Whistleblower Reporting
A whistleblower report is used to report serious wrongdoing within the organisation that may pose risks to care recipients, workers, the organisation, or public trust.
It is intended for matters that go beyond individual service dissatisfaction and indicate broader or systemic risk.
Understanding the Difference Between Complaints and Whistleblower Reports
What is a Complaint?
A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction about care, services, decisions, or behaviour that affects a care recipient or their representative.
What is a Whistleblower Report?
A whistleblower report is used to report serious wrongdoing within the organisation that may pose risks to care recipients, workers, the organisation, or public trust.
It relates to matters that go beyond individual service issues and may indicate systemic or serious risk.
Who can make a report?
Complaints can be made by:
- Care recipients
- Family members, carers, or representatives
- Staff or volunteers
- Members of the public
Type of Issue
Complaints may relate to:
- The quality, safety, or timeliness of care and services
- How services are delivered in the home or community
- Communication, respect, dignity, or staff conduct
- Fees, charges, or administration of services
Decisions that impact an individual care recipient
Whistleblower reports may involve concerns such as:
- Serious breaches of aged care legislation or regulatory obligations
- Fraud, corruption, or misuse of Commonwealth funds
- Serious or systemic failures in governance or risk management
- Unsafe practices that may cause significant harm
- Serious misconduct or unethical behaviour
Key Differences:
Focus
Resolution for the individual and service improvement
Protection of care recipients, organisation, and public interest
Confidentiality
Managed respectfully, not usually anonymous
Confidential or anonymous reporting available
Protection from Reprisal
Care recipients have the right to make a complaint without fear of reprisal, discrimination, or reduced quality of care.
whistleblowers are protected from victimisation or retaliation in accordance with legislation and organisational policy.
Handling Process
Complaints are managed through a complaints management system
Whistleblower reports are handled through a separate process and may be made confidentially or anonymously.
Reporting Channel
confidentialReporting@dovida.com.au
Choosing the Right Path
If your concern relates to the care or services you receive, or decisions that affect you or your representative, raising a complaint is usually the most appropriate option.
If your concern relates to serious misconduct, unlawful behaviour, or systemic risks that could affect others or the integrity of the organisation, a whistleblower report may be more appropriate.
If you are unsure which pathway applies, guidance can be provided before you submit your concern.
Our Commitment to Older People and Those Who Speak Up
We support a culture of openness, accountability, and continuous improvement. All concerns whether raised as a complaint or a whistleblower report are taken seriously and handled in line with legislative, regulatory, and ethical obligations.
Whistleblower Report
Whistleblower
A whistleblower report is used to report serious wrongdoing within the organisation that may pose risks to care recipients, workers, the organisation, or public trust. It is intended for matters that go beyond individual service dissatisfaction and indicate broader or systemic risk.
