What it means for offenders, victims and those needing legal advice.
Recently South Australia Police (SAPOL) announced that its latest statewide crackdown on domestic violence, Operation Storm, resulted in 50 more arrests in just two weeks.
The operation targeted 339 alleged offenders, visiting 433 addresses to check bail compliance and issue intervention orders. Since the beginning of Operation Storm, SAPOL has targeted 1,759 domestic-violence offenders, made 361 arrests and issued 105 intervention orders.
These developments are particularly significant for anyone involved in domestic violence matters, as they highlight a stricter enforcement environment and the increased likelihood of arrests, charges, court appearances and serious legal consequences.
What is an Intervention Order and How Do They Work?
Under the Intervention Orders (Prevention of Abuse) Act 2009 (SA), an intervention order, previously called a restraining order, is a civil order intended to protect a person, the protected person, from abuse or harassment by another person, the respondent.
An intervention order can include conditions such as not assaulting, threatening, harassing or intimidating the protected person, no contact or communication, staying away from certain locations including home, work, or schools, and surrendering firearms while the order is in force.
Although the order itself is civil, breaching it is a criminal offence.
In South Australia:
- Police can issue an interim intervention order immediately in urgent situations.
- The interim order is referred to the Magistrates Court, which can confirm, vary or revoke it.
- Once confirmed, the order continues until varied or revoked by the court.
What SAPOL’s crackdown means in practical terms
With operations like Operation Storm and increased police focus, several realities emerge:
- More offenders, including those with previous intervention orders or bail conditions, are being actively targeted for compliance checks, new orders or arrests.
- Alleged breaches or new criminal conduct such as assault, harassment or intimidation are more likely to lead to charges, court appearances and serious penalties.
- For individuals named in intervention orders or facing charges, being designated a prescribed applicant under bail law means a presumption against bail in many violence-related cases.
Why legal representation matters
At Caldicott + Isaacs Lawyers, we are experts in all domestic violence and intervention order matters and can assist in any of the following areas in relation to these charges:
- Understanding your rights and obligations. Many people do not realise that breaching an intervention order is a criminal offence.
- Navigating the court process. Responding to interim orders, applying for variation or revocation, and defending against allegations can be complex.
- Bail issues. Being charged with a breach or aggravated domestic violence offence often means bail is not automatic. Legal advice is crucial in demonstrating special circumstances.
- Defence and mitigation strategy. The facts of the case, including timing, context, prior history, and whether orders were properly served, can affect outcomes.
If you, a friend or family member are involved in a domestic-violence matter as a respondent or protected person, it is important to get advice as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
The recent arrests under Operation Storm demonstrate that SAPOL is taking domestic-violence enforcement seriously and committing more resources to this area. For anyone facing charges or named in intervention orders, the risks of criminal penalties, bail restrictions, and long-term consequences are significant.
At Caldicott + Isaacs Lawyers, we provide expert legal advice and representation for clients involved in domestic-violence matters. Whether you need guidance on responding to an intervention order, defending against criminal charges, or navigating court processes, our team can help protect your legal rights and work towards the best possible outcome.
