A year in care. A lifetime of impact. Epworth HealthCare - Annual Review 2024-25
A message from our Board President and Group Chief Executive
At Epworth, excellence in care is not a headline, it’s the standard our patients, doctors and teams expect every day. In FY25, we’ve taken important steps to protect and strengthen that standard, while ensuring we can continue to meet the needs of Victorians in a changing healthcare landscape.
This year was about building with intent. We improved our financial position and lifted operational performance, creating the resilience required to keep investing in our people, our hospitals, and better patient experiences. That discipline matters because it gives Epworth the capacity to grow, innovate and reinvest every surplus back into care.
Just as importantly, FY25 reinforced something we know to be true: Epworth’s future is shaped through partnership. The progress we make for patients depends on the combined efforts of our people, our doctors, our supporters and donors, our government partners, and the wider community we serve. Together, we are designing new models of care, strengthening quality and safety, advancing research, and ensuring Epworth remains a place where great clinicians want to practise and great teams want to work.
We also stayed focused on the foundations that enable great care at scale. We continued to modernise systems and infrastructure, prioritising the remediation of core platforms while accelerating digital integration to support more seamless, data-enabled care. We invested in education and research through initiatives like the Brookes Academy, because a great place to work and practise depends on learning, leadership and opportunity.
Across all of this, our direction remains clear: to deliver outstanding, patient-centred care today, while responsibly expanding where and how care happens, through stronger partnerships, smarter technology and sustainable growth beyond the hospital walls.
We know our best work comes from paying close attention to what our people and patients are telling us, and having the discipline to respond, so that Epworth continues to set the standard for exceptional, safe patient care and remains a place where our people are supported to flourish.
Thank you to our people, our doctors, our donors and supporters and our community for the commitment and trust you place in Epworth. Your contribution is what makes progress possible. We invite you to reflect on this year’s highlights with pride in what we’ve achieved together, and confidence in the future we are building.
Wendy Thorpe
President, Epworth Board
Professor Andrew Stripp
Group Chief Executive
Our impact in numbers
Patient-centred care
At Epworth, care is founded on more than clinical expertise. It is shaped by a culture where patients are at the heart of every decision, and empathy and excellence go hand-in-hand to create meaningful experiences.
95% of Epworth patients report a positive experience, with 83% rating the overall quality of treatment and care as ‘very good’ and 12% as ‘good’.
These results come from independent surveys of randomly selected patients invited to share their experience upon discharge.
More options for personalised, connected care
We continue to meet evolving patient needs by introducing programs and health services that make a meaningful difference.
IN-FIRST rapid seizure assessments
The inpatient IN-FIRST pathway at Epworth Eastern provides a rapid assessment service for people experiencing their first seizure.
IN-FIRST enables patients to see specialists and undergo all essential tests, including an Electroencephalogram (EEG), within their 24-48 hour admission.
Enhancing maternity care
A new Maternity Hub and Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Clinic at Epworth Freemasons deliver integrated care for pregnancy and recovery.
From birth preparation to postnatal rehabilitation, these services enable us to provide expert guidance and physical support at all stages of pregnancy and beyond.
CBT therapy for insomnia
Insomnia can occur in people living with chronic pain.
The Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) program was piloted at Epworth Geelong, to supplement the pain management program. CBT is also available at Epworth Hawthorn and Epworth Camberwell.
Expanding access to treatment
We continually grow and adapt to meet the changing needs of our community.
A new space for cardiac rehabilitation
Epworth Camberwell has opened a new purpose-built space to expand its cardiac rehabilitation program.
This ensures we can meet growing demand to support people in recovery from heart procedures and cardiac events or managing chronic heart disease.
Volunteer transport in Geelong
Epworth Geelong added two new cars to its volunteer transport program, with thanks to the Epworth Medical Foundation.
This service helps around 30 patients each week travel to and from their dialysis, oncology and rehabilitation appointments.
25 years of home services
Epworth at Home has provided hospital-quality care in the comfort of home for 25 years.
This year, home services expanded to include acute care, rehabilitation and chemotherapy.
