New Updates on Coercive Control Queensland Legislation

In a significant move to combat domestic and family violence, coercive control Queensland legislation has been passed to criminalise this abusive behaviour, with the new laws set to take effect from May 26, 2025. This initiative positions Queensland as the second Australian jurisdiction, following New South Wales, to establish coercive control as a standalone criminal offence.

To fully understand what coercive control entails, how it impacts victims, and the broader implications of this legislation, explore the key features of the new laws and their role in preventing domestic violence. Learn more about the warning signs, the legal framework, and the support available to those in need.

Understanding Coercive Control

Coercive control refers to a pattern of abusive behaviours employed to dominate and intimidate a partner or family member, effectively stripping away their autonomy and sense of self. These behaviours can encompass isolation from support networks, manipulation, surveillance, and threats, creating an environment of fear and dependency. Identifying these patterns is essential, as they frequently lead to more obvious acts of physical violence.

Warning Signs of Coercive Control

Coercive control is often subtle but deeply damaging. Recognising the signs can be critical in protecting potential victims. Common warning signs include:

• Isolation: Restricting access to friends, family, or support networks.
• Financial Abuse: Controlling access to money, limiting employment opportunities, or taking over financial decisions.
• Monitoring and Surveillance: Tracking movements, phone usage, or online activity.
• Manipulation: Emotional blackmail, guilt-tripping, or gaslighting to erode confidence and independence.
• Threats and Intimidation: Using fear, including threats of harm to the victim or their loved ones, to maintain control.
• Control Over Daily Life: Dictating what the victim wears, eats, or how they spend their time.

These behaviours collectively create an environment of fear and dependence, making it difficult for victims to seek help.

Legislative Milestones for Coercive Control in Queensland

The legislative journey started with the introduction of the Criminal Law (Coercive Control and Affirmative Consent) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 which was passed by the Queensland Parliament on March 6, 2024. It lays the groundwork for prosecuting coercive control as a criminal offense. Key points include:

• Definition: Coercive control is identified as a pattern of abusive behavior aimed at dominating another person within a domestic relationship.
• Scope: It applies to intimate partners, family members, and informal carers, ensuring a wide range of relationships are covered.
• Penalties: The offense carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.
• Third-Party Accountability: The law also criminalises individuals who engage in abuse on behalf of someone else, addressing tactics such as involving friends or family in coercive behaviors.

The legislation defines coercive control as a course of conduct involving repeated abusive behaviours intended to control or coerce another person in a domestic relationship. This includes current or former intimate partners, family members, or informal carers. The law also criminalises third parties who engage in domestic violence on behalf of a respondent, addressing situations where individuals use others to perpetuate abuse. These provisions aim to prevent non-physical abuse from escalating into physical violence and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

Implementation Timeline

While the coercive control queensland legislation was enacted in March 2024, it will come into force on May 26, 2025. This interim period allows for comprehensive training and education of law enforcement agencies, legal professionals, and support services to effectively identify and respond to instances of coercive control. It also provides time for public awareness campaigns to inform the community about the new laws and the support available to victim-survivors.

National Context

The criminalisation of coercive control Queensland aligns with a broader national movement to address domestic and family violence. The recognition of coercive control as a precursor to severe physical violence and domestic homicides underscores the importance of these legislative reforms. By enacting these laws, Queensland aims to provide greater protection for victim-survivors and hold perpetrators accountable for non-physical forms of abuse.

As the implementation date approaches, continued collaboration between government agencies, support services, and the community will be essential to ensure the effectiveness of the new laws in safeguarding individuals from coercive and controlling behaviours.

Support Mechanisms

In anticipation of the law’s commencement, the Queensland Government is strengthening support services for those affected by coercive control. Victim-survivors currently have access to civil protection orders under domestic violence legislation, with breaches carrying significant penalties. Additionally, financial assistance is available through Victim Assist Queensland to cover expenses such as counseling, medical costs, and safety needs.

To assist individuals affected by coercive control, Queensland offers a range of resources:

• Protection Orders: Victims can apply for civil protection orders under existing domestic violence legislation. These orders impose legal restrictions on perpetrators and carry severe penalties if breached.
• Victim Assist Queensland: This service provides financial support to cover costs such as counseling, medical expenses, and safety measures.
• Domestic Violence Helplines:
  • DVConnect: A 24/7 crisis line offering support, safety planning, and emergency accommodation (1800 811 811).
  • 1800 RESPECT: A national service providing confidential advice and referrals (1800 737 732).
• Training and Awareness Campaigns: The government is investing in education for law enforcement, legal professionals, and community services to improve responses to coercive control cases.
• Community Outreach Programs: Local organizations work to provide safe spaces, counseling, and advocacy for those experiencing domestic abuse.

By understanding the warning signs, the legal measures in place, and the support available, individuals and communities can work together to address coercive control and protect those at risk. If you or someone you know needs legal guidance or support navigating these new laws, consulting an experienced lawyer can provide clarity and help secure the protection and justice needed.