Barry, I think you captured the story quite well in your lines. My only criticism would be to change the number of syllables in the first line of the last verse. Perhaps, "Where lies the fault? Tell me, who takes the blame?". Just a thought. This is certainly a story that needs telling. I think it is great that you have chosen it.

Now that I look again, the Botany Bay line seems a little short too. Maybe "It's like Botany Bay all over again." -- All of this is pure conjecture on my part as I cannot hear how the words might fit the tune you may have in mind.