of pets or animals

This broader definition acknowledges the diverse ways family violence can occur and ensures that all forms of abuse are taken seriously. Provisions to prevent harm or threats to animals as a form of coercion or control.

Victims who relocate to Victoria from other states can now receive cross-jurisdictional protection.

At Kennon Family Law, we specialise in family law and family violence matters, providing compassionate guidance through complex legal processes. Our experienced team can help you:

• Apply for or extend a Family Violence Intervention Order

• Understand your rights and protections under the new laws

• Navigate risk assessments and court proceedings

• Protect your children and ensure their ongoing safety

As the bill progresses through Parliament (currently at Council – second reading stage), it’s important for anyone affected by family violence to stay informed and seek legal advice early.