What is coercive control?

Family violence includes more than physical abuse

 
 

The safety of your family is our priority

Coercive control is defined as being a pattern of behaviours which is cumulative and designed to create an uneven power dynamic in a domestic relationship for the purpose of controlling another person.

 This behaviour generally involved manipulation and intimidation, and creates an environment of fear, isolation, and dependence by the victim on the person controlling them.  Essentially, coercive control is designed to disempower the victim.

 Such behaviours are captured within the definition of domestic violence under the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012, and therefore can form the basis of applications for domestic and family violence protection Orders.  However, coercive control is not currently a stand alone criminal offence.  In May 2022, the Queensland Government announced plans to introduce legislation to make coercive control a criminal offence by the end of 2023.

 If you have been a victim to coercive control or have been accused of coercive control, please contact our office to seek advice from one of our experienced Solicitors.

 If you would like further information about domestic violence or would like to seek support, please contact:

  • 1800RESPECT

    • 24/7 National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line

      • 1800 737 732

      • 1800respect.org.au

  • LIFELINE

    • A national number which can help put you in contact with a crisis service

      • 13 11 14

  • DVCONNECT WOMENSLINE (Queensland Service)

    • A 24/7 free state wide telephone service that provides confidential counselling and referral to crisis accommodation for women and children affected by domestic or family violence and those who are concerned about a friend or family member.

      • 1800 811 811

  • DVCONNECT MENSLINE (Queensland Service)

    • A free state wide telephone service that provides counselling and referral for men for a range of issues especially those who have experienced or use domestic and family violence and those who are concerned about a friend or family member.

      • 1800 600 636

Our expert family lawyers are local to Ipswich Court and are experienced Court lawyers. We offer an initial free consultation to give you legal advice and discuss your options. For a free initial consultation on Protection Order or Family Law matters please contact our office or click the button below.