Domestic violence victims in NSW will be better protected by restraining orders now senior police can issue provisional ones on the spot.
Police can also "remove a defendant from the scene to secure the victim's safety" and can arrest anyone refusing to accompany officers to their station under changes to the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007, which come into effect on Tuesday.
Previously police had to apply to a court registrar or authorised justice for an apprehended domestic violence orders (ADVO).
"Most ADVOs are sought outside of business hours but victims can be assured that the process of obtaining emergency protection will be swift - regardless of what time the domestic incident occurs," NSW attorney-general Brad Hazzard said.
Sergeants and above can issue the provisional ADVOs, after which allegations must be taken to a local court within 28 days.
"Defendants can make an application to the court to challenge or vary a police-issued ADVO. Interim and final ADVOs will still only be issued by a court," Mr Hazzard said.
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