They recognise me for one reason or another … These people deal with stacks of patients and to remember little old me is quite a thing.
Inclusive care
We foster a culture where everyone feels welcome, knowing that diversity sparks innovation and strengthens patient connections.
Inclusive systems
We completed major upgrades to patient administration systems to ensure we recognise the diverse identities, supporting a more inclusive experience for all.
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP): Achievements, challenges and learnings
The first year of our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan reflects our strong commitment to building respectful relationships and improving health outcomes for First Nations peoples.
Key achievements included the rollout of cultural awareness training, the establishment of partnerships with First Nations health organisations, and the creation of employment pathways that support First Nations employees.
Highlights include awarding of two $10,000 scholarships through the Brookes Academy, supporting the next generation of First Nations clinicians and the development of a Cultural Care Plan Guide, designed to equip our people with practical tools to deliver culturally respectful and responsive care to First Nations patients.
Through these initiatives, valuable insights have emerged. Co-designing initiatives with First Nations stakeholders proves essential for success, and tailoring approaches to local community contexts enhances relevance and impact.
Leadership plays a crucial role in embedding RAP goals into organisational culture, and small actions, like regular Acknowledgements of Country, can have a powerful effect. Ultimately, the first year reinforces that reconciliation is a continuous journey, requiring reflection, adaptability, and genuine commitment.
Artwork by Dixon Patten (Yorta/ Gunnai) designed for Epworth HealthCare.
Quality and sustainability
Full accreditation achieved
In July 2024, Epworth achieved full accreditation from the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS) following a Short Notice Accreditation Assessment.
We successfully met all 149 National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards, as well as the National Clinical Trials Governance Framework.
Delivering on our environmental commitment
In the 2024-25 financial year, greenhouse gas emissions fell by 2% to 42,213 tonnes, bringing our total reduction to 24.7% since 2018. Energy use also dropped by more than 2%, and emissions intensity reached 76.7 kg CO₂ per patient bed day, well below our target of 90.65 kg CO₂/PBD.
Beyond emissions, we also introduced new waste management programs including blister pack recycling (24,000 packs collected), compression sleeve reprocessing (270 kg diverted), and food waste collection (24,451 kg dehydrated onsite and converted into renewable energy - enough to power 3,913 Victorian homes).
These initiatives reflect our commitment to delivering sustainable healthcare and protecting the environment for future generations.
Our people
Across Epworth, our people deliver care that is personal, purposeful and deeply human, tailored to each patient’s needs. They shape every patient experience and drive progress across our hospitals.
We recognise their dedication and the difference they make for our community, across all roles and in all areas.
The patient outcomes that we get, because of all their [team] work… is what keeps you coming to work.
Engagement survey results
Our employee engagement survey results remained steady, reflecting a consistently strong level of engagement across the organisation.
Supporting our Nurses and Midwives
A new Enterprise Agreement for Epworth Nurses and Midwives came into effect on 23 June, developed with their feedback.
It recognises the expertise and vital role of our Nurses and Midwives in delivering exceptional patient care.
Doctor App streamlining care
The Epworth Doctor App was redesigned for better usability, adding features like diagnostic result viewing and digitised discharge summaries.
To date, 916 doctors have downloaded the app, helping streamline care across our hospitals.
Community voices shaping care
Our 48 consumer advisors volunteer their time to help us deliver safer, more patient-centred services. They contribute by:
- participating in governance and research committees to bring the patient perspective into decision‑making
- testing digital tools like the patient admission portal to improve usability
- reviewing patient information for clarity and accessibility
- enhancing hospital wayfinding to make navigation easier for patients and families
- supporting nursing orientation.
Their input helps us design care that truly reflects patient needs. We sincerely thank all our consumer advisors, and all our volunteers, for the difference they make.
Innovative care
We are driven by a commitment to our community; to set new standards and deliver the best in modern healthcare.
First Victorian hospital to implant the AVEIR pacemaker
Epworth Eastern became the first hospital in Victoria to implant the lead-free, dual chamber AVEIR pacemaker.
