What Is Classed as Domestic Violence in Queensland, Australia?

Domestic and family violence (DFV) affects people from all walks of life, and in Queensland, the law clearly outlines what behaviours are considered domestic violence. Many people still believe DV is only physical violence—but that’s just one part of a much broader picture. In reality, DV often starts with emotional and verbal abuse that escalates over time.

Understanding what constitutes domestic violence is vital for recognising harmful patterns, seeking support, or holding ourselves accountable if our actions are causing harm.

Legal Definition of Domestic Violence in Queensland

Under the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (Qld), domestic violence is defined as behaviour by one person towards another that is:

• Physically or sexually abusive

• Emotionally or psychologically abusive

• Economically abusive

• Threatening or coercive

• Or any other behaviour that controls or dominates a person and causes them to fear for their safety or wellbeing (or for someone else’s safety)

This applies to people in current or former intimate relationships, family members, and even informal carers.

Verbal and Emotional Abuse – A Common and Damaging Form of DV

Verbal and emotional abuse are often the least visible, but they can be deeply damaging and long-lasting. These behaviours can slowly erode a person's confidence, self-worth, and mental health over time.

Examples of Verbal Abuse:

• Constant yelling or name-calling

• Using degrading or humiliating language

• Mocking or belittling someone in public or private

• Using threats or intimidation to gain control

• Blaming the other person for everything (even your own actions)

Examples of Emotional or Psychological Abuse:

• Repeated criticism or put-downs

• Gaslighting (making the person doubt their memory, feelings, or reality)

• Withholding affection or silent treatment to punish

• Jealousy, possessiveness, or controlling behaviour disguised as "love"

• Isolating someone from their friends, family, or support networks

These forms of abuse can be just as destructive as physical violence, and are recognised under Queensland law as domestic violence.

Other Behaviours Considered Domestic Violence

Physical Abuse

• Hitting, slapping, choking, pushing

• Breaking objects or punching walls to intimidate

• Threats to physically harm someone, their pets, or property

Sexual Abuse

• Pressuring or forcing someone into unwanted sexual activity

• Using threats or guilt to gain sexual compliance

• Not respecting boundaries or consent

Economic Abuse

• Controlling all money or forcing financial dependence

• Denying access to joint bank accounts

• Racking up debts in the other person’s name

Coercive Control

• A pattern of manipulation, control and domination

• Tracking movements, controlling access to phone/social media

• Threatening self-harm to prevent someone leaving

Who Can Be Affected by Domestic Violence?

DV is not limited to married couples. It can occur in:

• Current or former de facto relationships

• Dating relationships

• Parent-child or sibling relationships

• Informal care relationships (e.g. someone caring for an elderly or unwell person)

Support Is Available

If you’ve recognised that your own behaviour may be causing harm—support is available. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Hayes Counselling Services

Hayes Counselling Services offers confidential support for individuals and couples affected by domestic and family violence, including those who want help changing harmful behaviours. Support is available for both men and women.

Email: bhazy@hotmail.com 

Website: Hayes Counselling services | Counselling for Relationships, Domestic Violence and Alcohol and Other Drugs

QueenslandNon-judgemental | Trauma-informed | Confidential

You don’t need to wait for things to “get worse” before seeking help. Emotional abuse, verbal aggression, and controlling behaviour are serious issues—and healing is possible.

Final Words

Domestic violence is more than just physical harm. It's any repeated behaviour that controls, intimidates, or hurts another person in a relationship. Verbal and emotional abuse are often overlooked, but they are just as serious. Whether you're experiencing it or recognising your own behaviour, taking the first step can lead to lasting change.