The Victorian Health Complaints Commissioner, Adjunct Professor Bernice Redley has today issued a General Health Service Warning Statement against Mr Michael Allwood, following an investigation into a complaint received from the public.

The Public Health Service Warning states that on 10 August 2022, the Commissioner commenced an investigation into Mr Allwood. The decision to investigate was made based on information alleging that Mr Allwood sexually assaulted and raped two (2) 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 (6) female clients. In total, Mr Allwood has been charged with sexual offences against eight (8) clients.

The Commissioner reasonably believes 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 this warning statement to avoid an imminent and serious risk to the life, health safety or welfare of the public.”

Most general health service providers comply with their obligations under the Code of Conduct and do the right thing. However, the actions of those providers who do not, such as Mr Allwood, can result in serious harm to the public. “That is why 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.”

Any person considering any treatment should ask providers about:

• their qualifications and experience
• the risks involved
• what insurance they have if something does go wrong

Putting the General Health Service Warning Statement in place, 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.

You can access our media release below.