For a long time, Australian law focused mainly on physical violence, leaving a pattern of controlling behaviour - monitoring, isolating, financially restricting or intimidating a partner - largely outside the criminal justice system. That is changing. Several states have now made coercive control a standalone criminal offence, and others are moving in that direction.
What coercive control actually means
Coercive control describes an ongoing pattern of behaviour, not a single incident. It can include controlling someone's money, monitoring their phone or movements, isolating them from family and friends, making threats, or using children to manipulate a partner. On its own, any one behaviour might seem minor. Together, over time, it can be as harmful as physical violence, and is often a warning sign that physical violence may follow.
Where the law stands
New South Wales has criminalised coercive control in current relationships. Queensland has passed similar legislation. Other states are at various stages of reform, and the detail of what is covered, and the penalties involved, differs between jurisdictions. This is general information, not legal advice - if you need to understand how the law applies to a specific situation, a family violence lawyer or community legal centre can help.
Why this shift matters
Recognising coercive control as a crime validates something many victim-survivors have described for years: that the fear and harm caused by control does not require a bruise to be real. It also gives police and courts an additional tool to intervene earlier, before a pattern escalates into physical harm.
What to do if this sounds familiar
- You do not need to wait for a physical incident to seek help or advice.
- Keep a private, safe record of what is happening if it is safe to do so.
- Contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) for confidential counselling and advice, available 24 hours a day.
- If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
How Nhanya Foundation can help
Nhanya Foundation supports women, children and families affected by family violence with practical, everyday support and advocacy. We are not a crisis service, and we do not replace specialist family violence services like Safe Steps or The Orange Door, but we can help connect you with the right support and work alongside you as you take next steps. If you would like to talk something through, contact us.
