AVOW app to hold domestic violence perpetrators to account

The AVOW app was launched as part of a package of products to help people understand their legal obligations under an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO).

An ADVO is a court order that imposes multiple conditions on a perpetrator, including limiting their contact with the victim to ensure they do not stalk or intimidate them.

Breaking these conditions is a criminal offence, which can lead to a jail sentence.

Emma Bromham, manager of the Riverina Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service, welcomed the introduction of the app.

She said while there is always a need for funding and support for victims but it was essential to tackle family and domestic violence on both sides of the coin.

"If we don't change behaviour and attitudes, then it won't matter what else we put in place," she said.

"Nothing will change."

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Ms Bromham said that AVO breaches form a huge part of their workload. But, in many cases, the perpetrators knows what they are doing.

"They know they are breaching the orders," Ms Bromham said.

"That's why I am glad to see part of this is referring them to men's support services."

The app has features that allow users to add their ADVO conditions into the app and plan for how they will comply with them and a directory and links to support services.

Mark Speakman, Attorney General and Minister for Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence, said the scourge of domestic violence needs to be tackled both by protecting victims and by helping perpetrators to stop their abusive behaviour.

"The Avow app puts information perpetrators need to comply with their ADVO at their fingertips," he said.

"It's available anytime, anywhere, for free, meaning perpetrators can more easily address their behaviour."

Legal Aid NSW is also launching a new YouTube animation How to Stick to Your Order, with an accompanying publication.

Shorter animations will form part of a social media campaign along with a podcast for community workers who support victims and alleged perpetrators.

Legal Aid NSW CEO Brendan Thomas said these resources are innovative ways to promote access to justice.

"While nothing beats in-person legal advice, the app will serve as an invaluable reference tool that will help to keep victims safe and perpetrators out of jail," he said.

Avow can be downloaded onto mobiles from Google Play or the App Store.

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