The New South Wales government has launched an independent review into the case of a four-year-old boy who was allegedly murdered by his mother at a home on the Central Coast.
NSW Minister for Communities and Family Kate Washington announced the review into the case on Monday, two days after the boy’s body was found on Saturday afternoon.
Police attended a property in Wyong on Saturday after a 31-year-old woman attended the local police station, triggering a welfare check. Officers searched a unit where they found the body of the four-year-old child who had suffered significant arm injuries.
Police sources have confirmed that cannibalism will form part of an investigation into the boy’s death. The woman has been charged with murder (DV) and refused bail.
On Monday, Minister Washington confirmed the NSW Department of Communities and Justice had received and responded to a number of reports relating to the family, the most recent one being 18 months ago. The independent review will be led by former president of the NSW Children’s Court, Peter Johnstone.
Washington told reporters there were “many complexities” in the case and the review would look into a range of issues, including if it was appropriate the boy had remained in his mother’s care after safety reports had been made, as well as his mother’s drug use and mental health issues.
“There are many people across New South Wales today who are asking how this has happened, and whether or not more could have been done to protect this child,” Washington said.
“My heart goes out to family, loved ones and, and this little boy’s community.”
Washington said she hoped the independent review would deliver a report by the end of 2026.
Natasha Maclaren-Jones, the NSW opposition’s families and communities spokesperson, said the case raised serious concerns about the child protection system.
“My thoughts are with the child’s family, loved ones and everyone in the community affected by this unimaginable loss. This is a heartbreaking tragedy,” she said.
“The people of NSW deserve transparency, an independent review into this case, and a clear plan to strengthen frontline child protection services before another tragedy occurs.”
Maclaren-Jones noted issues including chronic understaffing and unsustainable workloads for frontline staff.
The case has been adjourned until 1 September.
Community vigil
Members of the Wyong community came together on Monday afternoon to hold a vigil for the young boy. Organiser Haylee Elizabeth Dickinson said did not know the family but she had grown up close to where the young boy lived and wanted to do something to provide the community with a chance to pay their respects.
“As a mother and as speaking for every other member in the community I know for a fact that this has absolutely shattered a lot of people,” she said.
“Rest in peace, beautiful boy. You’ve left a mark on every single member of this community.”
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