Queenslanders are becoming more aware that domestic and family violence is not just physical and are coming to understand that abuse can manifest itself in many different ways, some of which continues to occur behind closed doors. Known as coercive control, it is a distinct pattern of behaviour, which research shows can, does, and will all too often, lead to homicide. The topic of coercive control is being discussed more openly and is considered to be just as heinous as physical or sexual violence.
The Queensland Government established the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council (the Prevention Council) in 2020 to deliver greater community understanding about domestic and family violence and to challenge the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours that excuse or perpetuate this abuse.
The Prevention Council partners with government, business and community stakeholders to champion local community-led action and leadership to create social change through primary prevention education and information.
Their work continues with community members, victim-survivors of domestic and family violence and coercive control, their friends and families, in many regions across the state to ensure all Queenslanders can play their part in ending domestic and family violence.
Initiatives include:
- marking the Queensland Government’s Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, held in May each year, and its theme ‘It’s in our control to end coercive control’, the Prevention Council had an important message to share: Love ≠ Control (Love does not equal Control).
- marking 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign that commences on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (25 November) until 10 December (Human Rights Day).
- the Not Now, Not Ever. Together. Breakfastto be held on Friday 8 December 2023 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The 16 Days of Activism, along with the Love ≠ Control storytelling initiative, profiles ten Queenslanders who share their personal experience of domestic and family violence and coercive control, and how they accessed help and support to safely leave abusive relationships.
Watch their powerful stories below and please raise awareness to help eradicate all forms of domestic and family violence.
Watch their personal stories
Angie
Angie’s abuse started in the UK aged 18. Her husband’s cruelty and intimidation lasted 40 years. Despite crippling fear and anxiety, Angie’s daughter Jess helped her with contacting the police for protection.
Ben
Declarations of love, jealousy and isolation from family and friends were red flags for Ben. To keep himself safe from his boyfriend’s growing rage and violence, he made an escape plan with a friend.
Corin
Teenager Corin saw his dad inflicting verbal and physical abuse on his mum, controlling her movements, friendships, and finances. His school principal intervened, contacted police and the family found safety.
Dave
Dave didn’t know Hannah was a victim of coercive control. He is now a community educator and ambassador for Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation after the homicide of Hannah and her children.
Heather
Heather’s abusive relationship made her question many things about herself. Through a strong support network, she was able to escape the relationship and regain her self-worth, happiness, and independence.
Jade
After meeting on an online app, Jade moved in quickly with her abuser. Three years later Jade was left with serious injuries, but finally told authorities about the terror she lived through.
Krystal
Krystal’s movements were monitored and limited. A neighbour and hospital staff intervened after brutal violence, and she realised she no longer had to live in fear.
Lee-ann
Lee-ann was intimidated, monitored, and isolated. After a violent physical assault, she returned to her hometown and re-established her life, career, and family connections.
Lucy
After moving to Australia, Lucy was isolated, controlled and psychologically abused. In her culture, marriage is forever; however, she found safety after a violent physical assault.
Sam
Sam was manipulated and controlled by her abuser, but she was able to end the relationship before it turned to physical violence. Sam is an advocate for women with disability experiencing domestic violence.
FIND OUT MORE
Download the factsheet to find out more about the signs of coercive control.
Visit the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council website or email dfvcouncil@premiers.qld.gov.au
Support options
Support is available for all Queenslanders impacted by any form of domestic and family violence, including coercive control.
For free, confidential crisis support
- DVConnect Womensline (24/7): 1800 811 811
- DVConnect Mensline (9am to midnight, 7 days): 1800 600 636
- Mensline Australia (24/7): 1300 78 99 78
- Kids Helpline (24/7): 1800 55 1800
In an emergency
- Call Triple Zero (000) and ask for Police (24/7).