Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS)

Women experiencing domestic and family violence are entitled to protection under the law. However, it can be a daunting process to appear in court in the presence of the person who has caused you to be fearful.

WDVCAS provides support, advocacy, referrals and information for women experiencing domestic violence. We help women and their children with information about domestic and family violence, and how to get protection from the court. We see clients before, during, and after court. This service covers the upper and lower North Shore and the Northern Beaches. If women have a domestic violence case going to court, we can assist them at Hornsby or Manly Courts. We also refer women and their families to other services, as required.

For more information contact:
Northern Sydney Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service
P: (02) 8425 8707
E: nswdvcas@catholiccaredbb.org.au

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Police took an AVO out on my partner? Does that mean he will go to jail?

No. An AVO is an order to protect you. Unless the other party breaches that order, nothing will happen. If he does anything he should not do, you should call 000 immediately. Police will then send us your contact details and we will call you within 24 hours.

Are you the Police?

We are not the Police but we do work closely with them. We do not tell them information you share with us unless you give us consent to do so. If you talk about your children and we have concerns for their welfare or safety, we are mandatory reporters to the Department of Communities & Justice (DCJ).

Can we live together with an AVO?

Sometimes yes, unless the order specifies that the other party cannot live there or cannot approach you.

Can you provide legal advice?

We have lawyers who work with us every Tuesday and Thursday across the three courts we attend. They can give you advice on any legal matter.

Do I have to come to court?

No, but we recommend you do on the first return date at court. We have a safe room where you can sit with us, see our lawyers and chat to the Police. Men are not allowed in the safe room. It is only for female victims.

Will the magistrate talk to me? Will I have to talk?

Not normally. It is the Police prosecutor who will represent you on the day and talk on your behalf. We know it can seem overwhelming. We are here to talk you through every step of the process.