In most cases, a DVO on its own won’t stop you from keeping your job.

However, there are some situations where it could matter:

• Working with children: If your job requires a Blue Card (or other working with children check), a DVO may trigger a review. Authorities look at the circumstances to decide if you’re still eligible.

• Professional licences: Certain professions (such as security, law enforcement, or roles that require a firearms licence) may be affected by the conditions of a DVO. For example, if the order prevents you from owning or using a firearm, you may not be able to continue in a role that requires one.

• Employer awareness: Generally, employers don’t need to be notified unless the order directly affects your ability to do your job. But if the DVO places restrictions on your movements, communication, or contact with certain people, it may have flow-on effects at work.

For anyone who works with children, the Blue Card Services in Queensland will take a DVO into account when assessing or reassessing eligibility. This doesn’t automatically mean a card will be refused or cancelled, but the circumstances are carefully considered. The main question is whether the person poses a potential risk to children.

A Queensland DVO applies Australia-wide, but it does not automatically prevent you from travelling overseas.

However, there are some things to keep in mind:

• Passports: A DVO itself doesn’t usually restrict you from holding a passport. However, if there are court restrictions on travel, outstanding charges, or a criminal conviction for breaching the order, your eligibility for a new passport can be affected.

• Criminal charges: If the DVO is linked to breaches or related criminal matters, that record may cause difficulties when applying for visas in certain countries.

• Travel conditions: If a DVO includes restrictions that might conflict with your travel plans (for example, being required to stay in a certain area for court), this could indirectly affect your ability to leave Australia.

Having a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) in place doesn’t automatically mean you’ll lose your job, your Blue Card, or your ability to travel. But depending on your profession and personal situation, there can be flow-on effects. If you’re worried about how a DVO might impact your work or your travel plans, it’s important to get legal advice tailored to your circumstances. A family lawyer will be able to help you understand how a DVO can affect you.