Melbourne woman allegedly murdered by her partner

Nikkita Azzopardi, a 35-year-old woman from Melbourne, was found dead days after her partner, Joel Micallef, allegedly beat her to death. On October 26, 2024, Azzopardi expressed her worries about Micallef to his relatives shortly before the incident. Micallef, 33, had been known to have mental health issues during their two-year relationship. Azzopardi's family discovered her body two days later when they went to check on her after she did not attend a family gathering. They found Micallef with her body in their home in South Morang, Melbourne. Micallef has been charged with murder and pleaded not guilty in previous court hearings. On March 21, 2025, Micallef appeared in the Supreme Court of Victoria. His lawyers argued for a mental impairment defense. Azzopardi's family expressed their grief outside the court and demanded a jury trial, believing it's essential to fully investigate her death. The family had been concerned for Azzopardi’s safety, as she had previously confided in them about issues in her relationship. They were shocked and heartbroken by the events that unfolded. Micallef is expected to undergo assessments by multiple psychiatrists to support his defense strategy.