Centrelink Fraud
There is a range of different forms of Centrelink fraud, however, there are two elements in particular that the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt.
Your conduct or omissions enabled financial benefit to be obtained from Centrelink
You knew you were not eligible to receive those benefits
If you, or someone you know requires legal advice or representation in a matter concerning Centrelink Fraud, please contact our experienced team of criminal lawyers to assist you.
Centrelink Fraud
Examples of Centrelink Fraud
Examples of Centrelink fraud include:
Failing to report your income,
Reporting your incorrect income,
Failing to report a change in circumstances,
Making false statements (e.g., exaggerated medical conditions),
Incorrectly declaring a relationship to receive extra benefits
Navigating this process can be complicated. We recommend seeking legal advice from our team of experienced criminal lawyers to represent your case.
Maximum Penalties
The maximum penalties for common Centrelink offences include:
10 years imprisonment for obtaining property or a financial advantage by deception (s134.1(1) and s134.2(1) of the Criminal Code).
10 years imprisonment for the offence of general dishonesty causing a loss (s135.1(5) of the Criminal Code),
12 months imprisonment for an offence of obtaining financial advantage (s135.2(1) of the Criminal Code).