Queensland Fertility Group Statement on ABC Reporting

Queensland Fertility Group (QFG) acknowledges the ABC’s reporting of a deeply distressing incident that occurred more than a decade ago. We extend our heartfelt empathy to the family involved and recognise the profound impact this experience has had on their lives.

This incident took place in 2014 under the governance of a former public company board and management team. QFG has been privately owned since late 2022.
 
At the time, QFG was advised of the incident and suspended the use of all donor sperm from Seattle Sperm Bank. Seattle Sperm Bank conducted its own investigation, identified a mislabelling error, and assumed full legal responsibility. QFG also undertook a physical on-site audit of the sperm bank’s identification and witnessing procedures. All remaining donor sperm from the implicated donor was destroyed.
 
Following this, QFG implemented a double witnessing policy for all donor sperm.
 
This incident occurred prior to the introduction of mandatory adverse event reporting to the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC). As such, QFG was not obligated to report the matter to RTAC at the time. Questions regarding disclosure to the ASX are a matter for the former public company board.
 
While we acknowledge shortcomings in communication by the former management, we do not believe there was a deliberate attempt to conceal the incident. A settlement agreement was reached with the family. We respect the confidentiality of that agreement and the privacy of the family.
 
Today, QFG continues to meet all RTAC accreditation requirements. In 2024, the Queensland Office of the Health Ombudsman confirmed that QFG’s sperm storage practices were compliant. Single witnessing was the accepted national standard until 2012 and has since been replaced by double witnessing. The OHO has not directed QFG to destroy any single witnessed sperm samples.
 
Single witnessed sperm is used on a case-by-case basis after appropriate counselling. QFG remains committed to a patient-first approach and tailors communication with sensitivity to each family's needs.
 
We support the Federal Government’s review of IVF sector regulation and welcome efforts to establish a national framework that enhances safety, transparency, and accountability. This includes the creation of an independent accreditation body, consistent IVF laws, and a national donor register.
 
QFG remains committed to continuous improvement and the highest standards of care. A full copy of the statement QFG provided to the ABC in response to their media enquiries can be found here.