Community organisation PRONIA has issued a public statement following concerns raised by John Kostoulias, President of the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria, about the Federation’s relationship with the welfare provider.
In a letter, Mr Kostoulias expressed concern over the nature of a private meeting held on 11 December 2024 with PRONIA senior staff, writing that the discussion became adversarial.
“These incidents have severely impacted my already fragile health…” he claimed in the letter.
Mr Kostoulias also referenced challenges the Federation has faced in recent months, including communication and logistical issues, and cited an alleged $180,000 contribution made to PRONIA in the 1990s, which he claims was linked to maintaining Federation headquarters at PRONIA’s Brunswick site. PRONIA denies these allegations.
On 19 December, PRONIA responded in writing, stating Mr Kostoulias’ conduct during the meeting was “both unsatisfactory and unacceptable… which made PRONIA staff feel unsafe.” The letter noted the Federation remained welcome, but added that Mr Kostoulias would not be permitted to return if future conduct again raised concerns.
Further tensions were reported after a meeting on 15 March 2025. PRONIA later confirmed Mr Kostoulias would no longer attend the premises.
In response to the situation, PRONIA issued a public statement on April 1.
“On Friday, an incident occurred on our PRONIA premises that impacted on members of our team. Since then, there have been various comments and articles published concerning PRONIA and the Federation of the Greek Elderly,” the statement read.
“PRONIA and the Federation share a long-standing history. PRONIA has consistently supported the Federation and the Greek community and remains dedicated to this commitment.
“The Federation always remains welcome at PRONIA.”
PRONIA said it would not be making further comment.
Mr Kostoulias said the Federation’s Board has unanimously reaffirmed his presidency and commitment to collaboration.
The future of the working relationship between the two organisations remains to be seen.
