Family Violence Intervention Orders for Children and Young Adults: Stage 2 – Participation in Court Proceedings: Issues Paper

Published on July 30, 2026

This issues paper examines how children and young people are heard and participate in Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO) proceedings.

It considers whether reforms are needed to the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (Vic) to ensure children and young people have the opportunity to be heard in family violence intervention order (FVIO) proceedings which affect them. The inquiry focuses on children and young people who are listed on a FVIO as an applicant, protected person or affected family member.

The paper is part of Stage 2 of our two-part community law reform project examining aspects of FVIOs for children and young people.

It outlines how children and young people currently participate in FVIO proceedings in Victoria, in other legal settings and in other places. It calls for community input about this issue and includes questions to guide submissions.

We have also published plain-language information sheets about the project and about talking to us: Information Sheets – Family Violence Intervention Orders for Children and Young Adults

Submissions can be made until 16 October 2026.

Content Warning

This project relates to family violence, which is a difficult and distressing issue.

If you need support, a list of people who can help is available here: People you can talk to

Other options for advice and assistance are available here.