A former Federal Court judge will undertake an independent review into the adequacy of SafeWork SA’s investigation into the tragic death of Outback nurse Gayle Woodford.

John Mansfield AM QC has been announced as the head of the review which will also examine the agency’s engagement with the Woodford family during its investigation.

Ms Woodford was employed as a nurse in the APY Lands community of Fregon for the Nganampa Health Council (NHC) when she was raped and murdered by Dudley Davey in March 2016. Her killer is serving a life sentence.

In April 2021, SafeWork SA launched an investigation into possible breaches of the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 by NHC after the Deputy Coroner delivered his findings and recommendations into Ms Woodford’s death.

Last month, SafeWork SA determined not to proceed with a prosecution against NHC on the basis there was no reasonable prospect of conviction of criminal offences. This decision was made following independent legal advice from a senior barrister and experienced criminal prosecutor.

Concerns have since been raised about the conduct of the matter by various parties, and the Labor Government is determined to ensure such concerns are investigated thoroughly.

This independent review, led by a widely respected former Federal Court judge, is set to be completed by July 2022 and will be made publicly available.

Its findings will be duly considered in a separate, wide-ranging review of the practices and procedures of SafeWork SA. That review – an election commitment – will consider the agency’s investigative and prosecution functions, and the regulatory framework around work health and safety more broadly.

Quotes

Attributable to Attorney-General Kyam Maher

No review or inquiry can make up for the loss of Ms Woodford, but I want to ensure her loved ones’ views are heard.

I have spoken with those supporting the Woodford family and I thank them for their time and for representing the family’s concerns.

My thoughts are with the Woodford family. I know personally how much Gayle was appreciated by those members of the Fregon community who she worked with and cared for.