BRISBANE, Australia – Hannah Clarke’s tragic story continues to haunt the hearts of many as her father, Lloyd, reveals the harrowing details of her final moments. The mother and her three children, Aaliyah, Laianah, and Trey, were set ablaze by her estranged husband, Rowan Baxter, in February 2020. The devastating incident prompted a national discussion on domestic violence in Australia.
In a heart-wrenching account, Lloyd Clarke shared how his daughter reached out to him during her last moments, calling for the nation to enact laws targeting coercive control. He emphasized how his daughter’s final phone call to him serves as a haunting metaphor for the plight of victims of coercive control, a form of abuse that strips individuals of their voice and identity. The killer exhibited classic signs of coercive control, dictating every aspect of Hannah’s life, isolating her from family, and exhibiting manipulative behavior.
Lloyd Clarke’s poignant retelling of Hannah’s ordeal shines a spotlight on the urgent need for legislative action to address coercive control in Australia. He called on other states to follow the lead of New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania, which have initiated laws targeting coercive control. These laws aim to halt the cycle of domestic violence, providing important support for victims and preventing further tragedies.
As Lloyd Clarke’s powerful plea resonates across the nation, Australia grapples with the urgency of enacting measures to recognize and combat coercive control. The hope is to prevent further tragedies and protect individuals from falling prey to such insidious forms of abuse. If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please seek support from 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline at 13 11 14.