Three times smaller than a standard AAA battery, this technology eliminates wires and visible scarring, improving recovery, reducing infection risk and enhancing mobility for cardiac patients.
Local anaesthetic for laryngeal procedures
Epworth Hawthorn is the first Victorian private hospital to provide local anaesthetic for laryngeal procedures transforming care for voice, airway and swallowing issues.
It’s also the first clinic in Australia where speech pathologists assist directly during procedures.
Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression
Epworth Clinic introduced Esketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
Several Epworth psychiatrists are trained to administer Esketamine, delivered via nasal spray under strict medical supervision.
Pioneering precision in robotic surgery
Epworth has a proud history of pioneering robotic surgery. We introduced the first surgical robot to the Asia Pacific region at Epworth Richmond in 2003.
Today we continue to strengthen our position as a leader in advanced surgical care with around 20 robotic systems in commission across our hospitals, including 5 new surgical robots received in FY25.
Robotic technology delivers exceptional precision and control, enabling minimally invasive procedures that can reduce pain, shorten recovery times and improve patient outcomes across multiple specialties.
Early in 2025, we also reached a significant milestone: completing more than 6,500 robotic orthopaedic procedures, using MAKO technology, including over 5,700 hip and knee replacements.
Across Melbourne and Geelong, the delivery of new robots in FY25 has expanded our capabilities:
- Epworth Richmond became the first hospital in Victoria to operate 3 Da Vinci robots after receiving a new Xi system in March. The hospital also welcomed its third MAKO.
- Epworth Geelong introduced the first VELYS robot at Epworth for precision knee replacements.
- Epworth Eastern added a second MAKO robot to support orthopaedic surgery and performed the hospital’s first robotic thoracic surgery for complex chest procedures.
- Epworth Freemasons received a Da Vinci Xi to support advanced cancer surgeries, further increasing capacity for minimally invasive treatment.
These investments would not be possible without the generous support of our donor community.
Investing in education and research
At Epworth, innovation is driven by our unwavering commitment to research and education. This dedication ensures our people have the knowledge and tools to deliver exceptional care, supported by the Epworth Medical Foundation and a community of donors who share our vision for better care and health outcomes.
Scholarships and research grants driving innovation in patient care.
The 2025 Epworth Scholarship Program saw 216 employees share in more than $1.3 million to fund further education, conference attendance and visits to leading hospitals around the world. This program has grown significantly since its inception in 2010, when just six scholarships worth $19,000 were awarded.
In addition, the annual Mackenzie Dinner saw 74 Epworth doctors and staff receive grants valued at an extraordinary $1.77 million. These grants will drive innovation and research across critical areas of care, including rehabilitation, mental health, cardiac care, cancer, women’s health, neurology and intensive care.
The Brookes Academy
The Brookes Academy empowers nurses and midwives to learn and thrive.
Supported by donors and the Epworth Medical Foundation, it has delivered free programs to 1,200 Epworth employees since inception.
In FY25, Epworth secured $28 million in federal funding to build a new state-of-the-art home for the Academy, with construction starting in November 2025.
Education driving excellence
Leadership programs, graduate pathways and ongoing learning ensure our workforce is prepared to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities.
Building strong leaders
The Elevate leadership program equips our leaders with the skills to reflect on and refine leadership practices in the areas of leading self, leading others and driving excellence.
Since inception, 109 leaders have completed the two-month blended program of in-person workshops, self-paced learning and virtual practice sessions.
Graduates build careers with Epworth
206 aspiring nurses completed the Epworth Graduate Support Program in FY25.
We’re proud that 95% of nursing graduates chose to continue their careers at Epworth on completion of their program.
Helping Junior doctors advance their careers
Fifty junior doctors undertook 6-12 months of advanced training at Epworth, completing specialist college requirements that form a critical pathway toward achieving specialist registration and advancing their professional medical careers.
