The first in-depth national examination of victim-survivors’ views on the impacts of the criminalisation of coercive control finds widespread support, tempered by caution. 

With several Australian states considering or actively implementing laws to criminalise coercive control, this report aims to centre the voices of victim-survivors in the policy debate. The report presents findings from interviews with 130 victim-survivors of coercive control across Australia. It presents their perspectives on the need for a standalone offence, the potential benefits and risks associated with criminalisation, and guidance for safe and effective implementation.

The survey respondents emphasised that criminalisation alone is insufficient and should be accompanied by broader societal changes, including increased awareness, education, and prevention efforts, as well as training for legal professionals and support services for victim-survivors. 

Key findings

• The majority of victim-survivors expressed strong support for criminalising coercive control. 
• Criminalisation is viewed by victim-survivors as a way to recognise the severity of abuse, hold perpetrators accountable and deter future offending.
• Victim-survivors hoped criminalisation would lead to increased safety, improved police response and greater community awareness of coercive control.
• Potential risks include misidentification of the primary aggressor, exacerbation of existing inequalities for marginalised communities, and the potential for perpetrators to weaponise the law against victim-survivors.