Coercive control: SA’s new laws to combat hidden abuse

Here we explain the landmark legislation and why it’s a life-saving measure.

Director of the Office for Women, Dr Sanjugta Vas Dev, says the new coercive control legislation, introduced to State Parliament in August, is a necessary shift in how we understand domestic violence.

“This bill is very, very important, because it’s a significant step for South Australia to recognise the seriousness and the profound damage and harm that coercive control can cause in relationships, but also to the community,” she says.

“Historically, when we think about domestic violence, it’s often understood as physical violence, sometimes sexual violence, and as single acts of violence where a woman has been hurt,” she says.

“I think now… we know that violence in intimate partner relationships can include emotional abuse and harassment and controlling behaviours that take place over time.”

Examples of coercive control can include:

• isolating someone from their friends or family

• monitoring their movements or online activity

• controlling their finances or access to basic necessities