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yesterday

Erin Patterson Granted Leave, Files Appeal Over Mushroom Murders Convictions

Prosecutors are separately challenging her 33-year minimum term as too lenient in a case now moving to the Victorian Court of Appeal.

Convicted killer Erin Patterson (L) leaves the Supreme Court of Victoria in Melbourne on September 8, 2025. An Australian judge sentenced Patterson on September 8 to life in prison with parole after 33 years for killing three people with toxic mushrooms, capping a trial that sparked a global media frenzy.
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Overview

  • Patterson’s convictions appeal has been lodged and accepted, with the grounds yet to be disclosed by the court.
  • She was found guilty in July of murdering three relatives and attempting to murder a fourth by serving a beef Wellington containing death cap mushrooms at a 2023 lunch in Leongatha.
  • Justice Christopher Beale sentenced her in September to life imprisonment with a 33-year non-parole period, making her eligible for parole in 2056.
  • Acting DPP Diana Piekusis KC has appealed the 33-year minimum as manifestly inadequate, arguing the judge erred in weighing likely long-term protective custody.
  • A temporary court rule doubled the filing window and enabled today’s appeal, with both sides’ challenges expected to be listed for hearing in 2026; reports say Julian McMahon SC will represent Patterson.