The operators of a Melbourne hospital have been charged over the tragic death of a new mother left unsupervised for 11 hours after her admission to a mental health ward.

WorkSafe on Tuesday charged Ramsay Health Care Australia, who run Mitcham Private Hospital, with two counts of failing to ensure the safety of a person who was not an employee.

Sarah Skillington, 33, took her own life within days of being admitted to the hospital’s Perinatal Mental Health Unit following the birth of daughter Lily on November 6, 2023.

Skillington’s death was the subject of a 2025 coronial inquest which heard the architect had developed significant anxiety shortly after giving birth. Her doctor recommended she be admitted to Mitcham Private for extra support.

Coroner David Ryan found that Skillington’s d

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