Coercive control

In November 2022, the NSW Parliament passed the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022.

This Act makes coercive control in intimate partner relationships a criminal offence. The offence occurs when an adult engages in a ‘course of conduct’ of abusive behaviour that is intended to coerce or control another person. Coercive control is an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten victims. 

Coercive behaviour can be between current or former partners. Examples of this behaviour are:

– Cutting you off from family, friends or other support networks
– Monitoring your online and offline activity throughout the day
– Restricting access to finances to deny you freedom or autonomy
– Gaslighting
– Name calling and severe criticism
– Controlling your health and body
– Physical or emotional threats against your loved ones

The Coercive control legislation came into effect on 1 July 2024 and is punishable by up to seven years imprisonment. The intention of the new law is to address patterns of abuse in relationships that are not always physical but can be equally as damaging.

If you been charged with Coercive control and need legal advice or are seeking further information about Coercive control, call North Shore Criminal Law on (02) 9955 2298 or our 24 hour Emergency Service on 0400 44 64 24.