Criminalisation of Coercive Control
(Effective May 2025)
Criminalisation of Coercive Control
(Effective May 2025)
Queensland is taking a significant step forward in addressing domestic violence by criminalising coercive control. This landmark legal change, coming into effect on the 26th of May 2025, recognises the devastating impact of patterns of controlling behaviour, not just physical violence.
Understanding coercive control is crucial for everyone: victims, support networks, and the wider community, to create a safer environment. As a family lawyer and former police officer with extensive experience in domestic violence matters, Nick Harrison understands the complexities of these situations and the importance of this legal change.
This blog post aims to provide clear information about this complex issue and the upcoming legal changes.
What is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is a pattern of ongoing and calculated behaviours used by an abuser to dominate, isolate, and control their victim. It's not about isolated incidents; it's a systematic effort to strip away a person's autonomy and freedom. Unlike physical violence, which is often visible, coercive control is subtle and insidious, making it difficult for victims to recognise and escape. It's the persistent erosion of a person's sense of self and control over their own life.
Examples of Coercive Control Behaviours:
- Emotional Abuse: This involves constant criticism, insults, belittling, and gaslighting. For instance, an abuser might constantly undermine their partner's decisions, making them doubt their own judgment.
- Isolation: Abusers often cut off their victims from support networks, such as friends and family. They might restrict access to phones or social media, or create conflict with loved ones.
- Financial Control: This involves restricting access to money, controlling spending, or preventing the victim from working. An abuser might demand receipts for every purchase or refuse to allow their partner to have their own bank account.
- Monitoring and Surveillance: Abusers may track their victim's movements, phone calls, and social media activity. They might install tracking apps or demand constant updates on their whereabouts.
- Threats and Intimidation: Abusers use fear to control behaviour, threatening to harm the victim, their loved ones, or pets. They may also use intimidation tactics, such as destroying property or displaying weapons.
- Gaslighting: This form of manipulation involves making the victim question their own sanity. An abuser might deny events that occurred or claim the victim is "crazy."
The New Coercive Control Law in Queensland:
From 26th May 2025, coercive control will be a criminal offence in Queensland. This means that abusers who engage in a pattern of controlling behaviours can be held accountable under the law. People found guilty can face significant penalties, reflecting the seriousness of this crime. This law is not retroactive; it applies to behaviours that occur after the law comes into effect. This change is a significant step in validating the experiences of victims and providing them with legal protection. Nick Harrison's experience in domestic violence cases highlights the necessity of these kinds of legal changes. (source)
Why This Law Matters:
Coercive control has a devastating impact on victims, leading to psychological trauma, isolation, and loss of independence. By criminalising this behaviour, Queensland acknowledges the severity of this form of abuse and aims to change societal attitudes. This law helps to empower victims to seek help and hold perpetrators accountable.
Legal Consequences:
Under the new legislation, individuals found guilty of coercive control can face up to 14 years imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence (source). The law is designed to prevent escalating violence and provide law enforcement with stronger powers to act before physical harm occurs. This highlights the seriousness with which the Queensland legal system is now treating coercive control.
Signs of a Perpetrator:
- Consistent need for control.
- Jealousy and possessiveness.
- Minimising or denying abusive behaviour.
- Blaming others for their problems.
- Isolating their partner from support systems.
How to Help:
- Believe the victim.
- Listen without judgment.
- Offer support and resources.
- Encourage them to seek professional help.
- Do not confront the abuser.
Resources and Support Available in Queensland:
- Queensland Government: For comprehensive information and resources on domestic and family violence, visit www.qld.gov.au/ and search “domestic violence”.
- Queensland Courts: For information on Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) and legal processes, visit www.courts.qld.gov.au/ and search “domestic violence order”.
- Queensland Government Department of Justice and Attorney-General: For information on the laws, visit www.justice.qld.gov.au/ and search “domestic violence”.
Nick Harrison and Domestic Violence Matters
Nick Harrison, a seasoned family lawyer on the Gold Coast, and as a former police officer has extensive experience in handling domestic violence cases. He understands the sensitive nature of these situations and is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. His experience in domestic violence law ensures that clients receive the support and protection they need. As these important laws change, Nick is well equipped to help clients navigate these changes.
If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control or domestic violence, it's crucial to seek legal advice. Nick Harrison can provide you with the support and guidance you need.
Contact The Legal House today for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
