'Mason should never have gone home': Toddler's death sparks twin investigations in Queensland

The mother of a baby severely injured four months before he was found dead in her Queensland home says he should never have been released from hospital.

Anne Marie Lee’s comments to 7 News come as police continue to investigate the murder of her baby Mason, who had injuries ‘from head to toe’.

It’s prompted a response from the state’s political leaders with two separate investigations under way.

“The death of Mason Lee is an absolute tragedy,” Queensland child safety minister Shannon Fentiman said.

“And like most Queenslanders today I am absolutely shocked and appalled by the reports that we’ve seen. “

Those reports, independently confirmed by 7 News, confirm Mason Lee suffered horrific injuries.

Some were sustained at his Caboolture home, a short distance away and four months before he was found dead in his mother’s boyfriend’s house.

After suffering a broken leg, severe nappy rash and a ruptured bowel, Mason was admitted to hospital – a move which alerted child safety officers.

He was released back home with the officers, a move his mother now disagrees with.

“Mason should never have been released. Mason should have been kept in hospital,” she said.

The revelation prompted questions over whether reported cases of child abuse are being followed up.

“We don’t know exactly how many children there are,” Queensland opposition leader Tim Nicholls said.

“Either they’re not being reported, they’re not being seen in time.

“There is another Mason out there today.”

The opposition and advocate groups are calling for bipartisanship on the matter, saying the death of a toddler should be above politics.

The government says it is happy to work with the opposition to keep children safe.