‘Her life mattered, her love mattered’: Tammy Shipley remembered by grieving family at inquest into her death in custody
The Guardian World
by Sarah CollardFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Tammy Shipley, a 47-year-old Indigenous Australian woman, died in custody at Silverwater Women’s Correctional Centre in New South Wales while on remand for minor shoplifting charges. An inquest into her death revealed that she was a loving and joyful mother who adored her five children and two grandchildren. Known for creating TikTok videos and picking tomatoes from her garden for her family, Shipley’s life was marked by love and joy despite facing systemic challenges.
Shipley was arrested on 14 December 2022 and died just six days later on 20 December under mysterious circumstances. The inquest heard emotional testimony about her character and the impact of her loss on her family. Her death has sparked concerns about the treatment of Indigenous women in custody, particularly those detained for minor offenses. Advocates argue that her case highlights broader issues of inequality and over-policing within Indigenous communities.
The details surrounding Shipley’s death remain under investigation, with questions raised about the conditions of her detention and whether her health was properly monitored. Her family and supporters emphasize the need for systemic changes to prevent similar tragedies. This case underscores the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous Australians in the criminal justice system and the importance of addressing racial disparities in law enforcement.
Shipley’s story resonates globally as a reminder of the intersectionality of race, gender, and economic status in shaping experiences within the justice system. Her life, though cut short, continues to inspire calls for reform and accountability, making her case a critical topic for readers interested in human rights, social justice, and Indigenous issues worldwide.
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/24/2026