Queensland Passes Historic Legislation to Criminalize Coercive Control and Affirmative Consent Laws: What’s Next?
The Queensland parliament has passed historic legislation to make coercive control a crime in the state, with bipartisan support. This new law will criminalize the insidious pattern of controlling, isolating, and manipulative behavior within relationships, which can include verbal abuse, financial control, emotional abuse, and social isolation. Premier Steven Miles emphasized the importance of recognizing coercive control as a crime, stating that it can have deadly consequences.
The legislation was passed following emotional debates in which MPs shared personal stories, highlighting the devastating impact of domestic and family violence. Shadow Health Minister Ros Bates recounted witnessing her mother being a victim of coercive control as a child, underscoring the need for this new law to protect vulnerable individuals.
Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman credited the tireless advocacy of victim-survivors and their families for the passing of these landmark reforms. The legislation also includes new affirmative consent laws, requiring free and voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity.
The laws are set to come into effect next year, marking a significant step forward in addressing domestic and family violence in Queensland. Advocates and victim-survivors have welcomed these changes but have called for additional funding for frontline services to support those affected by these crimes. The passing of these laws represents a crucial milestone in the ongoing fight against coercive control and domestic violence in Australia.