Today, I stood at NSW Parliament and heard the words I have fought so hard to hear.
Caitlin’s Law.
I cannot bring my beautiful daughter Caitlin back. Nothing will ever change that.
But if her name and her story can bring peace to other families, protect them from unnecessary trauma, and spare them the heartbreak of feeling like they have lost their loved one twice, then her legacy will mean something far greater than the pain that began this fight.
To victims of domestic and family violence — control will no longer continue beyond life.
To our Indigenous communities — may your cultural goodbyes, traditions and right to lay your loved ones to rest be respected and restored.
To foster children and children whose lives have been shaped by circumstances beyond their control — may you rest peacefully, surrounded by the people and the place where you truly belong.
And to every person who leaves this world — may you be afforded the dignity, respect and peace you deserve.
I am only one mum, but today I stand for so many.
My deepest thanks to Premier Chris Minns, Attorney General Michael Daley, Emma Hurst and Minister Jodie Harrison for the empathy, understanding and support you have shown throughout this journey.
To Change.org — thank you for your endless support, encouragement and advice, and for helping one mum’s voice become the voice of tens of thousands.
To every person who signed, shared, spoke up and stood beside me — this belongs to you too.
And to my family and friends: I love you. Without you, I would not be writing this today. Your love has carried me through the days I didn’t know how I could keep going.
But most importantly…
To my beautiful Caitlin Rose Thornton.
I couldn’t save you.
I couldn’t bring you home.
But I promised I would fight for you.
Your life mattered.
Your story mattered.
And your name will never be forgotten.
Today, my darling girl, I give you Caitlin’s Law. 💜
May your name now protect others in the way I wish I could have protected you.
This is Caitlin’s legacy.
Control does not continue beyond life.