Sarah Courtney,Minister for Health
As Minister for Health, I'm deeply concerned by the allegations pertaining to a deceased former nurse at the Launceston General Hospital.
The individual referred to in the media was subject to an investigation by Tasmania Police, and I have been assured the Tasmanian Health Service took immediate action following the suspension of this individual's registration to work with Vulnerable People. The THS quickly suspended the worker from attending the hospital and cut off access to systems.
The THS has mechanisms and procedures in place should allegations be made against a member of staff, which include referral to and cooperation with Tasmania Police should that be required, as well as to AHPRA.
I have asked the Secretary of the Department of Health to examine the THS's policies and processes relating to these issues, as well as with respect to this particular case.
The Secretary and I take these matters extremely seriously.
Allegations of this nature can have wide-reaching impacts - not just on those directly involved but our broader community.
We encourage any Tasmanians affected to access support** – whether that is one of our patients, or their families or loved ones.
The Secretary is communicating with staff at the LGH to provide avenues to receive support as well as a mechanism for current and former staff to be able to come forward and provide information about this matter, and anyone in our community who has allegations of sexual assault is encouraged to contact Tasmania Police.
**Available support services include:
- 1800 RESPECT
- Laurel House (03) 6334 2740 (Launceston), (03) 6431 9711 (Burnie and Devonport)
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Sexual Assault Support Service (SASS) on 1800 697 877
- Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277
