New evidence in Hawke murders could lead to coronial inquest

The WA Ombudsman has released new details of the case involving the murders of three children in the Pilbara region, which could potentially lead to a coronial inquest. The children, aged 10, seven, and four months old, were killed by their mother Margaret Hawke in South Hedland. Despite the grandmother initially calling for an inquest, it was denied by then Coroner Phil Urquhart.

However, with growing scrutiny, the Ombudsman Bevan Warner stated that media coverage prompted the release of this information to maintain public confidence. Premier Roger Cook acknowledged this new information but did not request Attorney-General Tony Buti to initiate an inquest. Buti has consistently stated he cannot order an inquest without fresh evidence, citing legal advice.

Former Governor Malcolm McCusker and former Children's Court president Denis Reynolds challenged this stance, asserting that the attorney-general does have the authority to direct the coroner to conduct an inquest. Should new evidence emerge that wasn't considered by former Coroner Urquhart, Buti indicated he would consider exercising his power to order an inquest.

Meanwhile, a review into child protection in the Pilbara has been announced, led by National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People Sue-Anne Hunter. The review will examine how agencies respond to children and families, their effectiveness, and the actions needed for improvement.