Coercive control will become a criminal offence in Queensland – what you need to know
From 26 May 2025, coercive control will be officially recognised as a criminal offence in Queensland. This significant legal shift aims to address patterns of abusive behaviour used to dominate or manipulate others, protecting victim-survivors from both physical and psychological harm.
Under the new law, it will be illegal for an adult to engage in coercive or controlling behaviours towards their current or former intimate partner, family member, or informal (unpaid) carer with the intent to exert power over them. Such behaviour includes a range of actions designed to hurt, humiliate, isolate, frighten, or threaten the victim.
Given the severe impact coercive control can have on victim-survivors, this new offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.
What is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is a pattern of manipulative behaviours used to gain control over someone. These behaviours may initially seem caring or protective but escalate into abusive conduct that undermines the victim’s autonomy, self-esteem, and confidence.
Examples of coercive control include:
- Monitoring or tracking someone’s whereabouts, often without their knowledge.
- Controlling or restricting access to finances.
- Continually insulting or belittling someone to lower their self-esteem.
- Isolating someone from their friends or family.
- Controlling what someone wears, says, or does.
- Monitoring communication with others.
While this behaviour has not been previously recognised as a standalone criminal offence, the new legislation reflects its seriousness and the devastating effects it can have.
A Sobering Reality
On average, one woman is killed each week in Australia by her current or former partner, with coercive control often underpinning these tragedies. Victims may initially interpret controlling behaviours as signs of care or love, only to later find themselves trapped, doubting their self-worth and autonomy.
How to Seek Help
Until the new laws take effect, there are steps victims of coercive control or domestic violence can take:
- Apply for a protection order: Victims can file for a protection order themselves, engage a solicitor to assist, or rely on police intervention in urgent cases.
- Enforce the protection order: If a perpetrator breaches the conditions of the order, police can take action and lay charges.
Looking Ahead
The Queensland Government has taken a critical step toward addressing the harm caused by coercive control with the introduction of this legislation. By criminalising this behaviour, it aims to hold perpetrators accountable and provide greater protection for victim-survivors.
If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control or domestic violence, support is available. Reach out to a trusted legal professional or a local support service for assistance.
Who can I call?
If you are in immediate danger, call the police on: 000
Women needing support or help with finding safe accommodation, call DV Connect Womensline on: 1800 811 811
For men looking for counselling, call DV Connect Mensline on: 1800 600 636
Anyone needing advice, counselling and support can call 1800 RESPECT on: 1800 737 732
If you need legal advice on separation, divorce, court orders or any issues related to domestic and family violence, please call Michael Lynch Family Laywers on: (07) 3221 4300 or email our office: law@mlynch.com.au
Our experienced team of family law experts are here to help you through this time.
