Coercive Control – A National Crisis

Coercive control, a pervasive form of domestic abuse, has become a pressing concern across Australia. Recent statistics reveal that in 2024 alone, 35 women have lost their lives to men known to them. Reviews in the ACT and NSW reveal that coercive control played a role in nearly every domestic violence death over the past two decades.

In response to this crisis, Australian states have taken legislative action to criminalise coercive control. Queensland has passed legislation to make coercive control a criminal offence from 2025 while New South Wales implemented similar measures in July 2024. These legal changes underscore the need for comprehensive training and education for law enforcement, frontline workers, and the public to effectively address coercive control.

Recognising the importance of a unified approach, the Australian Government has developed the National Principles to Address Coercive Control in Family and Domestic Violence. These principles aim to foster a shared understanding of coercive control and its impacts, encouraging collaboration across various sectors to combat this form of abuse.

To further address this issue, The Hatchery is holding an event, bringing together industry experts to discuss the complexities of coercive control and share strategies for intervention and prevention. The conference offers a valuable opportunity for frontline workers to enhance their skills and knowledge in supporting victims and survivors of coercive control.

For more in-depth information on legislative changes and the upcoming conference, readers are encouraged to explore our latest magazine article. 

Join us in the fight against coercive control by staying informed and actively participating in initiatives aimed at ending domestic violence.