Human Rights Commission Urges Coronial Inquest into Perth Family Tragedy
The Australian Human Rights Commission has made a formal call for a coronial inquest into a suspected double murder-suicide that claimed the lives of four family members in Perth's affluent Mosman Park suburb. Commissioner Rosemary Kayess emphasised there is "never a justification for family violence or murder", stressing the need for thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.
Tragic Discovery in Mosman Park
Police discovered the bodies of Jarrod Clune, 50, his partner Maiwenna Goasdoue, 49, and their sons Leon, 16, and Otis, 14, at a Mott Cl home on January 30. The property is located approximately 15 kilometres southwest of Perth's central business district in the western suburbs. Authorities currently suspect the parents may have killed their children before taking their own lives, though official causes of death have not been publicly disclosed.
Investigators confirmed that no weapon was used in the incident. A note found on the front door reportedly contained instructions to contact police, while a letter discovered inside the home allegedly discussed the parents' mindset leading up to the tragedy. Both teenage boys had lived with autism and were described as non-verbal according to multiple reports.
Systemic Issues and Support Challenges
Police revealed that Otis and Leon "experienced significant health challenges", with family friends suggesting the family had been struggling following reductions to National Disability Insurance Scheme funding. One educator familiar with the children told media outlets the boys "never slept at night" and described them as "kind-hearted boys who just needed to be understood."
Commissioner Kayess expressed concern that recent NDIS reforms have created additional barriers for families seeking essential support, leaving many "anxious and frightened." She argued that governments must recognise the harm caused by inadequate support systems and act urgently with transparency and accountability.
Political Responses and Community Mourning
Cottesloe MP Sandra Brewer has voiced support for an inquest, stating it would help the community understand what occurred and consider preventive recommendations. Western Australian Premier Roger Cook described the event as "a horrible event which will touch everyone" while urging calm and allowing the investigation to proceed properly.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler declined to comment specifically on the family's NDIS support but acknowledged the tragedy as "awful at so many different levels." NDIS Minister Jenny McAllister defended recent reforms, noting that average plan budgets have increased by 4.7 percent annually for all participants, with higher increases for those in supported independent living arrangements.
Community Vigil and Ongoing Investigation
Approximately fifty community members gathered at Gibbon Park for a vigil organised by the Mosman Park Sisterhood to honour the Clune family. Organiser Fariba Fanaian explained they wanted to "pay our respects and provide a space for our community members to come and reflect and heal." Mosman Park Mayor Paul Shaw acknowledged widespread shock throughout the community.
Commissioner Kayess concluded that without meaningful systemic changes, "tragedies like this will continue", underscoring the urgent need for a coronial inquest to identify underlying issues and provide justice for Otis and Leon. The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the full sequence of events leading to this heartbreaking outcome.