Advancing care through research
We have 465 credentialled researchers, including 165 principal investigators and 37 research nurses and coordinators, collaborating across a broad network:
15 other hospitals
13 commercial sponsors
12 universities
12 research institutes
11 collaborative groups
As of 30 June, 435 research studies were in progress (up from 407 the previous year), including:
255 investigator-initiated studies
76 commercially sponsored studies
104 collaborative group studies
Research spans a broad range of specialties with current active studies in the following areas: |
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| Cancer services | 134 |
| Rehabilitation, mental health and chronic pain | 54 |
| General surgery and gastroenterology | 39 |
| Critical care | 26 |
| UroRenal and vascular | 31 |
| Musculoskeletal | 22 |
| Women’s and children’s health | 49 |
| Internal medicine | 29 |
| Cardiac sciences | 17 |
| Centre for Clinical Nursing Research | 11 |
| Corporate/Clinical Services | 17 |
Leading three clinical trials in cancer treatment
Epworth is leading the Australian arms of three major clinical trials in cancer treatment.
These include a global Phase 1 CAR-T cell therapy for blood cancers, the NeoFOL-R trial for operable pancreatic cancer (pictured), and a world-first faecal microbiota transplant trial for inoperable pancreatic cancer.
Raising Endometriosis Awareness
The Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre held 6 free ‘Know Endo’ webinars and support groups for the community, featuring medical and allied health experts sharing approaches to diagnosing and managing endometriosis. A dedicated GP education event further supported best practice.
The Centre also released the second edition Endometriosis Patient Guide, endorsed by Endometriosis Australia.
Epworth trials new cancer surgery scanner
Epworth urologists led Australia’s first use of advanced scanning during prostate cancer surgery, visualising the entire tumour, supporting the precise removal of cancerous tissue while protecting surrounding nerves.
The new Histolog scanning technology helps to remove as much of the prostate as needed while preserving nerves that support quality of life.
Centres of Excellence
The Epworth centres of excellence are built on three pillars: leading research, delivering clinical excellence and improving the patient experience.
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Epworth Centre for Immunotherapies and Snowdome Laboratories (ECISL)
Focused on improving outcomes for people with blood cancer, ECISL remains the only private hospital in Australia offering CAR-T cell therapy and is the highest recruiting site nationally for an allogeneic CAR-T clinical trial.
Highlights:
- First in Australia to open second and third CAR-T trials, expanding treatment to T-cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
- 23 active clinical trials, including seven new trials.
- 150 therapeutic apheresis procedures and 138 extracorporeal photopheresis procedures.
- Two investigator-initiated cell therapy studies and one in development.
- MOCI Biobank: >15,000 specimens and >800 patients consented.
- Participation in national registries for myeloma and lymphoma.
Learn more about Epworth Centre for Immunotherapies and Snowdome Laboratories
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Jreissati Pancreatic Centre (JPC) at Epworth
Since 2021, JPCE has managed over 800 referrals and delivered more than 10,750 specialist nurse and dietitian visits.
Highlights:
- Subsidised molecular testing for 188 patients and facilitated access to innovative technologies including NanoKnife and SpyGlass and other innovative technologies.
- 42 research studies since it began, including three national studies such as APRISE, a 10-year screening program for 1,000 high-risk individuals which has already recruited over a third of participants.
- Achieving a pathological complete response in the ACCENT clinical trial.
- Preparing to open a dedicated facility at 19 Erin Street, providing patients with a safe, private and welcoming space outside of the hospital setting.
- Subsidised travel and accommodation for rural patients and the Healing Holidays Program, a funded weekend getaway for patients and their loved ones.
Learn more about Jreissati Pancreatic Centre (JPC) at Epworth
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Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre at Epworth (JAECE)
With hospitalisations for endometriosis doubling among young women, JAECE is driving research for better diagnosis and care.
Highlights:
- 21 active research projects and nine in development.
- Successful biobank launch with around 200 patients donating to the project.
- 14 published papers since 2023.
- Research includes PET imaging for the diagnosis and surveillance and examining obstetric outcomes in patients with pre-pregnancy endometriosis.
Learn more about Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre at Epworth (JAECE)
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E.J. Whitten Prostate Cancer Research Centre at Epworth
The E.J. Whitten Prostate Cancer Research Centre at Epworth is dedicated to improving outcomes for men with prostate cancer through world-first trials.
