Coercive Control to be criminalised in NSW but enforcement concerns remain

The New South Wales government is expected to criminalise coercive control following a parliamentary inquiry.

Supporters of the move have suggested that it will improve the safety and wellbeing of domestic violence complainants across NSW.

However, questions remain about whether the laws will be enforced.

There is also widespread concern amongst the community that the laws will be disproportionately applied against indigenous communities, those from non-English speaking backgrounds and the mentally ill.

What is Coercive Control?

Coercive control is a pattern of behaviours used by a person to control their partner and create an uneven power dynamic.

It often involves manipulation and intimidation to make a victim scared, isolated, and dependent on the abuser.