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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Jordyn Beazley

Cauchi’s mass murders put harsh spotlight on failings of mental health and police systems

Composite image of a broken pill packet with police tape and footprints walking past
Mental health services haven’t kept pace with population growth, the inquest was told, while psychological distress is increasing across society. Composite: Victoria Hart/Guardian design

Joel Cauchi’s mother didn’t appear before the coronial inquest examining her son’s life and the day her son murdered six people at a popular Bondi Junction shopping centre. But her presence was often felt, taking shape in the form of notes she had written to his doctor or in a conversation with a police officer.

One of the most striking moments of the inquest was when Michele Cauchi, now in her mid-70s, was filmed via body-worn video camera on a police officer.

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