NSW Minister Faces Pressure as Children Found Living with Convicted Killer
The New South Wales Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington, has issued a public apology following revelations that a convicted triple killer, Regina Arthurell, was residing in a home with two foster children aged 12 and 14. The situation, uncovered by a radio broadcast, has ignited widespread calls for an independent review into the state's child welfare systems.
Minister's Response and Apology
Washington confirmed that Arthurell was removed from the home on Monday, shortly after the radio report aired. She admitted to learning about the case only through the broadcast and announced a departmental review to investigate the multiple system failures that allowed this to occur. Despite a report being made to the department in December, no action was taken until this week.
In a statement to Guardian Australia, Washington asserted, "I'm not going anywhere," emphasising her commitment to addressing the issue. She highlighted that an urgent review is already underway, stating, "This situation was entirely unacceptable, and it's important that I front up and apologise for what has happened. Vulnerable children in the care of the state should not be living with a triple killer."
Calls for Independent Scrutiny
Child welfare advocates and political figures are demanding an independent inquiry, arguing that internal reviews lack accountability. The Association of Community Welfare Associations (Acwa) expressed support for external scrutiny, noting that "independent scrutiny can play an important role in identifying what went wrong, ensuring lessons are learned and strengthening safeguards for children."
Imogen Edeson, CEO of the Create Foundation, voiced outrage, saying she was "appalled that two children under the care of the state were living in a home with a convicted killer." She called for a review by an external authority, citing apparent systemic failures. Similarly, NSW Greens spokesperson Sue Higginson criticised the department investigating itself, stating, "The department should not investigate themselves. That's not how accountability works."
Background and Legal Oversight
Regina Arthurell, who is transgender, has a violent criminal history, including convictions for manslaughter and murder from incidents prior to her transition. In 2021, a Supreme Court justice acknowledged her rehabilitation efforts but noted a "proclivity to violently terminate the lives of fellow human beings." An extended supervision order (ESO) placed on her after release in 2020 expired in December 2024, with NSW Attorney General Michael Daley blaming Corrective Services NSW for not referring her for further assessment.
NSW police visited the home in February following a domestic incident report, though Arthurell was not present at the time. The removal occurred weeks later, raising questions about delayed intervention.
Government Stance and Future Actions
NSW Premier Chris Minns has declined to ask for Washington's resignation, describing her role as "one of the most difficult jobs in government." The secretary of the Department of Communities and Justice, Michael Tidball, is overseeing the review, aiming to complete it quickly without compromising quality. A spokesperson for the NSW Children's Guardian confirmed participation in any government response or inquiry.
As investigations proceed, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of vulnerable children and addressing the lapses that led to this alarming situation.
