Coercive control in relationships is something that can frighten victims so much they're unable to make safe decisions.
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That's why it needs to become a criminal offence according to domestic violence advocates.
Calls for law reform to tackle domestic violence in Queensland continue to grow after the murder of Hannah Clarke and her three children by an estranged partner last week.
Coercive control of a partner would be a crime under an LNP proposal for a range of reforms announced by State Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington.
Domestic violence advocate Diane Mangan has backed the changes, adding she regularly sees how much threats and intimidation can harm families.
"It diminishes women so psychologically that they're unable to make safe decisions for themselves and their children," Ms Mangan told media on Wednesday.
"And when they do get away they look back and think what was I thinking but you see they're in that moment of fear."
"We do know how insidious these perpetrators are."
Ms Frecklington called on the state government on Wednesday to consider a full review of the criminal justice system in relation to domestic violence.
She also proposes more assistance for domestic violence survivors which includes one-off emergency assistance grants of up to $2000 to help families leave dangerous situations.
"We owe it to Hannah, her three children, and the countless other victims and survivors of domestic violence to do whatever it takes to make Queensland safer," Ms Frecklington said.
She noted coercive control is a criminal offence in the United Kingdom and many domestic violence victims are controlled by a range of means, including via their mobile phones.
Ms Frecklington said she has not spoken with Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk about the reforms, but said her party would back changes if they are announced.
Queensland Tourism Minister Kate Jones broke down in tears talking about domestic violence reform in the state at a Brisbane press conference on Wednesday.
Ms Jones says she welcomes any suggestions to reduce domestic violence when asked about the state opposition calling for bipartisan support for law reform.
"Like every Queenslander I've been heartbroken to see those kids and what's happened to them," Ms Jones told media before pausing.
"Sorry ... I know we've worked really hard when it comes to domestic violence.
"So look, you know, if we have bipartisan support on domestic violence reform then that's a good thing for Queensland."
The Queensland Women's Legal Service announced an urgent priority list of reforms earlier this week in the wake of the recent murders.
Among a range of measures, it included a review of how domestic violence is dealt with, legislative changes with a consideration of coercive control becoming a criminal offence and an overhaul of the training of police and courts.
Australian Associated Press
