Greek welfare organisation PRONIA has officially barred the President of the Federation of of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria John Kostoulias, from entering its premises, citing “multiple incidents of unacceptable behaviour.”
A meeting of the Federation on 30 March reportedly turned chaotic at the offices of PRONIA, with reports of a woman fainting, an ambulance being called, and alleged threats against Federation President John Kostoulias, who is said to have also sought police assistance.
Federation protests outside PRONIA
On 10 April, president Kostoulias and members of the Federation’s Board staged a meeting on the footpath outside PRONIA’s building in Brunswick, protesting what they claim is unfair treatment.
“PRONIA refuses entry to the President, claiming he is dangerous and that staff fear him,” Kostoulias said in a public statement, arguing that PRONIA wants the Federation but not its elected leader.
He questioned the ownership of the building, suggesting that as members of the Greek elderly community—who, he says, have historically contributed through fundraising—they have a rightful claim to access the space.
“This office is ours, and this is where we wish to remain and conduct our work,” he said.
“PRONIA is giving us a tiny office, has cut off our phone, and now won’t let us inside the building. That’s why we held our meeting on the sidewalk.”
Kostoulias added that repeated requests to meet with PRONIA’s management were rejected and accused the organisation of interfering in the Federation’s internal affairs.
“We respect the organisation called PRONIA, but we demand reciprocal respect from them. We want collaboration, not submission.”
The Federation’s Board unanimously backed Kostoulias, according to his statement, and pledged to review proposals for future actions.
PRONIA responds to criticism
PRONIA, in its official response, stated it had chosen to remain discreet amid ongoing public commentary, out of respect for its members, staff, and the community.
In a statement issued to Neos Kosmos, the organisation said the decision was taken “to ensure the safety of staff and service users,” following what it described as a fair and objective review process.
“Out of respect for our valued members, staff and community – PRONIA has intentionally been reserved in response to recent allegations levelled at our organisation.
However, recent distressing events have meant we need to take a strong stance to show that we have zero tolerance for any behaviours that leave our staff or community feeling unsafe, traumatised, vulnerable and at risk.
“As a result, PRONIA has conducted a fair and reasonable process with the Federation (of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria) President following multiple incidents of unacceptable behaviour.
“PRONIA has a legal and ethical obligation to do whatever is necessary to keep its staff and clients safe at all times. This is non-negotiable. Under no circumstances will we ever allow them to be exposed to any form of abuse. Their health and wellbeing are paramount.
For this reason, the decision has been made to preclude the president from PRONIA’s premises moving forward.”
Despite this, PRONIA emphasised that the Federation itself, and the broader Greek community, “remain welcome and respected.”
