Kathleen Folbigg has vehemently criticised the $2 million compensation proposal from the New South Wales Attorney-General for her wrongful imprisonment spanning two decades. Described as “woefully inadequate” and “ethically indefensible,” Folbigg’s reaction follows her tumultuous journey—from being labelled Australia’s worst female serial killer after her conviction in 2003 for the deaths of her four children to having her convictions overturned and being released in 2023.
After spending years in prison for the deaths of Patrick, Sarah, Laura, and Caleb between 1989 and 1999, Folbigg sought an ex gratia payment—essentially a goodwill gesture without a legal obligation—intended to avoid litigation against the state. The Attorney-General, Michael Daley, confirmed that her application was thoroughly reviewed before presenting the $2 million offer, which has since been met with scorn from her legal team.
Folbigg’s solicitor, Rhanee Rego, denounced the compensation amount as “profoundly unfair and unjust,” emphasising that it fails to acknowledge the extensive trauma and suffering endured by Folbigg over the years. “Kathleen has lost her four children and two decades of her life, suffering enduring consequences from this experience,” Rego stated, asserting that the government’s response should reflect the psychological and emotional turmoil caused by the wrongful conviction.
The contrast in compensation for wrongful convictions in Australia further highlights the perceived inadequacy of Folbigg’s offer. For instance, Lindy Chamberlain, exonerated in 1994, received $1.7 million for three years spent in prison, while David Eastman, who spent 19 years in jail, was initially offered $3 million—later successfully challenging it to receive $7 million. Henry Keogh was awarded $2.57 million following his exoneration.
Rego is advocating for an inquiry into how the NSW government determined the compensation figure for Folbigg, stressing that her ordeal has not been satisfactorily recognised. “Her struggle should be resolved. After enduring injustice and suffering in prison, she is met with contempt by the very system that should facilitate her healing,” she concluded.
Folbigg’s case continues to spark discussions about the legal system’s responsibility and the adequacy of compensation for those wrongfully imprisoned in Australia.