Radio: Stefan Armbruster Malu Sara Tragedy, SBS Radio
Stefan Armbruster was the first to report on the continuing injustice befalling the families of victims of the Malu Sara tragedy.
About this winner
- Year: 2011
- Level: Winner
- Award category: Media award
About the 2011 nomination
Stefan Armbruster was the first to report on the continuing injustice befalling the families of victims of the Malu Sara tragedy.
By developing close contact with the families and victims of this tragedy, Armbruster was able to give voice to their immense distress and frustration with the legal system which continues to haunt them many years after the immigration patrol boat sank in the Torres Strait on 15 October 2005.
Despite paying out compensation over the last 12 months, the Queensland Government has decided against pursuing criminal prosecutions for the tragedy that killed five islanders.
Although the Department of Immigration and Citizenship and the boat builder have received unprecedented fines under federal workplace health and safety laws, the Queensland Government has not changed its position.
Queensland's Crime and Misconduct Commission is now contesting what it considers to be the inadequate internal police disciplinary action against the police sergeant responsible for the botched search and rescue operation.
Armbruster's compelling reporting demonstrates that for many islanders, the case has confirmed their feelings of neglect and of being treated unjustly by the federal and Queensland governments .
About the Human Rights Awards
The Australian Human Rights Awards is an inspirational showcase of the best in all of us. The Awards honour and celebrate diverse human rights heroes and significant achievements in protecting and promoting human rights in Australia.