Centrelink Fraud

CENTRELINK FRAUD (NSW & FEDERAL LAW)

DEALING WITH CHARGES OF WELFARE FRAUD? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

WHAT IS CENTRELINK FRAUD?

Centrelink fraud occurs when a person intentionally provides false or misleading information to obtain a financial benefit from Centrelink they are not lawfully entitled to.

This is a criminal offence under:

• SECTION 135.2 OF THE CRIMINAL CODE ACT 1995 (CTH) – Obtaining a financial advantage by deception
• SOCIAL SECURITY (ADMINISTRATION) ACT 1999 (CTH) – Specific welfare offences

Centrelink fraud is investigated by Services Australia and prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP).

EXAMPLES OF CENTRELINK FRAUD

Common examples include:

• Failing to report income or employment
• Claiming payments while living overseas
• Falsely declaring relationship status
• Providing false information on Centrelink applications
• Continuing to receive benefits after becoming ineligible

PENALTIES FOR CENTRELINK FRAUD

Centrelink fraud is treated seriously and may lead to:

• Criminal conviction
• Fines of up to $12,600 (per offence)
• Repayment of unlawfully received benefits
• Good behaviour bonds
• Community service
• Imprisonment of up to 10 years (for serious or repeated offences)

⚠️ A conviction can also impact your employment, travel, and professional licences.

WHAT MUST THE PROSECUTION PROVE?

To convict you of Centrelink fraud, the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that:

1. You obtained a financial benefit
2. You were not legally entitled to that benefit
3. You did so intentionally and dishonestly

DEFENCES TO CENTRELINK FRAUD

Possible legal defences include:

• Lack of intent (you did not knowingly or dishonestly provide false information)
• Genuine mistake or misunderstanding
• Mental health or cognitive impairment
• Duress (you were coerced to act)
• No deception occurred

Our lawyers analyse all facts and evidence to build the strongest defence possible.

HOW DO CENTRELINK FRAUD CASES START?

Investigations usually begin when:

• Centrelink detects discrepancies during audits
• Someone provides a tip-off
• There is undeclared income or relationship status
• Data-matching reveals inconsistencies

You may receive:

• A review notice from Centrelink
• A request for an interview or statement
• A referral to the Commonwealth DPP

⚠️ Do not attend any interviews or respond to allegations without legal advice.

YOUR LEGAL OPTIONS

If you are charged, you can:

• Plead Not Guilty – Challenge the allegations and evidence
• Plead Guilty – Seek a more lenient outcome if the evidence is strong
• Negotiate Charges – Request a reduction or withdrawal of charges

Our lawyers will advise you on the best course based on your case.

FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT SENTENCING

If convicted, the court considers:

• The amount of the overpayment
• The length of time the fraud occurred
• Whether the conduct was deliberate or opportunistic
• Whether you voluntarily repaid the money
• Your personal background and any prior convictions
• Whether you cooperated with authorities
• Signs of remorse or rehabilitation

WHY CHOOSE CRIMINAL LAWYERS GROUP?

• Specialists in Commonwealth criminal law and fraud
• Extensive experience in avoiding convictions and minimising penalties
• Skilled in Centrelink interviews, court advocacy, and negotiations
• Track record of successful outcomes in complex fraud cases

CONTACT US FOR IMMEDIATE LEGAL HELP

If you’re being investigated or charged with Centrelink fraud, speak to an experienced criminal defence lawyer today.

🕘 FREE & CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION – AVAILABLE 24/7

📞 Call: 8815 8177
📧 Email: info@criminallawyersgroup.com.au
🌐 Visit: www.criminallawyersgroup.com.au

CRIMINAL LAWYERS GROUP – DEFENDING YOUR FUTURE WITH EXPERIENCE AND INTEGRITY.