Domestic violence (DV) is an issue that affects millions globally, and here in Australia, it remains a pressing concern. Over the years, reforms have evolved to better protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable, but there is still much work to be done, particularly in recognising newer forms of abuse like coercive control. This blog article unpacks what domestic violence looks like, how Australian laws are changing, and where to turn for help if you or someone you know is in need.

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence isn’t just physical; it encompasses a broad range of abusive behaviours. It can include emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse. These behaviours are used to manipulate, intimidate, and control another person, often within the context of an intimate relationship.

One emerging form of DV that is gaining attention is coercive control. This is a pattern of behaviour aimed at controlling, isolating, or depriving a person of their independence. Unlike physical violence, coercive control can be more insidious, involving threats, humiliation, and control over finances, social connections, and daily life. It's a form of psychological warfare designed to strip away autonomy and make the victim wholly reliant on the abuser.

Coercive Control and Australian Legal Reforms

In recent years, Australia has begun to recognise the dangers of coercive control, and some states are pushing for legal reforms to make it a criminal offence. In 2023, NSW introduced laws that make coercive control illegal, following in the footsteps of Scotland, which has been a global leader in criminalising this behaviour since 2019. Other states in Australia, such as Queensland and Tasmania, are also considering or have enacted similar laws.

These reforms aim to offer better protection to victims who may not have experienced physical violence but are subjected to emotional and psychological abuse that can be just as damaging. The challenge, however, remains in how to effectively detect, prove, and prosecute cases of coercive control, as it requires law enforcement to understand and identify patterns of behaviour rather than isolated incidents.

What About Parental Alienation?

Another controversial issue tied to domestic abuse is parental alienation. This occurs when one parent deliberately damages a child's relationship with the other parent, often during separation or divorce. In some parts of the world, such as the United States and Canada, parental alienation is recognised in the legal system and can be considered a form of psychological abuse. 

However, in Australia, parental alienation is not currently recognised as a form of domestic violence. While it may come up in family court cases, it doesn't carry the same weight as other forms of abuse. This can leave parents feeling helpless when their relationship with their children is being manipulated by an ex-partner, adding to the emotional toll of an already difficult separation process.

Recognising the Signs of Domestic Violence

Understanding the signs of domestic violence, including coercive control, can be critical in identifying when you or someone you know might be in an abusive situation. Some common signs include:

• Isolation: Your partner limits your access to family, friends, or support networks.

• Control over finances: You're not allowed to work, access money, or make financial decisions independently.

• Monitoring: Your partner constantly checks your phone, social media, or whereabouts.

• Verbal abuse: Insults, belittling, or constant criticism aimed at undermining your confidence.

• Threats: Threats of harm to you, your children, or even pets if you don't comply with their demands.

If these behaviours sound familiar, you may be experiencing coercive control, which is now legally recognised as a form of abuse in some Australian states.

The Emotional and Practical Challenges Victims Face

One of the hardest aspects of escaping domestic violence is often the emotional and practical challenges involved. Victims may feel:

• Fear: Fear of retaliation or harm if they attempt to leave.

• Shame: A sense of failure or embarrassment, especially if friends and family aren’t aware of the abuse.

• Financial Dependence: Feeling trapped because of limited financial resources or the belief that they cannot survive independently.

• Concern for Children: Worrying about the impact on children or fearing that they will lose custody.

• Confusion and Gaslighting: Coercive control can distort reality, making the victim question their own perceptions and feel as though they are overreacting.

It’s vital to acknowledge that leaving an abusive relationship is incredibly complex, and every person's situation is unique.

Where to Get Help in Australia

If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, there are many organisations and services ready to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out:

• 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732): A national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service that operates 24/7.

• Lifeline (13 11 14): Provides confidential crisis support and suicide prevention services.

• MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78): A telephone and online counselling service for men with family and relationship concerns, including domestic violence.

• Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800): Provides 24/7 counselling support for children and young people aged 5 to 25.

• Safe Steps (1800 015 188): Victoria's 24/7 family violence response centre, offering emergency accommodation and support.

• Legal Aid: Free legal advice is available in each state and territory for victims of domestic violence.

Taking the First Step

Leaving an abusive relationship is not easy, but it’s important to know that support is available. Taking that first step can feel overwhelming, but by reaching out to a trusted service, you can begin the journey toward safety and freedom. No one deserves to live in fear, and with the changes in Australian law, there is hope for better protection and justice for those impacted by domestic violence.

Your safety and wellbeing matter. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate, call 000.