In 2023, we wrote a blog on the Domestic and Family Violence
Protection (Combating Coercive Control) and Other Legislation
Amendment Bill 2022. You can read our article, "Coercive control law changes in
Queensland" here. Since then, there have been further
changes to criminal law in Queensland related to coercive
control.
The Queensland government has made big moves when it comes to
tackling domestic and family violence. From 26 May
2025, coercive control will be a criminal offence with
serious penalties - including up to 14 years imprisonment for
offenders.
Understanding coercive control
Coercive control refers to a deliberate patten of abusive
behaviours aimed at dominating, manipulating and diminishing the
autonomy of another person. Unlike physical violence, coercive
control often manifests through psychological and emotional
tactics, making it less visible but arguably more damaging.
