A Police Protection Notice (PPN) is a short-term protective order issued directly by police officers when they attend a domestic violence incident. Its purpose is to provide immediate safety for the person at risk until the court can consider a longer-term Domestic Violence Order (DVO).

A PPN:

• Can be issued on the spot by attending police.
• Places immediate conditions on the alleged perpetrator (the respondent).
• Lasts until the matter is heard in court, usually within days.

Police may issue a PPN if they reasonably believe:

• Domestic or family violence has occurred.
• The victim requires immediate protection.
• Waiting for a formal court application could leave the victim unsafe.

For example, if police are called to a home after a violent incident, they may serve a PPN that requires the respondent to leave the premises immediately.

The conditions of a PPN are similar to those found in Domestic Violence Orders. They may include:

• A standard condition that the respondent must not commit domestic violence against the aggrieved (the protected person).

• Additional conditions, such as:

No contact (direct or indirect) with the aggrieved.
Staying away from the aggrieved’s home, workplace, or other specified locations.
Returning property only under police supervision.

A PPN acts as a bridge until a court decides whether a longer-term protection order (DVO) should be made.

• Once a PPN is issued, police are required to file an application for a DVO in the Magistrates Court.
• The PPN remains in effect until the first court date.
• At court, a magistrate may confirm, vary, or dismiss the application and decide whether to make a temporary or final DVO.

Breaching a PPN is a serious offence. The police can arrest and charge the respondent for failing to comply, with penalties including fines or imprisonment.

Police Protection Notices play a crucial role in keeping victims safe in the immediate aftermath of domestic violence incidents. While temporary, they ensure protection is in place until the court can properly consider whether a Domestic Violence Order is necessary. If you have been served with or protected by a PPN, it’s important to seek legal advice about your rights, obligations, and the next steps in the process.