This research examined the experiences of children and young people aged between 10 and 17 who are respondents to Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs) and Personal Safety Intervention Orders (PSIOs) in Victoria. Intervention orders are rising against children and young people, but they often don't change children's behaviour or leave families and the community feeling safer. 

This analysis and presentation of experiences from young clients and their families show that the intervention order system needs a rethink for children and young people. Children who are victim-survivors of family violence, with disability, neurodiverse, have poor mental health and First Nations children, are significantly more likely to be respondents to intervention orders.

Findings

1. Intervention orders are being used instead of supports for families in crisis.
2. Intervention orders are increasingly arising in schools and can lead to school disengagement.
3. The intervention order system is not helping children or their families.
4. Children are left out of court processes.

Key recommendations

• Raise the minimum age for respondents to intervention orders to at least 14 and ensure that intervention orders against children are used as a last resort.
• Make changes to Victoria Police policy and practice, including alternative first responders for children experiencing mental health crises.
• The Victorian Department of Education to provide greater support to schools to resolve disputes and to further invest in programs to support children to stay in school.
• The Victorian government to invest in more prevention and early intervention for families.