John George Mateljan: Detectives charge GP with indecent assault of three patients from 2013 to 2024

Geraldton detectives have charged a 73-year-old doctor over a series of alleged indecent assaults said to have occurred at two Mid West medical facilities. Police allege John George Mateljan assaulted three women between 2013 and 2024 during medical consultations or while working alongside them in hospital settings as a medical practitioner in the Mid West. Dr Mateljan appeared in Geraldton Magistrates Court on August 7 when he pleaded not guilty to three counts of unlawful and indecent assault and is due to next appear on November 17. He has been listed as a general practitioner, paediatrician, obstetrician, anaesthetist and general surgeon at St John of God Geraldton Hospital. He also works as a GP out of the Victoria District Medical Centre and has been registered as a medical practitioner with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency since 1982. There are currently no conditions or undertakings on his registration. It is understood Dr Mateljan is still working out of the Victoria District Medical Centre as a GP. Co-principal at the centre, Dr Kim Pedlow, said Dr Mateljan had rented a room at the practice for 15 years. “Prior to that I’ve worked with him in both hospitals, theatre and emergency department. He is a widely trusted and respected colleague,” Dr Pedlow said. A SJOG Health Care spokesperson said: “Dr Mateljan does not practice at St John of God hospitals. We cannot make any further comment as the matter is before the courts.” An AHPRA spokesperson said all practitioners who were charged with an offence punishable by 12 months imprisonment or more, or were convicted or found guilty of an offence punishable by imprisonment in Australia must inform the national board within seven days. “AHPRA may review a practitioner’s practice if their criminal history raises concerns about their fitness to practise,” the spokesperson said. “National boards or tribunals may impose conditions on registration, suspend registration, or cancel registration in relation to charges or convictions for serious offences.” Detectives are continuing their investigation and have urged anyone who believes they may have experienced similar conduct to contact Geraldton police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Reports can be made anonymously. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, contact police on 131 444 or make an anonymous report via the Safe2Say platform.