How to apply for a protection order in SA
In South Australia, protection orders are called intervention orders and are governed by the Intervention Orders (Prevention of Abuse) Act 2009 (SA). Applications can be made by individuals, police, or other agencies through the Magistrates Court. Interim orders can be granted urgently.
The framework
Intervention orders in SA are governed by the Intervention Orders (Prevention of Abuse) Act 2009 (SA).
The process
Assess your immediate safety
If you are in immediate danger, call 000. Contact SA Police or the Domestic Violence Crisis Line (1800 800 098) for help.
Report to SA Police (if applicable)
SA Police can apply for an intervention order on your behalf. Report the abuse and ask police to issue an interim intervention order.
Complete the application form
If applying privately, complete the Application for an Intervention Order form available from the Magistrates Court.
Prepare a supporting statement
Write a detailed statement of the abuse or threats, including dates, descriptions of incidents, and any evidence such as messages or photos.
File the application at the Magistrates Court
Lodge the application and supporting material at the nearest Magistrates Court registry. There is no filing fee.
Request an interim order if urgent
Ask the court to grant an interim intervention order if you need immediate protection. The court can grant this without the respondent being present.
Serve the respondent
The respondent must be served with the application and any interim order. SA Police usually handle service.
Attend the hearing
Both parties attend the Magistrates Court hearing. Present your evidence. The Magistrate will decide whether to confirm, vary, or revoke the order.
Receive the final order
If granted, the final intervention order will set out the conditions and duration. Orders can include no-contact, exclusion from premises, and other terms.
Report any breaches
If the respondent breaches the intervention order, report it to SA Police immediately. Breach of an intervention order is a criminal offence.
Forms and templates
- Application for Intervention Order (SA)
- Supporting Statement/Affidavit
Common mistakes
- Not involving SA Police early — they can apply on your behalf and issue interim orders
- Providing vague details in the supporting statement without specific dates and incidents
- Not attending the final hearing — the application may be dismissed
- Having contact with the respondent during the order period, which can complicate matters
- Not reporting breaches — enforcement depends on reporting to police
Get this process right with Quillio
Quillio helps draft intervention order applications, supporting statements, and hearing preparation documents for SA matters. See /practice-areas/family-lawyers or start a free trial.
This guide is general information about intervention orders in SA — not legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
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