General News
24 November, 2022
Warning issued against Maryborough massage therapist
A General Health Service Warning Statement has been issued against Maryborough massage therapist Michael Allwood, who was charged with the alleged sexual assault and/or rape of eight clients earlier this year. The warning was issued on Thursday by...
A General Health Service Warning Statement has been issued against Maryborough massage therapist Michael Allwood, who was charged with the alleged sexual assault and/or rape of eight clients earlier this year.
The warning was issued on Thursday by the Victorian Health Complaints Commissioner (HCC) Adjunct Professor Bernice Redley following an investigation into a complaint received from the public.
According to the Public Health Service Warning, on August 10 this year the commissioner commenced an investigation into Mr Allwood based on information alleging Mr Allwood sexually assaulted and raped two female clients during the provision of massage services at his home.
Subsequently, the HCC received information that Mr Allwood was charged with sexual assault and/or rape against a further six female clients.
In total, Mr Allwood has been charged with sexual offences against eight clients.
In a statement from the HCC, the commissioner stated she reasonably believed that Mr Allwood may have contravened the Code of Conduct as set out in Schedule 2 of the Health
Complaints Act 2016, and that it is necessary to publish the warning to avoid an “imminent and serious risk to the life, health safety or welfare of the public”.
Professor Redley said while most general health service providers comply with their obligations under the Code of Conduct, the actions of providers who do not — such as Mr Allwood — can result in serious harm to the public.
“...It is important for any person considering engaging with providers such as Mr Allwood to give great consideration as to what can go wrong and what they have a right to expect from their health service provider, so that they can make fully informed decisions,” Professor Redley said.
“This should serve as a timely reminder to all general health service providers who do not observe the Code of Conduct that my office will investigate those providers who pose a serious risk to the public and take action against them.”
Members of the public who have any concerns about this matter, or any other health services, are urged to contact the Health Complaints Commissioner by calling 1300 582 113 or by completing an online complaint at hcc.vic.gov.au/make-complaint.