Building Knowledge to Combat Coercive Control: Training for Change

This week, in recognition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, The Family Co./SSWDVCAS team participated in a transformative training session on coercive control. Hosted by the Sutherland Shire Domestic Violence Committee and generously supported by Sutherland Shire Council, the training served as a powerful reminder of the importance of education, collaboration, and action in addressing gender-based violence.

Understanding Coercive Control

Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour that isolates, intimidates, and manipulates a partner, depriving them of independence and freedom. It is a critical issue often hidden in plain sight, making it one of the most insidious forms of domestic abuse.

The training, facilitated by CCWT (Centre for Community Welfare Training), was designed to equip local domestic violence workers with the tools and practical skills to better support clients experiencing coercive control. This timely initiative aligns with the upcoming implementation of the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022, which will create a new offence for coercive control in intimate partner relationships starting in July 2024.

A Response to Legislative Change

The introduction of coercive control legislation in New South Wales represents a significant step forward in addressing domestic abuse. It sends a clear message that controlling and manipulative behaviours in intimate relationships are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

For frontline workers, this legislative change underscores the need for deeper understanding and enhanced skills to identify and address coercive control effectively. Training like this ensures that domestic violence workers are prepared to respond with compassion, expertise, and confidence, empowering clients on their journey to safety and healing.

Empowering Through Education

The training was not only informative but also deeply engaging, fostering a shared commitment among attendees to improve support services for victim-survivors. Participants gained insights into:

• Recognising Coercive Control: Understanding the behaviours and tactics used to dominate and control a partner.
• Practical Intervention Strategies: Equipping workers with tools to help clients navigate coercive situations safely and effectively.
• Collaborative Best Practices: Sharing knowledge and approaches among agencies to enhance collective impact.

Collaboration in Action

In addition to the training, the session provided a valuable opportunity for representatives from agencies on the Sutherland Shire Domestic Violence Committee to network and discuss best practices. Collaboration is a cornerstone of effective advocacy, and events like these strengthen the bonds between organisations working toward a shared goal: ending domestic and family violence.

The Role of The Family Co.

At The Family Co., we believe education is a powerful tool for change. By participating in initiatives like this training, we are not only deepening our expertise but also reinforcing our commitment to building safer, healthier communities.

Our team is dedicated to:

• Advocating for systemic change to protect victim-survivors.
• Providing frontline support and resources for those experiencing coercive control.
• Collaborating with local committees and organisations to share knowledge and drive impactful action.

Looking Ahead

As we continue the 16 Days of Activism, we reflect on the importance of events like this training. They remind us that change begins with awareness, grows through collaboration, and is sustained by action.

We are grateful to the Sutherland Shire Domestic Violence Committee and Sutherland Shire Council for their support in hosting this crucial training and to CCWT for facilitating such an insightful and impactful session.

Join Us in the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

The fight against coercive control and gender-based violence requires collective effort. We invite you to:

• Learn more about coercive control and its impact on individuals and families.
• Partner with us to advocate for systemic change and support survivors.
• Share resources and knowledge within your community to promote understanding and action.

Together, we can create a future where every individual feels safe, valued, and free from violence. Let’s continue to walk this path together, driven by hope, determination, and a shared vision for a better tomorrow.

Visit our Programs PageRefer to The Family Co.