2024 Audio Short (Under 20 Minutes)

This report exposed systemic failures in safety and management within a psychiatric facility for vulnerable children. It was the culmination of a three-year investigation led by Ayla Darling and ABC Investigations after they uncovered reports documenting alleged sexual assaults in mental health wards across several states.

Darling interviewed hundreds of patients, families, and healthcare workers. Ultimately, it was the brave testimony of a 13-year-old girl that brought the story to light, and Darling spent a year communicating with the family and understanding the trauma-informed reporting needed to safely tell her story.

The investigation was based on years of research, including numerous freedom of information requests, government incident reports and testimonies from hospital whistleblowers. Darling and Hannah Palmer obtained sensitive hospital reports, verified details under strict privacy regulations, and adhered to child protection laws. The reporting led to more families coming forward with stories of sexual abuse and prompted crucial discussions in state parliament, including an announcement of the refurbishment of the ward and a reevaluation of sexual safety measures.

Ayla Darling is a journalist at the ABC. Hannah Palmer is a radio producer for triple j, Hack.