A coroner is expected to propose enhancements to the mental health system in response to the tragic events involving Joel Cauchi, a 40-year-old man diagnosed with schizophrenia as a teenager. In April 2024, Cauchi went on a stabbing spree at Westfield Bondi Junction in Sydney, killing six individuals and injuring ten others. At the time of the incident, Cauchi was reportedly exhibiting psychotic symptoms.
An ongoing inquest has revealed that Queensland Police missed several opportunities to reconnect Cauchi with the mental health services he needed before the attack. Evidence presented at the inquest highlighted that, despite his history of mental illness, there were moments where police could have facilitated his access to treatment and medication.
Living homeless and separated from his family in Toowoomba near Brisbane, Cauchi had ceased taking his prescribed medication in 2019 and had not seen a psychiatrist since 2020. During the inquest, police officers advocated for an increase in mental health specialists within the force. They also called for clearer legislation regarding the involuntary treatment of mentally ill individuals, with the goal of avoiding confusion about when such examinations can be mandated.
Inspector Bernard Quinlan, who oversees the vulnerable persons unit in the Queensland Police, emphasised the need for a response to mental health crises that extends beyond police involvement. He stated, “Mental health shouldn’t just be a police response,” advocating for a health-focused approach.
Counsel assisting, Peggy Dwyer, suggested that adjustments to police powers regarding mental health intervention will likely be a key recommendation from the inquest. Attention was drawn to a specific incident in January 2023, when Cauchi reached out to police, accusing his father of stealing his knives, which he claimed were crucial for his financial stability. A requested follow-up visit by police was overlooked due to an administrative error, an “oversight” that underscored the systemic failings in addressing his mental health needs.
The impact of this oversight was poignantly felt by the co-ordinator overseeing mental health incidents, who expressed her emotional response in court, highlighting the devastating consequences of missed opportunities. This incident is part of a broader narrative, as testimony indicates that police face increasing pressures due to the rising number of mental health-related calls, despite limited training in this area.
As the inquest continues, it is crucial to address these systemic failures to ensure that similar tragedies can be averted in the future. For anyone needing support, Lifeline can be contacted at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636.