Starting 26 May 2025, coercive control will become a criminal offence in Queensland under the legislation known as "Hannah’s Law." This law was enacted in response to the tragic 2020 murders of Hannah Clarke and her three children, highlighting the dangers of non-physical forms of domestic abuse.
- What is Coercive Control?
- Coercive control refers to a pattern of abusive behaviors—such as emotional, psychological, financial, or social abuse—used to dominate and isolate a person over time. These behaviors can include intimidation, surveillance, isolation from support networks, and micromanagement of daily activities. Unlike physical violence, coercive control often goes unnoticed but can have devastating effects on victims' autonomy and well-being.
- Key Provisions of the Law Criminal Offence: Engaging in coercive control will be a standalone criminal offence, carrying a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.
- Scope: The law applies to adults in domestic relationships, including current or former intimate partners, family members, or informal (unpaid) carers.
- Definition of Harm: Harm is defined broadly to include any detrimental effect on a person's physical, emotional, financial, psychological, or mental well-being, whether temporary or permanent.
- Third-Party Involvement: It will also be an offence for individuals to engage in domestic violence on behalf of a perpetrator, such as friends, family members, or hired private investigators. Penalties for this offence can include fines or imprisonment.
- Implementation and Support
- The delayed commencement of the law until May 2025 allows time for:
- Training: Police officers and legal professionals will receive specialized training to identify and respond effectively to instances of coercive control.
- Public Awareness: Educational campaigns will be launched to inform the public about the signs of coercive control and available support services.
- Support Services: Resources will be allocated to support victim-survivors and to develop programs aimed at holding perpetrators accountable. Seeking Help
- If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control or domestic violence, support is available:
- Emergency Assistance: Call Triple Zero (000) and ask for Police if you are in a dangerous or life-threatening situation.
- DVConnect: Offers 24/7 crisis support at 1800 811 811.
- 1800RESPECT: Provides confidential counselling support at 1800 737 732.
- For more information on coercive control laws and support services in Queensland, visit the Queensland Government's official page on coercive control. Brisbane Children’s Contact Centre Pty Ltd, 2025