New coercive control laws are now in effect in Queensland
From today (26 May 2025), coercive control is a criminal offence in Queensland. This means it is now illegal for an adult to use these abusive behaviours towards intimate partners (either current or former), family members, or informal (unpaid) carers.
DVConnect welcomes this change as a step towards reducing domestic and family violence in our community. We also recognise the ongoing need for community education on the signs and impacts of coercive control, and the emotional outcomes these new laws may bring for victim-survivors.
If you need support, please contact our Womensline on 1800 811 811 or our Mensline on 1800 600 636.
What is coercive control?
Coercive control is when a person uses any form of violence to exert or maintain power over another person. It is recognised as a pattern of behaviour which aims to instil fear in order to coerce and control.
Coercive control can include other types of violence, including physical abuse, social abuse, emotional abuse, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse and more.
What are the new laws?
From 26 May 2025, coercive control will be a criminal offence in Queensland. This applies to adults who use violence to hurt, humiliate, isolate, frighten or threaten a current or former partner, family member, or unpaid carer. The maximum penalty for this offence will be 14 years imprisonment.
There are also new laws relating to people who are using violence on behalf of someone else. Anyone who is intimidating or abusing a victim-survivor named in a domestic violence order (DVO) or police protection order on behalf of a person using violence could face a fine of 120 penalty units or up to 3 years imprisonment.
It is important to note that these laws will only apply to people using violence after 26 May 2025. If you experienced coercive control before this date, you can contact DVConnect or 1800RESPECT for support. We will listen and we will believe you. Together, we can explore your options and ensure you have a pathway to safety.
What to do if you’re experiencing coercive control
Coercive control is a form of domestic and family violence. If you are experiencing coercive control, we are here to help. Our dedicated counsellors can help you understand your experience and work with you to find a pathway to safety.
If you are seeking a pathway to safety today, please call:
Womensline (24/7): 1800 811 811
Mensline (9am – midnight, 7 days): 1800 600 636
(Trans and non-binary people are welcome – please reach out to whichever helpline you feel most comfortable with.)
If you have experienced recent, ongoing, or historical sexual assault, please call:
Sexual Assault Helpline (7.30am – 11.30pm, 7 days): 1800 010 120
For nationwide support, please call:
1800RESPECT (24/7): 1800 737 732
