Maddie Page, a dedicated support worker who cared for autistic teenagers Leon and Otis Clune for more than ten years, has stepped forward with an emotional tribute that has moved the Australian community. In the wake of the suspected double murder-suicide that claimed the lives of the brothers, aged 16 and 14, along with their parents Jarrod Clune, 50, and Maiwenna Goasdoue, 49, and even the family pets, Page has refused to stay silent. Speaking out publicly for the first time since the bodies were discovered at their Mosman Park home in Perth’s affluent western suburbs on February 2, 2026, she described the parents as the boys’ “biggest, fiercest supporters” while condemning the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for failing the family at their most vulnerable moment.

The tragedy unfolded when a carer—believed to be Page or a colleague—arrived for a scheduled visit early that Friday morning and found a note on the front door instructing them not to enter and to call emergency services. Police discovered the four family members deceased inside the Mott Close property, alongside two dogs and a cat. A second note reportedly indicated the parents had made a joint decision to end their lives and those of their sons, leading authorities to classify the incident as a suspected murder-suicide. The Western Australia Police continue their investigation, with a report being prepared for the coroner, but no official cause of death has been released pending autopsy results.

Page, an autism mentor who had built a deep bond with Leon and Otis, shared her grief on social media and in interviews. She wrote that the boys “captured my heart” and taught her invaluable lessons about communication beyond words. “I witnessed firsthand the immense love within their family, as well as the courage and resilience they showed during times of extreme difficulty and countless obstacles,” she said. “The consistent dedication and deep love Mai and Jarrod showed for their boys, and the ways they never stopped fighting for them to feel seen and heard in this world will never be forgotten.” Yet, in the same breath, she expressed profound sorrow over the NDIS system’s shortcomings: “My heart feels unbearably heavy knowing that the NDIS system failed them, and that they were made to feel they had no other choice.”

The family’s struggles reportedly intensified after cuts to their NDIS funding, which provided essential support for the non-verbal autistic brothers who faced significant health challenges. Friends and advocates have highlighted how the parents, often described as exhausted and under immense pressure, advocated tirelessly for their sons. School newsletters from the boys’ earlier years painted pictures of happy, innocent childhoods filled with endearing moments, contrasting sharply with the desperation that culminated in the tragedy. Neighbors and community members recalled a loving household, but one strained by the demands of round-the-clock care without adequate external help.

Page’s revelations have amplified calls for reform. The Australian Human Rights Commission’s Disability Discrimination Commissioner Rosemary Kayess expressed heartbreak and concern over narratives that might justify the act based on the boys’ disabilities, insisting such burdens should never excuse family violence. Disability advocacy groups like Every Australian Counts echoed condolences while urging no speculation during the police probe. Federal Disability Minister Mark Butler described the event as an “unspeakable tragedy” but cited privacy laws preventing comment on specific NDIS packages.

Tributes poured in across Mosman Park. A memorial service was held on Wednesday night, drawing community members to honor the family. School communities reflected on the boys’ lives through old newsletters showcasing their personalities—Leon as a happy, engaging teen and Otis as his younger, equally cherished brother. Autism mentors and carers shared how the Clunes navigated challenges with resilience, but the system gaps left them isolated.

The incident has sparked broader debate on NDIS adequacy for families with high-needs children. Critics argue funding reductions and bureaucratic hurdles force carers into impossible positions, leading to burnout. Page’s words underscore this: despite the parents’ fierce advocacy, they felt trapped, believing no alternatives remained. Her emotional plea—”NDIS – do better”—resonates with many families facing similar pressures.

As Mosman Park mourns, Page leads tributes while unveiling painful truths. The boys’ smiles, captured in family photos, remind everyone of lives full of potential cut short. The parents’ love, evident in their lifelong fight, clashes tragically with the outcome. This case highlights systemic failures that demand urgent attention—better funding, mental health support for carers, and safeguards against desperation.

Leon and Otis Clune deserved lives of dignity and support. Their story, through Page’s voice, challenges society to confront how we care for vulnerable families. Until reforms ensure no one feels “no other choice,” the grief will linger, urging change to prevent future heartbreak.