The tragic deaths of Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19-year-old Australians, have left their families grappling with grief and frustration. In a troubling oversight, they learned of the court’s decision on the matter through other victims rather than from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
In response to this communication lapse, the department issued an “unreserved apology” to the families, acknowledging their failure to keep them adequately informed throughout the proceedings. This incident has highlighted a significant shortcoming in how the department handles such sensitive matters.
“The Department prides itself on its commitment to consular service and ensuring that the interests of consular clients and their families are paramount. On this occasion, we fell short of our aspiration,” read a statement released this morning. They emphasized their continued efforts to press for a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure justice is served for Holly and Bianca.
Prior to this, the fathers of Bowles and Jones voiced their dissatisfaction with being left out of the loop as the court case unfolded behind closed doors. Their frustration underscores the expectation citizens have for their government to advocate for justice, especially when tragedy strikes abroad.
Mr. Jones, speaking to 9news, expressed this sentiment plainly: “As citizens of this country, we expect the government to look after their people and get justice for their citizens when they go traveling.”
“As citizens of this country we expect the government to look after their people and get justice for their citizens when they go travelling,” Mr Jones told 9news yesterday.
“We can’t get into the country. There’s nothing more we can do. We need the government to do something because we are out of options,” Mr Bowles added.
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