Australian Schoolgirl Lilly Wal’s Family Demand Justice After Drowning Death in Fiji

Lilly’s family has alleged that local tour operators knowingly led them into a dangerous situation without properly informing them of the risks, despite heavy rainfall and other tourist groups cancelling their planned crossings of the waterfall due to unsafe conditions.

In an emotional social media post, Lilly’s cousin Chiara Subek described the tragedy as a devastating loss for the family. “What was meant to be a beautiful getaway for my aunty and her little family instead became the most traumatic experience,” she wrote.

Ms Subek claimed Lilly’s death was the result of a “complete failure in duty of care”. She alleged the family was never properly briefed on the risks, never given safety warnings, and never told what to do if it started raining, even though locals later told them people are not supposed to go up to the waterfall during rainfall.

According to the family, they were taken up to the waterfall with no proper preparation, guidance, or clear safety protocols in place. Ms Subek further alleged that the group was led along the trail by a child who was not affiliated with the tour guide company.

The family also accused the tour operator of prioritising money over safety, claiming they were overcharged and pressured to proceed with the experience despite obvious risks. Ms Subek said that following Lilly’s death, there was a shocking lack of accountability and compassion from those involved.

She further claimed there was little response from local leadership or police, alleging that the village chief did not reach out to the family or acknowledge responsibility, and that police failed to act promptly at the time of the incident. Ms Subek also alleged that police later attempted to blame the family for the tragedy.

“The investigation has not been taken seriously, and it feels like they are trying to brush it aside,” she wrote. “This is about duty of care, tourist safety, and protecting children and families. We want accountability, awareness, and change, so no other family ever has to experience this pain. We need justice for our sweet Lilly.”

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed it is providing consular assistance to the family. “We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time. Due to privacy obligations, we are unable to provide further comment,” a spokesperson said. Fiji Police have been contacted for comment.