Queensland criminal law underwent a major reform in 2025 with the introduction of a standalone offence of coercive control. The offence commenced on 26 May 2025 and represents a significant shift in how domestic and family violence is treated under criminal law.
Specifically, it sits under Section 344C of the Criminal Code 1899.
What is Coercive Control
Traditionally, criminal charges in domestic violence matters focused on specific acts, such as assault, stalking or property damage.
Coercive control refers to behaviour that seeks to dominate, isolate, or manipulate another person in an intimate or family relationship. Importantly, the offence does not require proof of a single violent act. Instead, the prosecution must establish that the accused engaged in a course of conduct intended to control or coerce another person:
- isolating a partner from friends or family;
- monitoring communications or movements;
- controlling finances or access to money;
- threats or intimidation;
- repeated harassment or humiliation.
These behaviours may individually appear minor but can become criminal when they form part of a broader pattern designed to control another person.
Penalties
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment. Courts will consider a range of factors when assessing whether the legal threshold is met, including the duration of the conduct, the nature of the relationship, and the impact on the alleged victim.
Evidence may include:
- text messages and emails;
- financial records;
- witness statements;
- historical relationship evidence.
Because coercive control involves a pattern of behaviour over time, cases may rely on evidence spanning months or even years.
Practical Implications for Criminal Cases
For individuals under investigation, early legal advice is particularly important. These matters often involve extensive digital evidence and detailed examination of relationship history.
Criminal defence lawyers must carefully analyse whether the alleged conduct meets the statutory definition and whether the prosecution can establish a course of conduct beyond reasonable doubt.
Our team are experts in criminal law. Our role is to sit down with you and work out the strategy that will get you the best possible result. If you have any questions about this article or any other topic of law, please call our team of experts on 1300 066 669.
