May 28, 2026 — 4:00pmA remorseless criminal who bashed Lauren Huxley to near-death, doused her in fuel and lit her home on fire has been refused bail because he denies his crimes against the “miracle” woman.Robert Black Farmer, in 2005, broke into the then 18-year-old’s home and shattered her skull with a pair of fibro cutters, tied her up with electrical cords and tried to burn the scene – with Huxley inside.Lauren Huxley prepares for her 30th birthday in 2016.Dominic LorrimerFor 20 years, Farmer has sat inside prison denying his crimes, which include wounding with intent to murder. On Thursday, he took his first shot at parole, and failed.“We are not satisfied that his release to parole is sufficient for his re-integration and the protection of the public,” a serious offenders report, quoted by the State Parole Authority, reads.Huxley’s family held a press conference outside the authority in Parramatta on Thursday, expressing their relief that Farmer would remain behind bars.“Nothing can undo what my sister has endured nor the lasting impact this crime continues to have on our family,” Huxley’s sister, Simone, said on Thursday.Lauren Huxley’s sister, Simone, and parents Christine and Patrick Huxley celebrate outside the NSW Parole Authority on Thursday.Steven Siewert“We are extremely grateful that the parole [authority] took him to our considerations and how much the ongoing impact still has on our family and my sister in particular 20 years on.”Simone said her sister has been “thriving” over the decades, but she has lived fearing Farmer’s potential release. She was deeply relieved, Simone said, hearing he had failed.Farmer has not participated in the Violent Offenders Therapeutic Program, and instead had one-on-one sessions with a prison psychologist.“Given the horrific nature of his violent offence and his ongoing denial, completion of the [sessions] in lieu of the VOTP is critical,” the report states.Lauren Huxley and her sister Simone the day before her attacker was sentenced in 2008.Peter MorrisHuxley’s parents, Christine and Pat, were told she would likely die of her injuries.They stood beside Simone on Thursday and said their daughter was a “miracle”.“We’re just so treasured that she’s still here, and she’s doing so well,” Christine said.Christine said she would be popping a bottle of champagne to celebrate the news.Robert Farmer will remain behind bars for his crimes against Lauren Huxley.10 NewsFarmer he has been referred to, but not yet accepted into, the Corrective Services NSW Reintegration Intensive Support Program to help him re-enter society.His sentence will end on January 31, 2031. At that point, barring any other changes, he will be released into society.“The authority recognises the profound and enduring harm caused to Lauren and her family by this offending. We admire their courage and resilience, and our thoughts remain with them,” a statement by the parole authority reads.“In all decisions, the protection of the community, including the safety and wellbeing of victims and their families remains our priority.”Following Thursday’s decision, Farmer has the right to apply for a review.If a review application is not made, or is refused, the Authority’s decision to refuse parole is confirmed and he will be reconsidered next year, ahead of his anniversary date.If you need help contact Lifeline 13 11 14; beyondblue 1300 22 4636Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.From our partners