Feeling trapped, isolated or humiliated in your relationship? These feelings can be indicative of domestic violence, which is not always physical in nature. Coercive control is a pattern of abusive behaviour that can leave victims feeling powerless and trapped.
Understanding Coercive Control in Family Law
Coercive control is a pattern of abusive behaviour and tactics used by a perpetrator to gain power or control over their partner. These tactics may include:
- Monitoring their every move
- Reinforcing traditional gender roles
- Controlling their sexual relationship
- Limiting access to money and other resources
- Gaslighting
- Isolating them from friends, family, and support networks
- Controlling their appearance and clothing choices
It's crucial to recognise and identify patterned abusive behaviour, as victims may lose the ability to control their lives or feel emotionally trapped.
Legal Protection in Victoria, Australia
In Victoria, coercive control is recognised as a form of family violence under the Family Violence Protection (Vic) 2008 and its Preamble. The civil jurisdiction allows for Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIO) to be applied for, providing legal protection and imposing conditions on the perpetrator.
Conditions of an FVIO may include:
- Prohibition of committing family violence against the protected person
- Prohibition of intentionally damaging the protected person's property or threatening to do so
- Prohibition of attempting to locate, follow, or surveil the protected person
- Prohibition of publishing material about the protected person online or through electronic communication
- Prohibition of contacting or communicating with the protected person by any means
- Prohibition of approaching or remaining within a certain distance of the protected person
- Prohibition of going to or remaining within a certain distance of where the protected person lives, works, or attends school/childcare
How Forty Four Degrees Can Help
Our team of experienced family lawyers at Forty Four Degrees is well-versed in matters concerning family violence. We will guide you through the legal process and devise a strategy to ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones. All discussions with Forty Four Degrees will remain confidential.
Other Support Networks
Various support networks can assist with practical and emotional needs:
- 1800respect: Contact Us | 1800RESPECT
- White Ribbon Australia: Help lines - White Ribbon Australia
- Women's Community Shelters: Home - Women's Community Shelters (womenscommunityshelters.org.au)
- Safe Steps: Safe Steps phone number and contact details
- The Orange Door: Contact Us | The Orange Door
- Lifeline: Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 - Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention.
Please remember that being a victim of family violence is not your fault. Never blame yourself for your abuser's actions or conduct. Reach out to a professional to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
Santino Romanella is a lawyer at Forty Four Degrees Pty Ltd.
