16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence: Coercive control and digital violence with Dr Jasmine MacDonald

Conversations for a Brave New World is produced by the Gender Network (feminist, gender and queer research and practice) at CSU. We bring global, national and local issues about gender to the Central West. Each month, we share knowledge, scholarship and research about gender from the diverse perspectives of experts and scholars.

The 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign focuses on ending digital violence the ways technology is used to harm, control, or silence women and gender-diverse people. This month Donna is joined by Dr Jasmine MacDonald, Research Fellow at the Australian Institute of Family Studies. Together, Donna and Jasmine unpack what coercive control is, how to recognise it, its digital dimensions, and what to do if you or someone you know might be affected. Jasmine is also known for her vodcast PsychAttack, where she makes complex psychological ideas engaging and accessible for the wider community.

Trigger Warning: This show will cover sensitive and potentially distressing topics, including gendered violence, sexual assault, and related trauma. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or triggered, please prioritize your well-being and step out or take a break. For anyone needing support, I encourage you to reach out to the following services:

1800RESPECT (National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service): 1800 737 732
NSW Sexual Violence Helpline: 1800 424 017
Central West Women’s Health Centre: (02) 6331 4133
Lifeline: 13 11 14