Coercive Control is Now a Crime
Coercive Control is Now a Crime: What You Need to Know
At The Purple Arrow, we believe knowledge is power—especially when that knowledge can
protect you or someone you care about.
As of 2025, coercive control is officially recognised as a criminal offence in several
Australian states. That means perpetrators of this form of abuse can now face jail time. This
is a critical step in acknowledging the dangerous, often invisible harm coercive control
causes.
But what is coercive control, and how can you recognise it—especially when it doesn’t leave
physical bruises?
What is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour used to dominate, isolate, and control another
- Monitoring your phone or social media
- Controlling your finances
- Isolating you from friends or family
- Making you feel worthless or constantly afraid
- Demanding to know where you are at all times
- Using threats, intimidation, or gaslighting to keep control
You may feel like you’re walking on eggshells, even though no laws have been visibly “broken”—until now.
It’s Now a Criminal Offence
In states like Queensland and New South Wales, coercive control is no longer just “concerning behaviour”, it’s a crime punishable by imprisonment. This means police and courts now have greater powers to intervene before physical violence occurs.
If you suspect you’re experiencing coercive control, documenting what’s happening can be vital. You don’t need to wait for physical abuse to get help.
Strategies for Staying Safe & Documenting Coercive Control
If it’s safe to do so, consider:
- Writing things down: Keep a private journal (digital or physical) with dates, times, and specific incidents. Even subtle patterns matter.
- Saving messages or voicemails: Screenshots, emails, or recordings can support your case. (send these to a trusted friend in case the perpetrator deletes them from your phone)
- Using code words with a trusted friend to signal if you’re in danger or need help.
- Setting up a secure email address where you can store evidence that can’t be
accessed by the abuser.
Always ensure that your notes and files are stored in a safe, private place—and consider reaching out to a domestic violence support worker or legal advisor for guidance.
- Monitoring your phone or social media
- Controlling your finances
- Isolating you from friends or family
- Making you feel worthless or constantly afraid
- Demanding to know where you are at all times
- Using threats, intimidation, or gaslighting to keep control
If any of these resonate with you, you are not alone—and it’s not your fault. Help is available,
and now, the law and The Purple Arrow is on your side.
Reach Out
Coercive control thrives in silence. You don’t have to go through it alone. At The Purple
Arrow, we’re building a network of tools, support workers, and resources to help you take
your power back—safely.
If you or someone you love is experiencing coercive control, reach out to a domestic
violence support service in your area, or email The Purple Arrow at
[email protected]
You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to be free.