Highlights:
- EMPOWER study simplifying radiology reports for patients to improve communication and education.
- CONFIRM study recruited 112 patients to assess the diagnostic utility of PSMA PET/CT in men with newly diagnosed low-grade prostate cancer with high-risk features.
- Ongoing recruitment to major trials including PRIMORDIUM, VAPEUR, TALAPRO-3 and ARASTEP.
Learn more about E.J. Whitten Prostate Cancer Research Centre at Epworth
About us
Epworth HealthCare is Victoria’s largest not-for-profit private hospital group, renowned for excellence in diagnosis, treatment, care and rehabilitation at convenient locations across Melbourne and Geelong.
Our locations
Epworth Richmond is a 705-bed acute medical, surgical and rehabilitation hospital. It has an emergency department, 26-bed ICU and 31-theatre perioperative department. Specialties include cardiac, neurosciences, orthopaedics, cancer, ear, nose and throat (ENT), general medicine and surgery. Epworth Richmond offers specialist sleep studies and a specialised paediatric ward.
Rehabilitation located in the Bethesda wing delivers inpatient neurological, orthopaedic, cardiac and reconditioning rehabilitation, and the internationally recognised Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) rehabilitation service. Continuing care is supported through extensive outpatient rehabilitation programs and the specialised Community Integration Team (CIT) helps people safely transition to life at home and in the community after brain injury.
Epworth Eastern is a 326-bed hospital in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, recently finalised an extensive redevelopment, which included a 14-storey tower. This transformation introduced numerous healthcare enhancements, such as increased bed capacity, an expanded ICU, advanced clinical facilities, state-of-the-art operating theatres and a cutting-edge hybrid theatre.
Additionally, we now offer a dedicated endoscopy suite, an oncology Wellness Zone with a fully equipped gym, new doctor consultation suites and a dedicated General Medical Unit. These spaces are all designed to provide our community with comprehensive and advanced healthcare services.
Epworth Eastern provides specialty cardiology and cardiothoracic services as well as orthopaedic care with expertise in knee, hip and upper and lower limbs, comprehensive oncology services and a nine-chair renal dialysis unit. Vascular, urology and plastic and reconstructive surgery services are also available.
Epworth Freemasons operates across three locations in East Melbourne (Albert Street, Victoria Parade and Jolimont Road), and comprises 325 beds.
Epworth Freemasons has a 20-chair day oncology unit, advanced education and simulation centre, 20 operating theatres and an eight-bed intensive care unit (ICU). The renovated maternity unit has 34 postnatal suites, nine delivery suites, 10-cot special care nursery and a purpose-built space for antenatal and postnatal outpatient support services.
With radiotherapy and medical imaging services onsite, including PET-CT scanning, Epworth Freemasons delivers comprehensive cancer care with the introduction of CAR T-cell therapy as a clinical trial and a first for private hospitals in Victoria, an autologous stem cell transplant service. Additionally, a range of surgical services, including robotic-assisted surgery. The hospital also has a dedicated Breast Clinic, GP Clinic and urodynamics service.
Epworth Geelong is a 253-bed acute hospital featuring a 24/7 emergency department, 12-bed ICU, eight-bed coronary care unit, 11 operating theatres, two endoscopy suites, catheter laboratory, day oncology unit and renal dialysis unit.
Specialties include cardiology, oncology, neurology, neurosurgery, gastroenterology, colorectal surgery, orthopaedics, urology, gynaecology, vascular surgery, emergency care and rehabilitation. Epworth Geelong is the only provider of private neurosurgery services in the Geelong region.
Epworth Camberwell is a 151-bed rehabilitation and mental health hospital.
Inpatient and outpatient multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs are available to support recovery post-surgery, major illness or managing ongoing health needs. Programs include orthopaedics, neurological, as well as comprehensive best practice programs for a range of health conditions, such as arthritis, cardiac and respiratory conditions, cancer, falls and balance issues and chronic pain.
