The Victorian Health Complaints Commissioner issues the following Public Health Warning Statement pursuant to section 84 of the Health Complaints Act 2016.

On 20 October 2021 my office commenced an investigation into Sean Connell trading as ‘Energy Wellness’. This decision to investigate was made following information that had been received by my office alleging that Mr Connell was claiming that he could cure Motor Neuron Disease and Cancer and was promoting misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccinations.

I have now completed the investigation. My findings are that Mr Connell contravened the Code of Conduct set out in Schedule 2 of the Health Complaints Act 2016, and that it is necessary to publish this warning statement as I reasonably believe that a person has suffered, or is likely to suffer, a detriment as a result of the provision of the health service by the provider and I reasonably believe that is it necessary to publish the statement to avoid a serious risk to the life, health, safety or welfare of a person or the public.

In addition to this warning statement, I have also issued a Prohibition Order against Mr Connell, a copy of which can be accessed here.

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.

Adjunct Professor Bernice Redly

Health Complaints Commissioner

13 February 2023