MEDIA RELEASE
009.09 12 February 2009
Malu Sara tragedy: DIAC acts on coroner’s findings
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will closely and
carefully study, and respond to, the findings handed down today by the
Queensland State Coroner, into the loss more than three years ago of five
people on board the immigration vessel, the Malu Sara.
Secretary Andrew Metcalfe said the October 2005 tragedy shocked and
saddened everyone in the department. It led to a major review to ensure DIAC
did everything it could to ensure there was never a repeat of the tragic loss of
life.
“At the core of the department’s actions at the time was our concern for the
immediate and extended families, friends and colleagues of those who were
lost. I again extend our sympathy to them,” Mr Metcalfe said today.
Mr Metcalfe said much work had already been done to improve immigration
operations in the Torres Strait to avoid a repeat of the tragedy.
“DIAC has not simply waited for the various inquiries into this tragic accident
to be completed before taking action,” Mr Metcalfe said. “We immediately
withdrew the boats from service following the tragedy and commenced an
internal investigation into aspects of the loss of the Malu Sara.
“We undertook a review of our Torres Strait operations and established a
North Queensland headquarters based in Cairns. In addition, a dedicated
Contracts and Procurement Advice section was established to provide staff
with expert in-house legal advice at every stage of the procurement process.
“The department also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with other
Commonwealth agencies operating vessels in the Torres Strait, governing the
sharing of marine assets, and standards and procedures for the operation of
boats,” he said.
Mr Metcalfe said given the coroner’s findings that departmental officer Garry
Chaston should be investigated for a possible breach of the APS Code of
Conduct, he was instituting an investigation under the Public Service Act.
The department would consider the outcome of the coronial inquest to
establish what further action it might need to consider.
“Clearly there are also major implications for other agencies and individuals,”
the secretary said. “DIAC cooperated fully with the coroner and has also
cooperated with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau [ATSB] during its
investigations. We also continue to cooperate fully with Comcare during its
investigation,” he added.
Media enquiries: DIAC National Communications (02) 6264 2244
NEWS 
