Survivor Urges Criminalisation of Coercive Control in Australia

A survivor of intimate partner violence has called for the criminalisation of coercive control following a tragic incident in New Zealand. The Bay of Plenty woman made her plea after the death of **Maxine Puhi**, a mother from **Tūrangi**, who was killed by her partner in a suspected murder-suicide in **August 2022**. This incident has brought renewed attention to the need for legislation that specifically addresses the harmful dynamics of coercive control.

The survivor, who has chosen to remain anonymous for her safety, emphasized the necessity of clearly defining coercive control within the legal framework. She stated that without specific laws, victims struggle to identify the behavior and seek appropriate legal recourse. “When you don’t have legislation that correctly names and identifies this behaviour, a woman is at risk, basically. Her family is at risk,” she explained.

Legislative Changes in Australia

Recent legislative changes in two Australian states have aimed to tackle coercive control as a distinct form of domestic abuse. These laws allow for better identification and prosecution of such behavior, potentially empowering victims to take action against their abusers. Advocates in New Zealand are urging similar reforms to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable.

According to **NZME**, the survivor’s statement comes amid growing recognition of the impact of coercive control on victims. This form of abuse often manifests through manipulation, intimidation, and isolation tactics, making it difficult for victims to escape their circumstances. The survivor’s call to action highlights the urgent need for comprehensive legal protections.

Supporters of the proposed changes argue that criminalising coercive control could lead to earlier interventions and prevent tragedies like that of **Maxine Puhi**. The survivor noted that having the law explicitly define coercive control would not only help victims identify their situations but also raise awareness in the broader community about the complexities of domestic violence.

Community Response and Next Steps

The response from community organizations has been overwhelmingly supportive of the call for legal reform. Many believe that establishing clear definitions and consequences for coercive control could lead to significant cultural shifts in how society views and responds to domestic violence. Activists are mobilizing to raise awareness and advocate for change in New Zealand’s legal system.

As discussions around this critical issue continue, survivors and advocates are hopeful that the tragic loss of **Maxine Puhi** will not be in vain. They are pushing for immediate action to ensure that legislative changes are made, providing necessary protections for those at risk of intimate partner violence. The survivor’s courageous stand serves as a reminder of the urgent need for reform in the fight against domestic abuse.

In summary, the call for the criminalisation of coercive control is gaining momentum. With the support of community advocates and survivors, there is hope for transformative change in New Zealand’s approach to domestic violence, ensuring that victims receive the protection they deserve.