The recent findings by State Coroner Liberty Sanger have shed light on a critical oversight in handling cases of domestic violence, particularly in the tragic case involving a murderer with a troubling history of such abuse. This revelation has prompted a call for a thorough review of police risk assessment procedures. Sanger emphasized that the individual’s longstanding pattern of family violence should have triggered heightened concern and necessitated specialized scrutiny.
According to the findings released today, Sanger highlighted that the situation should have been identified as a high-risk case. The coroner’s remarks underscore the need for more stringent measures in assessing threats posed by individuals with a history of domestic violence.
In the incident at hand, when law enforcement officers responded, the victim, Hamka, had already departed the scene. Subsequently, when contacted by the police, she denied that any incident had occurred. This denial, however, contrasts sharply with the account provided by Hamka’s sister, who informed the officers that the incident did indeed happen and that Loughnane had previously inflicted severe harm upon her.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is a police report that indicated there were no prior family violence reports involving the parties, despite Loughnane’s documented history of domestic abuse. This discrepancy highlights the crucial need for a reassessment of how such histories are factored into risk evaluations by law enforcement.
Her sister, however, told police the incident did take place, telling officers Loughnane had also “bashed her really bad previously”.
A police report noted the parties had no previous family violence reports despite Loughnane’s history of family violence.
A jury found him guilty of murder and, in February 2025, he was sentenced to 28 years’ imprisonment with 20 years non-parole.
Judge Sanger did not suggest a different rating would have prevented Hamka’s death or that it was wrong under the relevant policy, but said it may have overlooked the gravity of Loughnane’s violence.
“Even if the risk assessment tool did not assess this as high risk, in my view, this does not obviate the need for members to use professional judgment,” the coroner wrote.
Judge Sanger recommended the state government fund an independent evaluation of Victoria Police’s risk models and Family Violence Investigation Units.
Support is available by calling 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732, Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
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