Apology over Hillcrest communication delays following Netflix series release

A Mexican Netflix show depicting a jumping castle disaster blindsided the government, Rockliff says. His department has since apologised.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff speaks One-Year Commemoration of the Hillcrest Primary School tragedy in Market Square in Devonport. Thursday December 15th 2022. Picture: Grant Viney

Premier Jeremy Rockliff says his department has apologised to the families affected by the Hillcrest tragedy for lapses in government communication.

The December 2021 jumping castle tragedy claimed the lives of six children.

In state parliament on Tuesday, Mr Rockliff said the government should have been more prompt in communicating about an upcoming Netflix series which focuses on a jumping castle tragedy.

Set in Mexico, The Accident focused on the deaths of three children when a sudden gust of wind picks up a jumping castle. Netflix says the series is fictional.

In response to a question from independent Miriam Beswick, Mr Rockliff said he accepted the government could have done better communicating with the community.

“I recognise that it was far too long between communications, and I have spoken with the secretary of the Department of Premier and Cabinet about this matter,” he said.

“The department, as I understand, has apologised for not communicating with families in relation to the recent documentary, which we unfortunately had no prior knowledge of.

“I made my comments very clear when I became aware of the documentary, and I am sure all members would agree with the sentiments that many have expressed, no doubt including you, privately, Mrs Beswick, about the impact of that documentary, and the massive insensitivity that was on display there.”

Ms Beswick described the delays in communicating with those affected as regretful.

“It was not until I raised the issue with the Minister for Education that an email was sent via the communication register that rightly mentioned the distasteful Netflix series depicting a jumping castle disaster.

“Unfortunately, that was not until nine days after the program was causing distress on social media.”