MEDIA RELEASE – 10th November 2025
O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors are representing survivors of abuse perpetrated by former corrections officer Wayne Astill at Dillwynia Women’s Correctional Centre. Astill’s actions have been exposed through the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Circumstances of the Conviction and Incarceration of Wayne Astill.
The Final Report, released by the NSW Government, details shocking failures within the state’s correctional system that allowed Astill’s sexual and mental abuse of female inmates to persist over several years. The inquiry uncovered systemic negligence in supervision, reporting, and response mechanisms, resulting in the victimisation of multiple women under his authority.
Standing Beside Survivors
O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors has represented one of the women who suffered at the hands of Astill while detained at Dillwynia. The survivor’s courage in speaking out has been instrumental in revealing the scope of the abuse and prompting this landmark inquiry.
“Our client’s bravery has helped further expose a pattern of institutional neglect that enabled a predatory officer to exploit vulnerable women.”
Peter O’Brien, Principal Solicitor at O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors.
“This inquiry has finally given survivors a voice, but justice doesn’t stop here. We are continuing to pursue civil claims for individuals to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
Call for Other Survivors to Come Forward
We are inviting any other victims who experienced abuse or misconduct by Wayne Astill, or other officers within NSW correctional facilities, to come forward.
Alternatively, if you are a survivor who has opted out of the current class action on foot against Astill, we invite you to come forward, as you are likely entitled to commence proceedings individually.
O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors is actively pursuing civil compensation claims on behalf of survivors and is committed to providing trauma-informed, confidential, and compassionate legal support. Survivors may be entitled to compensation for the harm they suffered, both from the NSW Government and other responsible parties. All enquiries are handled discreetly by our experienced abuse law team.
We are experts in taking civil actions against the state for sexual abuse. No other firm has achieved more successful claims against the state.
For the Press: More Information
The Wayne Astill Special Commission of Inquiry was established after the exposure of widespread sexual abuse and misconduct at Dillwynia Women’s Correctional Centre in Western Sydney. The Inquiry examined not only the actions of former corrections officer Wayne Astill, but also the culture and oversight within Corrective Services NSW that allowed the abuse to continue for years.
The final report revealed serious failings in how complaints were handled and how staff were supervised. It found that many officers and managers ignored warning signs, and that both inmates and staff were discouraged from speaking up. The Commission identified a toxic culture where disrespect and a lack of accountability had become entrenched within the facility.
Among its key recommendations, the Inquiry called for stronger complaint mechanisms and clearer reporting obligations for staff. It also urged the introduction of trauma-informed training across all levels of Corrective Services NSW and greater independence in investigations into staff misconduct.
Contact our Civil Law Team
🌐 O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors
📞 (02) 9261 4281
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