Home / Crime and Justice / Coroner Blames Treasury For Employee's Death
Coroner Blames Treasury For Employee's Death
22 Aug
Summary
- Coroner found employer's disciplinary process contributed to suicide.
- Couple may sue Treasury for wrongful death following ruling.
- Treasury denies offering condolences or apology post-inquest.
A coroner has ruled that the Treasury's disciplinary process materially contributed to the suicide of 26-year-old Chloe Moffat, a finding that has prompted her parents to consider suing the department for wrongful death. Chloe died last May, just a day after a surprise disciplinary meeting that left her distressed and fearing job loss.
Her parents, David and Anne Moffat, spent a year investigating the circumstances leading to their daughter's death. They discovered that Chloe, described as a cheerful and diligent employee, was blindsided by anonymous complaints and denied support during the disciplinary process, including not being informed of her rights or the likely outcome.
The coroner's narrative finding highlighted that Chloe was denied rights such as knowing the potential consequences of the process, which was a written warning, and the right to have a supporter present. This ambush left her feeling destroyed, according to her mother.
Despite the coroner's findings and a report indicating a risk of further deaths due to the department's handling of disciplinary cases, the Moffats have received no contact from the Treasury offering condolences or an apology. They hope Chloe's case will prevent similar tragedies and ensure lessons are learned.
A Treasury spokesperson stated their deepest sympathies remain with Chloe's family and that the department is considering the coroner's findings carefully, having already introduced improvements to guidance and wellbeing arrangements.
