Country Doctor’s ‘Shocking’ Indecent Assault Charges Dropped Due to Lack of Evidence, Leaving Community Reeling
- Charges of unlawful and indecent assault against Geraldton obstetrician John George Mateljan have been discontinued due to a lack of evidence.
- The 74-year-old doctor had vehemently denied the allegations and was awarded $45,000 in court costs.
- Dr Mateljan remains subject to restrictions set by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, including a ban on direct contact with female, girl, or non-binary patients.
- The case has raised concerns about the handling of allegations against medical professionals and the impact on regional communities.
The sudden and unexpected decision to drop charges against a country doctor accused of indecently assaulting patients and colleagues has sent shockwaves through the small Western Australian community of Geraldton.
John George Mateljan, a 74-year-old obstetrician, had been facing allegations of unlawful and indecent assault, which he vehemently denied. However, on the eve of his trial, prosecutors announced that there was no reasonable prospect of conviction, and the charges were discontinued.
The Geraldton Magistrates Court heard that the lack of evidence made it impossible to proceed with the case, leaving many in the community stunned and searching for answers.
Dr Mateljan’s accusers, who had bravely come forward to share their stories, were left feeling disappointed and frustrated by the outcome.
The doctor’s supporters, on the other hand, were relieved that his name had been cleared, but the restrictions imposed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (APHRA) remain a concern.
The case against Dr Mateljan began in August 2025, when detectives charged him with indecently assaulting three women during medical consultations or while working alongside them in hospital settings.
The allegations sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the handling of complaints against medical professionals in regional areas. As the case progressed, Dr Mateljan maintained his innocence, telling the ABC that he “vehemently” denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The decision to drop the charges has significant implications for the community, which had been eagerly awaiting justice.
Security analysts say that the case highlights the challenges of investigating and prosecuting allegations of indecent assault, particularly in regional areas where resources may be limited.
“This case is a stark reminder of the difficulties faced by law enforcement agencies in gathering evidence and building a strong case against alleged perpetrators,” said one expert.
Analysis: What This Means for Australia
The discontinuation of charges against Dr Mateljan has sparked concerns about the effectiveness of the justice system in dealing with allegations of indecent assault. The case raises questions about the support provided to victims and the need for greater resources to be allocated to investigating and prosecuting such allegations.
Law enforcement insiders warn that the case may deter others from coming forward, fearing that their allegations will not be taken seriously or that they will not receive the justice they deserve.
The restrictions imposed by APHRA on Dr Mateljan’s practice will remain in place unless removed by the board or successfully appealed. Industry observers believe that this decision will have far-reaching implications for the medical profession, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability.
“The restrictions imposed on Dr Mateljan’s practice are a clear indication that the medical profession is taking allegations of indecent assault seriously,” said one expert. “However, more needs to be done to support victims and ensure that those who have been accused are held accountable.”
