South Australia becomes third state to criminalise coercive control

South Australia has become just the third state to criminalise coercive control as a form of domestic violence. 

The new laws, which passed state parliament today, aim to address controlling behaviour within intimate relationships, but will not come into effect for two years.

The legislation targets actions such as restricting a partner's freedom of movement, their ability to engage in activities, and their autonomy in making choices about their own body.

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"It's not every day that you pass legislation that will save lives," Attorney-General Kyam Maher said. 

"This will save lives."

The passage of the legislation has been welcomed by Sue and Lloyd Clarke, whose daughter Hannah and her three children were murdered in Queensland five years ago. 

The Clarkes have since become advocates for recognising and addressing coercive control. 

"These perpetrators are masters at manipulation," Lloyd said.

"It's silent, it's unseen, it's behind closed doors and even the victim tries to make excuses for the perpetrator," Sue added.

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Despite the legislation passing parliament today, the laws will not come into effect for two years, a delay the government has defended as necessary to ensure proper implementation. 

"We've really looked at lessons from around the world and the lessons are to take the time to get it right," Domestic Violence Prevention Minister Katrine Hildyard.

During the implementation period, consultations will be undertaken with support services, the courts, and the police, with the aim of ensuring the legislation is effectively applied and to prevent future instances of coercive control. 

"I like to believe that if we had coercive control laws, we may have (Hannah) and her children here with us now," Sue Clarke said.

Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.