Epworth Clinic is a mental health service offering psychiatric consulting, inpatient care and therapeutic day programs, as well as a dedicated aged psychiatry unit and neurostimulation services including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and transcranial magnetic therapy (TMS). Epworth Camberwell also houses a specialist sleep studies unit.
Epworth Hawthorn is a 49-bed surgical and rehabilitation hospital.
A boutique day surgery centre, Epworth Hawthorn specialises in ear, nose and throat surgery, general surgery, oral surgery, plastic surgery, urology surgery, and urodynamics and vascular (vein) surgery.
Epworth Hawthorn delivers specialist multi-trauma orthopaedic rehabilitation in both the 30 bed inpatient ward and outpatient setting, supporting people who have sustained traumatic orthopaedic injuries, mild head injury or amputation following a motor vehicle or workplace accident. Specialist outpatient concussion and spasticity management clinics are also based at Epworth Hawthorn.
Epworth at Home provides hospital-standard care delivered by medical and allied health professionals in patients’ homes.
Epworth at Home services include acute hospital in the home care, rehabilitation and chemotherapy.
The Epworth at Home Community Integration Team (CIT) helps people safely transition to life at home and in the community after brain injury.
Epworth Specialist Centre Lilydale provides consulting services across a range of medical and surgical specialties.
Epworth Transitional Living Centre (TLC) is a residential property in Thornbury that provides a home and community environment for people to adjust to life after traumatic brain injury or complex orthopaedic injuries, enabling them to relearn everyday skills while preparing for independent living.
Our leadership
Epworth Board of Management FY25
Our Board of Management brings a breadth of expertise and a steadfast commitment to guiding Epworth HealthCare under the Epworth Foundation Act 1980 (Vic), ensuring strong governance and leadership for the future of patient care.
The Epworth Board of Management FY25:
- Ms Wendy Thorpe OAM, President
BA, BBus, Grad Dip Applied Finance & Investment, GAICD, FFin, Harvard AMP 172 - Mr Assaf Ambar
BA, BBus - Dr Alex Cockram, Deputy President
MBBS, MMed (Psych), FRANZCP, GAICD - Mr James Flintoft
LLB, BSc, M.B.A. (Wharton), GAICD - Dr Michael Georgeff
BSc, BE, PhD (London University), DIC - Associate Professor Nerina Harley AM (Retired December 2024)
MBBS, MD, FRACP, FJFIM, FCICM, PGDipEcho, AFRACMA - Dr Peter Lowthian
MBBS (Hons), FRACP, FAFRM, FRCP, FRACMA - Ms Ingrid Player
BEc, LLB (Hons), GAICD - Ms Michelle Somerville
BBus (Accounting), FCA, FAICD, Master Applied Finance - Professor Andrew Stripp, Group Chief Executive
- Reverend Sue Withers
DipTeach, BTh, GradDipPsych Grad Dip Professional Psychology, Master of Provisional Psychology, GAICD
Epworth Group Executive FY25
Alongside the Board’s governance role, our Group Executive team drives strategy and operational excellence.
They bring diverse experience to deliver on Epworth’s vision for innovative, patient-centred care.
The Epworth Group Executive FY25:
- Professor Andrew Stripp
Group Chief Executive - Mr Barry Bloch
Chief People Officer (Commenced April 2025) - Mr Scott Bulger
Executive Director, Epworth Medical Foundation - Adjunct Professor Kate Gillan
Chief Nursing Officer and Executive Director, Clinical Services - Ms Louise Kanis
Chief Communications and Engagement Officer - Ms Karen Lowe
Chief People Officer (until May 2025) - Mr Matt Malone
Chief Information Officer - Mrs Jenny Patton
Chief of Strategy and Performance - Professor Owen Roodenburg
Group Chief Medical Officer and Executive Director, Academic and Medical Services - Ms Natasha Toohey
Chief Operating Officer - Ms Sarah Turner
Chief Legal Officer and Executive Director, Corporate Governance (Commenced January 2025) - Mr Alex Young
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director Finance and Business Services
Details on our current Board and Executive members can be found here.
Previous reports
You can find annual reports from previous years here.