In a dramatic turn of events, Dr Sharmila Chandran, the president-elect of Australia’s Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP), has been suspended from her position by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). The suspension, effective until 20 September, comes amid allegations that she violated a directive from SafeWork NSW regarding workplace health and safety protocols. This development not only raises concerns about governance within one of the country’s oldest medical institutions but also leaves it in a precarious leadership situation.
Allegations of Breach of Safety Protocols
The ACNC’s suspension follows a concerning report from SafeWork NSW, which indicated that Dr Chandran had allegedly disregarded a prohibition notice that forbade her from communicating with RACP staff. This breach was deemed to pose “immediate and serious risks” to the psychological well-being of employees. The ACNC confirmed that despite being advised on her obligations, Chandran continued to engage with staff, which directly contravened safety directives aimed at protecting them.
The RACP, which represents over 32,000 medical professionals across 33 specialties, has been embroiled in internal strife. Tensions culminated in a chaotic extraordinary general meeting last month, prompting police intervention. The board’s fractious dynamics have drawn criticism from members, who have characterised the situation as a “royal mess” and a “trainwreck.”
A Turbulent Leadership Transition
Dr Chandran was poised to assume the presidency after an annual general meeting scheduled for 29 May, following a two-year tenure as president-elect. However, her suspension leaves the college in a leadership vacuum. The outgoing president, Professor Jennifer Martin, was ousted from her role five weeks early in a controversial vote led by Chandran, during which her husband was reported to have called the police.
The governance issues have not only raised questions about the college’s operational integrity but have also led to previous attempts by board members to dissolve the board altogether. Earlier this year, SafeWork NSW issued a notice indicating that the RACP had failed to properly manage risks associated with harmful behaviours within board operations.
Interim Leadership and Future Implications
In light of the suspension, the ACNC has appointed Adjunct Professor Susan Pascoe as the interim chair of the board. Pascoe, who previously served as Australia’s inaugural charities commissioner, is expected to navigate the college through this turbulent period. The board has expressed its commitment to working closely with the ACNC to ensure compliance with governance standards and to foster a safe workplace environment for its employees.
The ongoing regulatory scrutiny underscores the seriousness of the college’s situation. If the ACNC finds that the RACP cannot meet its governance obligations by the end of the suspension, further regulatory actions could be taken, including extending the suspension or removing Chandran from her position permanently.
Why it Matters
This unfolding saga at the RACP highlights critical issues surrounding governance, workplace safety, and the broader implications for medical institutions in Australia. As the college grapples with internal conflicts and regulatory oversight, the integrity of its leadership will be pivotal in shaping the future of medical training and standards across Australia and New Zealand. The outcomes of this crisis could serve as a cautionary tale for other organisations about the necessity of adhering to governance protocols and fostering a respectful, safe workplace culture.
