Queensland’s Coercive Control Laws And What They Mean For Victims Of Domestic Violence
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On 26 May 2025, Queensland introduced landmark laws that fundamentally changed how domestic and family violence is addressed. Under the Criminal Law (Coercive Control and Affirmative Consent) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2024, coercive control is now a standalone criminal offence. This reform represents a significant step forward in recognising and responding to nonphysical forms of abuse that often occur behind closed doors.
The legislation is widely known as Hannah’s Law, named in honour of Hannah Clarke and her children, whose tragic deaths in 2020 prompted national calls for stronger protections against domestic violence. The law acknowledges that abuse is not always visible and that patterns of control, intimidation and manipulation can be just as harmful as physical violence.
In This Article:
Understanding Coercive Control
Coercive control refers to a deliberate pattern of behaviour designed to dominate, manipulate and restrict another person’s freedom and autonomy.
Unlike isolated incidents, coercive control is characterised by ongoing conduct that gradually erodes a person’s independence, confidence and sense of self. It is often subtle and may be disguised as care or concern, making it difficult for victims and those around them to recognise.
Common signs of coercive control include constant monitoring or demands for updates, control over money or personal documents, isolation from friends and family, gaslighting that causes a person to doubt their own experiences, intimidation or threats, sexual pressure framed as obligation, and noticeable anxiety or withdrawal. While these behaviours may appear minor in isolation, their cumulative impact can be severe.
How Coercive Control Fits Within Domestic Violence
Domestic violence includes a wide range of abusive behaviours used to control, dominate or harm another person in an intimate, family or informal care relationship. This includes physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and financial abuse, as well as threats, intimidation and behaviour that causes fear or restricts freedom.
Coercive control is a core form of domestic violence. It often underpins more visible acts of abuse and is a common factor in escalating violence. Because it is deeply psychological and ongoing, its effects can be long-lasting and profoundly damaging, even in the absence of physical harm.
What The New Queensland Laws Cover
Under the Criminal Code in Queensland, a person commits the offence of coercive control if they engage in a course of conduct involving domestic violence on more than one occasion, the conduct occurs within a domestic relationship, the person intends to coerce or control the other person, and the behaviour is reasonably likely to cause harm when viewed in all the circumstances.
Importantly, harm does not need to have already occurred. The test is whether a reasonable person in the same position would be likely to suffer mental, emotional, psychological, financial or physical harm as a result of the behaviour. This allows the law to address patterns of abuse before they escalate further.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of fourteen years imprisonment.
The reforms were introduced in 2024 and are effective from May 2025, and represent a major shift in Queensland’s approach to domestic violence and sexual offences. In addition to creating a standalone coercive control offence, the legislation introduces an affirmative consent model for sexual activity. This requires active and voluntary agreement, rather than an absence of resistance, and strengthens legal protections around consent.
The laws also criminalise stealthing, which involves the non-consensual removal of a condom during intercourse. This conduct is now recognised as a form of sexual assault and can result in serious criminal charges.
How Queensland Compares To Other States
Queensland is the second state in Australia to criminalise coercive control as a standalone offence, following New South Wales.
However, Queensland’s laws carry one of the highest maximum penalties in the country. Other states address aspects of coercive control through family violence legislation or are still considering reforms, making Queensland’s approach one of the strongest and most comprehensive.
Why These Laws Matter
These reforms aim to shift community understanding of domestic violence by recognising that control and manipulation are serious forms of abuse. By identifying and criminalising harmful patterns of behaviour earlier, these laws seek to prevent escalation and reduce the risk of severe violence and domestic homicide.
The legislation also provides police and courts with clearer tools to intervene and offers victims greater validation, protection and access to justice. For many victim survivors, the recognition of coercive control as a crime acknowledges the reality of their experiences and the harm they have endured.
Seeking Help And Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control, support is available. Assistance can be sought through the Queensland Police Service or specialist domestic violence support services.
Confidential support is available through DV Connect on 1800 811 811 and 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
These services can assist with safety planning, counselling, accommodation and guidance around domestic violence orders.
How RHC Solicitors Can Help
If you are experiencing coercive control or need assistance with domestic violence orders or related family law matters, our experienced family law team is here to support you.
If you would like confidential advice about coercive control, domestic violence orders, or your legal options, we invite you to book a free 30-minute consultation with our experienced family law team. This initial consultation allows you to discuss your situation, understand your rights, and explore the next steps in a safe and supportive environment.
Disclaimer: This publication is not intended to be comprehensive, nor does it constitute legal advice. We are unable to ensure the information is current and there is no guarantee in relation to accuracy. You should seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content of this publication. The views and/or opinions expressed in this publication is that of the author and may not necessarily represent the views and/or opinions of RHC Solicitors.
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