Melbourne, Australia – A wave of allegations involving unnecessary surgeries performed on women by a prominent gynecologist has prompted investigations by both Victoria Police and the state’s healthcare watchdog. Simultaneously, the nation is awaiting a decision regarding the potential removal of Prince Andrew from the line of royal succession, and a royal commission into the Bondi tragedy is set to begin today. The unfolding cases highlight a period of intense scrutiny within both public institutions and the medical community.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler expressed his dismay upon learning of the allegations against Dr. Simon Gordon, a former surgeon at Epworth Private Hospital. Butler described the news as “sickening” in a video posted on X, and commended the bravery of both the doctors who came forward and, crucially, the women who shared their deeply distressing experiences.
Even though I knew some of what was coming, it still sickened me to the stomach. I wish to thank the doctors who bravely spoke out about one of their colleagues. They shouldn’t feel scared for speaking out about poor quality of care. But most of all, we should all thank the brave young women…
— Mark Butler (@MarkButlerMP) February 24, 2026
Endometriosis Surgeries Under Scrutiny
The allegations center around Dr. Gordon’s practice of performing laparoscopic surgeries for endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. A seven-month investigation by Four Corners revealed that Dr. Gordon repeatedly removed tissue and organs from young women diagnosed with “severe” endometriosis, despite pathology reports often showing little to no evidence of the disease. Gynaecologists who reviewed patient records and pathology reports have stated that many of the surgeries were, in their view, unnecessary and potentially harmful, leading to pain and compromised fertility.
Over 100 women have come forward claiming they had reproductive tissue, and in some cases organs, removed by Dr. Gordon at The Epworth Hospital, despite limited evidence of endometriosis, according to a report by 9News. One former patient, Steph, told 9News she underwent a hysterectomy only to later discover it was not needed. “I don’t really have the words for it to be honest, it’s been incredibly stressful,” she said.
Dr. Gordon retired from practice late last year and surrendered his medical registration last month, but has denied any wrongdoing. The Epworth Hospital reported Dr. Gordon to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) after concerns were raised by senior management in October 2025. The hospital has also commissioned an external review into its clinical governance.
Investigations and Calls for Justice
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has referred the matter to Victoria Police and the state’s healthcare watchdog, stating, “Performing unnecessary surgeries is a crime. That is why it needs to be investigated by Victoria Police.” She emphasized the need to provide answers to the women affected and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Federal Health Minister Butler has also written to his Victorian counterpart requesting a Safer Care Victoria inquiry into the management of Dr. Gordon by Epworth, the state’s largest private hospital. Medicare is also investigating Dr. Gordon’s billing practices.
Royal Commission to Examine Bondi Tragedy
In a separate but equally significant development, a royal commission will commence today to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic events at Bondi Junction Westfield shopping centre. The commission will examine the actions of security personnel, police response times, and the mental health of the perpetrator, Brenton Tarrant, in an effort to understand how the attack unfolded and to identify measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The commission’s findings are expected to have a significant impact on security protocols at public venues across the country.
Prince Andrew and the Line of Succession
Adding to the complex political landscape, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is reportedly considering removing Prince Andrew from the line of royal succession. This move comes amid continued scrutiny of Prince Andrew’s association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and ongoing public calls for his removal from royal duties. While Buckingham Palace has not officially commented on the matter, sources indicate that the Prime Minister is prepared to capture action if necessary to protect the reputation of the monarchy. The decision is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The convergence of these three significant events – the medical scandal, the Bondi tragedy, and the royal succession debate – underscores a period of profound change and accountability within Australian society. The investigations and inquiries underway are expected to yield important lessons and reforms in the months ahead.
The next update regarding the Dr. Gordon investigation is expected from Victoria Police as they continue their inquiries. The royal commission into the Bondi tragedy will begin hearings today, with the first witnesses scheduled to testify. Further details regarding the Prime Minister’s decision on Prince Andrew’s position in the line of succession are anticipated in the coming weeks.
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