NSW Minister Faces Pressure as Children Lived With Convicted Killer
The New South Wales minister for families and communities, Kate Washington, has issued a public apology amid escalating demands for an independent investigation. This follows revelations that Regina Arthurell, a convicted triple killer, was residing in a home with two foster children, aged 12 and 14, until her removal on Monday.
Systemic Failures Under Scrutiny
Washington confirmed the situation on 2GB radio, admitting she only learned of it after the broadcast. She announced a departmental review to examine the multiple system failures that allowed Arthurell to remain in the home, despite a report being made to the department in December. On Thursday, Washington stated, "I'm not going anywhere," and emphasized that an urgent review is already underway. She added, "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 Accountability
Child welfare advocates and political figures are pushing for an independent inquiry to ensure transparency and accountability. The Association of Community Welfare Associations (Acwa) supports an independent review, 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, expressed 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 serious consideration of an external review, highlighting that "multiple systems failed to act on reports concerning the safety and care of these two young people."
Police and Legal Oversight Issues
NSW police visited the address on February 11 after reports of a domestic incident, though Arthurell was not present. Meanwhile, NSW Attorney General Michael Daley faced scrutiny for not renewing an extended supervision order for Arthurell, which expired in December 2024. At budget estimates, Daley blamed Corrective Services NSW, stating a high-risk offenders assessment committee did not refer Arthurell for further consideration. A spokesperson for CSNSW explained that such committees involve multiple agencies, including NSW police and Justice Health.
Background on Regina Arthurell
Arthurell, who is transgender, was convicted of two counts of manslaughter and one count of murder for killings committed before her transition. These include the stabbing death of her stepfather in 1974, a robbery killing in 1981, and the bludgeoning murder of her former partner in 1995, for which she received a 24-year sentence. In a 2021 hearing, a supreme court justice acknowledged her rehabilitation efforts but noted a "proclivity to violently terminate the lives of fellow human beings."
Political and Institutional Responses
NSW Premier Chris Minns defended Washington, stating he would not ask for her resignation and calling her role one of the most difficult in government. The secretary of the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, Michael Tidball, is overseeing the review, aiming to complete it quickly without compromising quality. The office of the NSW children's guardian has pledged to participate in any government response or inquiry as appropriate.
