Coercive control is a form of domestic and family violence that involves a person using patterns of behaviour such as manipulation, isolation, and domination of another to severely restrict their freedom. In Queensland, coercive control is increasingly recognised as a serious form of domestic and family violence that can lead to mental and physical harm and requires urgent community attention.
The Legal Definition in Queensland
Recognising Coercive Control as Domestic and Family Violence
Coercive control includes a range of behaviours designed to make a person dependent by isolating them from support, exploiting them, depriving them of independence, and regulating their everyday behaviour. These behaviours may include controlling access to finances, monitoring communication, dictating what one can wear or eat, and restricting access to friends and family.
Queensland law is evolving to address this complex form of abuse more effectively, becoming the second jurisdiction in Australia to pass laws to criminalise coercive control.
Legal Protections and Reporting
How People Experiencing Coercive Control Can Seek Help
Queensland law provides processes for people experiencing coercive control to seek help. A person can apply for a Domestic Violence Order (‘DVO’), which will include conditions that prevent the abuser from continuing their controlling and coercive behaviours. Reporting coercive control to the police is also a crucial step as law enforcement is trained to handle these complexities and can provide immediate protection and referrals to a range of specialised support services.
Support and Resources
Assistance Beyond the Legal System
Beyond legal remedies, Queensland offers various resources to support victims of coercive control. This includes counselling services, support groups, and emergency accommodation. Organisations such as DVConnect and White Ribbon Australia provide confidential assistance, while the Queensland Government’s Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women offers programs specifically aimed at addressing and mitigating the impact of coercive control. The Queensland Police Service and the Courts have specialised units in place that can refer people to a range of community services.