The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) is heading toward its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, November 30 amid growing internal instability.
A wave of resignations, staff distress, workplace safety issues and a circulating letter from a concerned family member of a Community Care Services (CCS) client collectively point to an organisation perceived by some stakeholders and community members as facing governance challenges.
Since the leadership change in early 2025, reports of internal unease have gradually increased. What began as isolated reports has developed into a pattern of departures and concerns raised by some senior staff, frontline workers and members.
The executive committee is currently led by President Peter Ppiros, who was elected earlier this year.
Regulatory and governance alarms
In recent weeks, The Greek Herald confirmed that SafeWork SA attended GOCSA headquarters following issues raised with the regulator about psychological safety in the workplace. Sources say the regulator’s interest relates to allegations of unmanaged complaints, workplace stress and governance failures.
In a written response to questions from The Greek Herald, GOCSA President Mr Ppiros confirmed that SafeWork SA’s recent visit “is consistent with sector-wide initiatives aimed at ensuring workplace safety and compliance across South Australia.”
Mr Ppiros said “no significant breaches were identified,” and that the organisation used the opportunity to review procedures, conduct staff feedback sessions, reaffirm psychological safety policies, and engage external advisers to undertake risk assessments and recommend new training programs.
Mr Ppiros stated this forms part of its commitment to a safe and supportive environment for all staff.
Members have also expressed frustration that membership processing has become stagnant, with some applications reportedly awaiting review since before the recent election. This has prompted questions about whether procedures are being followed in line with the organisation’s constitution.
In response, Mr Ppiros stated that all membership applications undergo “rigorous review” under its Constitution. The Membership Committee holds absolute discretion to accept, reject or place applications in abeyance, in accordance with Article 4.
Several members also expressed their intention to seek clarification on the role and validity of the current Membership Committee at the AGM.
A surge of resignations and vacant roles
High staff turnover has marked much of 2025, particularly across senior and operational positions within GOCSA and Community Care Services. Departures have included the Media Communications Officer, Director of Nursing, Community Manager, Head of HR and others.
The General Manager and Chief Financial Officer are currently on stress leave, adding to concern about leadership continuity.
More recently, GOCSA’s Vice President, Stan Salagaras, resigned – the latest in a series of senior exits.
Several operational roles within Community Care Services, including the Clinical Nurse, Compliance Officer, Finance Officer and Roster Coordinator, also remain unfilled, which some staff say is increasing workload pressures.
In his response, Mr Ppiros acknowledged “some staff turnover this year” but stressed that continuity of service is a “key organisational objective.”
He said all departures are “treated respectfully,” and claimed exit interviews are conducted where possible, with all formal complaints “follow(ing) established procedures.” Mr Ppiros noted that recruitment for multiple roles is under way to ensure uninterrupted community support.
Workplace environment and conduct
Individuals familiar with the internal environment describe what they see as rising dysfunction and mistrust. According to accounts provided to The Greek Herald, some staff believe a small internal cohort has been exercising disproportionate influence over operations, creating uncertainty for staff and adding to wider organisational instability.
Staff also report that some complaints may be going unanswered and that communication issues are affecting day-to-day operations.
“The Executive Committee assures staff, members and the wider community that stability and effective governance are paramount,” Mr Ppiros said.
“Recent audits, governance updates, and policy reforms have strengthened accountability. These matters, as well as workplace culture, community care and membership processes, are scheduled as agenda items for open discussion at the AGM. All members are encouraged to attend and participate.”
Letter signals pressure on Community Care
Issues within the organisation now appear to be affecting client experiences as well, particularly among elderly community members relying on Community Care Services.
The Greek Herald has sighted a letter circulating among stakeholders, written by a woman who claims to be a family member of a CCS client. The correspondence highlights her concerns around oversight and consistency of service delivery.
The writer describes unanswered calls, uncertainty about who is managing care, and occasions where support workers attending Greek-speaking clients did not speak Greek. She also questioned the qualifications of some remaining staff.
“We do not know who to contact,” the letter states. “After several attempts there are no follow-ups… I am worried for my mother and for other clients.”
Mr Ppiros said the GOCSA “remains committed to quality organisational oversight marked by integrity,” supported by scheduled quality reviews aimed at improving service continuity and CCS operations.
Mr Ppiros said recent improvements have included strengthened reporting procedures and enhanced client engagement sessions. He stated that stakeholder feedback is welcomed, and that when concerns or allegations arise, management initiates formal internal reviews and may engage independent auditors where necessary.
“Families are always encouraged to contact GOCSA directly to ensure concerns are addressed professionally in a timely manner,” he added.
Members seek clarity ahead of AGM
In the lead-up to the AGM, members are seeking clear information on staff turnover, workplace complaints, SafeWork SA’s involvement and the status of membership processing under the constitution.
Families and community members have also voiced concerns about continuity of care, transparency and overall organisational direction.
The perception among many is that GOCSA is facing a period of significant uncertainty, prompting calls for clearer communication and stronger accountability.
How the Executive Committee addresses these issues will be central to restoring confidence and determining the organisation’s ability to move forward as a stable and functional community institution.
President Mr Ppiros said GOCSA acknowledges that “change can be challenging,” and expressed gratitude for the engagement of members, staff, clients and partners since the Board’s election in January 2025.
He said the Board welcomes constructive feedback “in a framework of respectful dialogue” and remains accessible through established communication channels.
He added that GOCSA will continue providing community updates “in a spirit of transparency and in the interests of progress and organisational improvement.”
