Police Protection Directions vs Police Protection Notices in Queensland

Police Protection Directions vs Police Protection Notices in Queensland – What Is the Difference?

If Queensland Police attend a domestic violence incident, they have a number of powers available to protect the alleged victim and respond to the circumstances. Two important mechanisms are a Police Protection Direction (PPD) and a Police Protection Notice (PPN).

While they may appear similar, there are important differences, and breaching either can have serious consequences.

What is a Police Protection Direction?

Since 1 January 2026, Queensland Police have had the power to issue a Police Protection Direction under the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012.

A Police Protection Direction is designed to provide immediate protection without necessarily requiring the matter to immediately proceed to court. Police may issue a direction where they reasonably believe domestic violence has occurred, the direction is necessary or desirable to protect the aggrieved person, and it is not more appropriate for a protection order application to be made.

A Police Protection Direction can include conditions such as no contact, cool-down, ouster and return conditions. It can remain in force for up to 12 months.

Importantly, a Police Protection Direction is not simply advice from police. It creates legally enforceable obligations.

Under s 177A, it is an offence to contravene a Police Protection Direction. The maximum penalty is 120 penalty units or 3 years imprisonment.

What is a Police Protection Notice?

A Police Protection Notice is another mechanism available to police. A PPN can impose conditions preventing domestic violence and can include conditions concerning contact, accommodation and other conduct.

A significant difference is that a PPN is treated as an application for a protection order. The matter will generally proceed to the Magistrates Court for consideration.

Contravening a PPN is also a criminal offence under the Act, with a maximum penalty of 120 penalty units or 3 years imprisonment.

Be very careful about alleged breaches

One of the most common mistakes people make is believing that because the other person agrees to contact or invites them to the property, the conditions no longer apply.

That is not necessarily the case.

The person subject to the direction or notice remains responsible for complying with its conditions.

If you have been issued with a Police Protection Direction or Police Protection Notice, or you have been charged with an alleged breach, it is important to obtain legal advice before speaking with police or entering a plea.

East Coast Criminal Lawyers regularly appears in domestic violence and criminal matters in Brisbane, Beaudesert, Beenleigh, Southport and Coolangatta Magistrates Courts.

Contact East Coast Criminal Lawyers on 0420 202 060 for a free initial consultation and advice about your matter.