Government issues apology over human remains scandal
Tasmania’s government has issued a formal apology after an investigation uncovered the storage and display of human body parts taken during coronial autopsies without family consent.
The findings show that between 1966 and 1991, pathologists may have collected at least 177 human specimens. They then transferred the remains to the University of Tasmania’s pathology museum in Hobart without approval from next of kin or coroners.
The state acknowledged the matter in parliament on Tuesday, following a report published by the BBC.
Health Minister Bridget Archer addressed affected families during the session. She admitted the long-term harm caused by the practice.
“Although these historical practices ended 35 years ago, the deep impact this has had on the families and loved ones continues,” she said. “These were not just specimens. They were people.”
Investigation exposes long-running museum practice
The issue first surfaced in 2016 after concerns emerged about bone samples in the museum’s collection. Authorities launched a formal coroner-led investigation in 2023.
Coroner Simon Cooper found that a late forensic pathologist, Dr Royal Cummings, supplied most of the specimens. However, he noted that other medical staff may have also participated.
“Pathologists may have actively sourced specimens from coronial autopsies,” Cooper stated in his findings.
The RA Rodda Pathology Museum, established in 1966, removed the 177 specimens from public display in 2018 after concerns about their origin.
Families describe renewed trauma
Families of the deceased attended the parliamentary apology. Many described renewed grief after learning details of the practice.
Cheryl Springfield said the revelation reopened old wounds linked to her brother’s death in 1976.
“It has been a nightmare since we found out,” she said.
Another relative, John Santi, said his family only recently learned that his brother’s remains were held in the collection.
“We buried him 50 years ago,” he said. “Now we learn parts of him were taken.”
University and officials respond
The University of Tasmania also issued an apology. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof Graeme Zosky said staff had engaged with affected families.
“We are sorry for the distress caused,” he said, adding that an apology cannot undo the harm.
The controversy has reignited public debate in Australia over historical medical practices and consent standards in coronial systems.
