Launceston doctor fined $5,000 for stealing hospital fentanyl
Doctor Nabil Nathie was sentenced for stealing fentanyl from Launceston General Hospital. He used the drug to deal with work-related anxiety.
Nathie pleaded guilty to stealing, using and possessing fentanyl in mid-2025. Nathie was working as a registrar at the hospital when he did this.
A waste disposal company found empty fentanyl containers in sanitary bins. Police searched his home and found 20 empty vials.
Nathie took small doses of fentanyl before, during and after his shifts. Each dose was about one-tenth of a standard hospital vial.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 100 times stronger than morphine. It is used for severe pain and major trauma.
His defence lawyer said Nathie did not give patients less medicine than they were due. The court heard Nathie had severe anxiety and sleep loss due to work stress.
He was sentenced on October 20, 2026. He was ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
The medical regulator AHPRA has imposed conditions on his work. Its investigation continues.
- 5000 dollars
- Fine amount
- May 27 to June 11, 2025
- Theft period
- 20
- Empty vials found
- 10 micrograms, one-tenth of a vial
- Dose per use
Why it mattersThis raises questions about drug security in Australian hospitals. It also shows how mental health crises can affect medical professionals.
AustraliaHighlights vulnerability in hospital controlled-drug systems and the need for better mental health support for healthcare workers in Australian facilities.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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