Lloyd and Sue Clarke, parents of Hannah Clarke, have announced they are stepping back from their active roles in the Small Steps 4 Hannah foundation. The decision, revealed two days ago, stems from the profound emotional strain the advocacy work has placed upon them following the tragic deaths of their daughter and three grandchildren.
The Clarkes established the charity, Small Steps 4 Hannah, to channel their grief into advocating against domestic violence, a cause they have championed relentlessly since the murders. Their efforts were instrumental in Queensland’s criminalization of coercive control, a significant legislative change that came into effect on May 26, 2025. Despite stepping back from day-to-day operations, the couple hopes their daughter's story will continue to resonate and that people will not forget.
The emotional weight of their journey, marked by years of inquests, public appeals, and continuous advocacy, has evidently become unsustainable. Reports suggest the couple wishes to transition to a more behind-the-scenes role, and Mr. Clarke previously expressed a desire to spend more time on the Sunshine Coast.
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A Legacy Forged in Tragedy
The violence inflicted upon Hannah Clarke and her children, Aaliyah, Laianah, and Trey, by Rowan Baxter, Hannah's estranged husband, in February 2020, sent shockwaves across Australia. The horrific nature of the attack—setting their car alight—highlighted the extreme danger posed by domestic violence and coercive control.
Before their deaths, the Clarkes admit they had limited understanding of coercive control, a realization that fueled their subsequent advocacy. Their campaign has focused on educating the public and pushing for legal reforms to prevent similar tragedies. This includes lobbying for increased awareness of the signs of abusive relationships, such as isolating victims from their families, controlling their communications, and monitoring their movements.
Advocacy and its Costs
The creation of the Small Steps 4 Hannah foundation was a direct response to the devastating loss. The charity has aimed to foster community awareness regarding domestic violence and advocate for legal reform. The Clarkes have been vocal about the toll this work has taken, with Mrs. Clarke previously stating, "Time doesn't heal."
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Their efforts have included contributing to initiatives like "Hannah's Story," a training program aimed at preventing such violence, though Queensland Police have not yet adopted it. They also explored concepts such as creating safe housing or gated communities for domestic violence victims, a testament to their ongoing commitment to supporting those in vulnerable situations.
The intensity of their public role has been evident, with radio host Neil Breen notably breaking down during an interview with the couple in April 2022, underscoring the profound public empathy and the deep sorrow surrounding their experience. The Clarkes' commitment to honouring Hannah's legacy, despite the personal cost, remains a central theme in their public narrative.
