Heathcote MP Maryanne Stuart has welcomed the launch of a new website to help raise awareness and educate the public on coercive control, a known precursor to domestic violence.

The website provides information to broaden the understanding of coercive control in current or former intimate partner relationships.

It provides accurate descriptions and examples of coercive control and includes information about what the legislative reforms mean, who they apply to, how to recognise patterns in behaviour that could lead to this form of abuse and where and how to seek help.

To learn more, visit the coercive control website here: nsw.gov.au/coercive-control.

Heathcote MP Maryanne Stuart said:

“Domestic abuse and violence are extremely serious matters and should be treated as such.” she said

“Unfortunately, domestic violence continues to have a significant impact on the community. Nearly 700 incidents of domestic violence related assault were recorded in the Sutherland Shire in 2022, a 10% increase over the rates of five years ago.

“Nearly 700 incidents were also recorded in Wollongong LGA.

“I encourage members of the public to visit the website to learn more about coercive control and how we can work together to prevent domestic violence.”