Overview

• Latrobe Regional Hospital in Victoria has reported nine sentinel events in five years, involving preventable deaths or serious harm due to adverse care.
• Three children, including newborn Lacey Lont, died within six weeks in late 2024, raising concerns over staffing shortages, inadequate training, and delayed diagnoses.
• Families and medical staff have criticized the hospital for systemic failures, including insufficient supervision, chaotic conditions, and a lack of accountability.
• Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has stated that the government is awaiting advice on next steps, while opposition leaders and families demand an independent inquiry.
• Medical professionals and advocates argue that improving hospital culture, transparency, and oversight is critical to preventing further tragedies.