Coercive Control

Coercive Control 

Coercive Control is a Criminal Offence

On May 26, 2025, Queensland passed legislation criminalising coercive control.

This marks a significant advancement in the fight against domestic and family violence.

Known as Hannah’s Law this reform is named in memory of Hannah Clarke and her three children who were tragically murdered by her estranged husband in 2020. 

The new law criminalises coercive control, recognising it as a serious form of domestic and family violence and a standalone criminal offence in Queensland.

The laws provide greater protection for victims and acknowledge the profound impact non-physical abuse can have on individuals .

The laws apply to abusive behaviours occurring on or after May 26, 2025.  

Understanding Coercive Control

Coercive control refers to a deliberate pattern of abusive behaviours aimed at dominating, manipulating and diminishing the autonomy of another person.

This form of abuse can be physical, but it also encompasses non-physical forms of abuse such as isolation, intimidation, sexual coercion, and cyberstalking and includes actions intended to hurt, frighten or threaten the victim to control or dominate them. 

Recognising Coercive Control

Coercive behaviours often escalate over time and can be subtle, making them hard to recognise.

Coercive control can manifest in various ways, including:

• Isolation: Restricting contact with family and friends. 
• Monitoring: Constantly checking on whereabouts and communications. 
• Financial Control: Limiting access to money or resources. 
• Intimidation: Using threats or fear to maintain control. 

Penalties

The new laws are very clear in establishing coercive control as criminal behaviour which attracts substantial penalty.

Convicted perpetrators can face a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

Under the new law, convicted perpetrators - individuals found guilty of coercive control - can face up to 14 years in prison.