Full non-contact domestic violence order sought by Paul Arnold’s former partner

The ex-partner of prominent Territory gallery owner and former councillor Paul Arnold has applied to strengthen the domestic violence order made against him.

Prominent gallery-owner and former councillor Paul Arnold is facing a string of domestic violence charges. Picture: Che Chorley

An application has been made to strengthen the domestic violence order issued against Paul Arnold, who stands charged with a months-long campaign of abuse, assaults and stalking.

The prominent Territory business owner and photographer was not present at the Darwin Local Court when his matter was heard briefly on Monday afternoon.

Arnold, 51, was served with a 12 month DVO on April 28 that prevented him from causing, threatening or attempting to cause harm to his former partner or her property.

She has since applied to vary that to a full non-contact order, it has been revealed.

Chief Judge Elizabeth Morris questioned delays in dealing with the variation request.

“There’s no interim order in place … this is not the kind of thing that can just bump along,” she said.

Paul Arnold was arrested in his Smith St Mall gallery last month. Picture: Keri Megelus

It comes after Arnold was sensationally arrested from his Smith St Mall gallery on June 13 for three alleged breaches of a DVO and unlawful stalking.

He was also charged with depriving a person of personal liberty, seven counts of aggravated assault and four counts of damage to property.

The allegations span a nine-month period with the first property damage and assault charge dating back to August 2022.

A statement from Arnold’s lawyer said the artist sought to adjourn his court proceedings on Monday “due to a number of significant health challenges”.

“He is currently under the care of specialist trauma and suicidality mental health professionals and hopes to be in a position to fully return to work and community life in the near future,” the statement said.

“Paul is preparing his defence and will seek to restore the esteem in which he has always been held in the Darwin community.

“Paul is grateful for the huge outpouring of support that he has received and continues to receive, and he looks forward to reconnecting with his broad professional network throughout the Northern Territory and beyond.”

Arnold suddenly resigned from his position as Lyons Ward councillor with the Darwin council in May, citing mental health struggles.

Arnold remains on bail with an ankle monitor and is due to return to court on September 11.

The DVO variation was scheduled to be heard on August 15.