Domestic & Family Violence Partner Visa

You need either judicial evidence (court orders, AVOs, convictions) or non-judicial evidence from competent persons such as doctors, psychologists, or social workers. Statutory declarations and supporting documents strengthen your claim and provide context.

Yes. If your family violence claim succeeds and you are granted a permanent partner visa, your dependent children included in the application are also granted permanent visas.

While not legally required, professional assistance significantly improves your chances of success. Migration lawyers understand evidentiary requirements and can present your case most effectively.

You can still succeed without police reports or AVOs. Non-judicial evidence from competent persons is accepted. Many successful claims rely entirely on professional assessments from doctors, psychologists, or social workers.

If you hold a bridging visa because your partner visa application is still being processed, you may be eligible to make a family violence claim. Your eligibility depends on the status of your underlying partner visa application.

If your family violence claim is refused, you may have the right to seek review at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. Time limits apply, so seek advice immediately if your claim is refused.

The Department may contact your former sponsor during the assessment process. However, they handle family violence claims with sensitivity and have procedures to protect applicants from further harm.

Yes. Psychological and emotional abuse is recognised under Australian migration law. A psychologist's assessment can provide evidence of the abuse and its impact on your mental health and well-being.

Non-judicial evidence is a category of evidence, while a competent person refers to who provides it. Competent persons are specific professionals authorised under migration law to give evidence of family violence, including doctors, psychologists, and social workers.

The family violence provisions apply when the relationship has ended. If you are still in the relationship, you would continue your standard partner visa application process. Safety should always be your priority.

Your work rights depend on your current visa conditions. Most bridging visas associated with partner visa applications include full work rights. We can advise on your specific situation during your consultation.

You may be able to appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for a merits review of the decision. Strict time limits apply. Contact us immediately if you receive a refusal decision so we can assess your appeal options and advise on next steps.