Coercive control is a pattern of behaviors that someone uses to dominate their partner, making them feel scared and isolated.
It’s a form of domestic abuse that can deeply affect a person’s life and well-being.
Signs of Coercive Control:
- Isolation: Keeping you away from family and friends.
- Monitoring: Constantly checking where you are and who you’re with.
- Manipulation: Using threats or guilt to control your actions.
- Financial Control: Restricting your access to money or employment.
- Regulating Daily Life: Dictating what you wear, eat, or when you sleep.
Impact on Victims:
Those subjected to coercive control may experience:
- Loss of self-confidence.
- Feelings of anxiety or depression.
- Physical health issues due to stress.
- Social withdrawal from loved ones.
Resources and Support:
If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control, it’s important to seek help:
- National Support Services:
- 13YARN: A crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Call 13 92 76.
- 1800RESPECT: National sexual assault, domestic, and family violence counseling service. Call 1800 737 732.
Community Commitment:
Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council is dedicated to raising awareness about coercive control and supporting those affected.
We encourage community members to educate themselves, support one another, and to use available resources to create a safe and supportive environment for all.
You can learn more about “Coercive Control” and also find useful resources by clicking on this link here Coercive Control | Attorney-General’s Department
‘Strong Together’ artwork – Dunguludja Yapaneyepuk (in Yorta Yorta language)
Created by Bayadherra
Dunguludja Yapaneyepuk meaning ‘strong together’ in Yorta Yorta language depicts the establishment and implementation of genuine and respectful relationships within the community to advance resilience, strength and personal growth of victim‑survivors of coercive control. Pink and purple yarning circles are a communal meeting place to gather together, sharing stories and experiences in a culturally safe environment. The yarning circles are linked by orange journey lines which represent community connection and the shared journey of healing, promoting the development of inner confidence and resilience. The colour orange is reflective of the Sun, The Giver of Life who we draw strength and warmth from on this journey. The white dots surrounding these yarning circles acknowledge community understanding and outreach; these dots will spread outwards to represent the increase of community understanding and awareness of victim‑survivors’ stories to provide greater support. The use of pink links to bloodlines, nurturing and the importance of family and support networks towards holistic healing.
The dashed blue lines represent the formation of different healing pathways of victim‑survivors. These lines are organic and free-flowing to acknowledge how healing and growth is a personal experience and differs for each individual. The flowing river, waterholes and surrounding dots emphasise water as an important element of Country and culture. Water holds significant properties towards physical, emotional and spiritual healing and symbolises the rejuvenation of our spiritual wellbeing.