VIC Centrelink Fraud - How Should I Own Up To It?

[Dan Mauve]

I have found my conscience after knowingly committing fraud to Centrelink. I haven't yet been caught but want to pay the money back anyway. I have a few questions if anybody knows about this?

 

[Sarah J]

Hi Dan,

Centrelink fraud or giving Centrelink misleading or false information is a criminal act and taken quite seriously. I cannot advise you as to what you should do. However, read this fact sheet from the Victorian Legal Aid and perhaps speak with a lawyer from your local community legal centre as to your options. The Fitzroy Legal Centre is particularly good as they have drop-in sessions on most evenings without need for appointment.

 

[Sophea]

Hi Dan, cases of centrelink fraud are generally prosecuted under s135.2(1) of the Cth Criminal Code, "obtaining a financial advantage from a Commonwealth entity" which carries maximum penalty of 12 months jail and/or a fine of $6,600. It is a summary offence. Even if you pay back the money that you took, you can still be charged with an offence.

I would seek personalised legal advice before you do anything else as Sarah said.

 

[Dan Mauve]

Thank you to both of you for your informative advice. I shall head to the Fitzroy Legal Centre one day this week and report back on the next steps I'm thinking of taking.

 

[willow]

Thank you to both of you for your informative advice. I shall head to the Fitzroy Legal Centre one day this week and report back on the next steps I'm thinking of taking.

How did you go Dan??

 

[Clancy]

How did you go Dan??

I am not sure Dan will remember how things went since it happened 4 years ago!?

 

[willow]

I am not sure Dan will remember how things went since it happened 4 years ago!?

I would say things like these would burn in your memory forever ;(