In this important episode of You Do Not Have to Put Up With It, Ms Carmella from DFV Lawyers examines a difficult and often uncomfortable issue within the family violence system: the weaponisation of intervention orders.

Intervention orders exist to protect adults and children from family violence, reduce further harm, and promote accountability for those who use violence. But in some cases, these orders are misused deliberately, strategically and harmfully for reasons unrelated to safety.

Carmella discusses how intervention order applications can be weaponised in family law disputes, property disputes, immigration matters, parenting conflicts and attempts to remove a partner from the home. Drawing on de-identified case examples, this episode explores how misuse can unfold, how it can backfire, and how courts, Victoria Police and the broader system may respond when the truth becomes clear.

The episode also considers the wider impact of false, exaggerated or strategically motivated applications. When intervention orders are misused, the harm extends beyond the person targeted. It drains police and court resources, delays urgent matters, increases pressure on an already stretched system, and can place genuine victims at greater risk.

This episode is essential listening for legal professionals, advocates, community members and anyone seeking a more balanced understanding of family violence, intervention orders and systems abuse in Victoria.

For more information, visit https://domesticfamilyviolencelawyers.au/carmella-acciarito/