'It was preventable': Experts slam system after Camp Hill tragedy
The horrors of the Camp Hill deaths are driving a wave of outrage across Australia, with domestic violence experts weighing in to try and make sense of the tragedy.
Rowan Baxter is believed to have doused his children and his estranged wife Hannah with petrol before setting them on fire in Brisbane.
Hannah Baxter with her children. Facebook
Aaliyah, 6, Laianah, 4, and three-year-old Trey died in the blaze, while Ms Baxter died in hospital hours later after suffering horrific burns.
Rowan Baxter died at the scene of self-inflicted stab wounds.
Criminologist Dr Robin Fitzgerald, who specialises in domestic violence cases, said the post-separation period in relationships could be "particularly violent for women".
"There typically is some planning when we look at these domestic violence homicides," she said.
Hannah Baxter and her children died after being doused in petrol and set alight. 9News
Kerry Carrington from the QUT School of Justice said the system had "most likely failed" the victims.
"It was preventable, it was predictable, but we didn't have the systems in place to do that," she said.
Silke Meyer of the Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre said more domestic violence-informed service responses across general service systems would "certainly improve the chances of family safety".
Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636.
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.
MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78.
National Domestic Violence Service: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you are in immediate danger call triple zero (000).
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
