Centrelink fraud is a term used to describe the offences of obtaining property by deception from a Commonwealth entity or obtaining a financial advantage by deception from a Commonwealth entity. It occurs when an individual obtains money from the Department of Social Services (a Commonwealth entity) to which they are not entitled by means of a deception/s. If you are facing allegations of Centrelink fraud, it is crucial that you seek experienced legal support as soon as possible.
At Stary Norton Halphen, we specialise in providing robust defence and knowledgeable guidance through the complexities of Centrelink fraud allegations to people in Melbourne and surrounding areas.
Centrelink fraud, or welfare fraud, occurs when someone knowingly provides false information or withholds information to receive payments to which they are not entitled. This can include falsifying the following;
The Australian Government takes these offences very seriously.
If you are charged with either obtaining property by deception from a Commonwealth entity or obtaining a financial advantage by deception from a Commonwealth entity the prosecution of your matter will be handled by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP).
If you are found guilty of either of these offences, the consequences can be severe and include fines, community work and imprisonment. The specific penalty often depends on the amount involved, the duration of the fraud, and how many instances of deception a person engaged in throughout the duration of their offending.
Repayment of the monies fraudulently obtained will also be ordered.
At Stary Norton Halphen, we take considerable care in our preparation of your matter. Our defence strategies are tailored to the specifics of your case, ranging from:
We have extensive experience handling Centrelink fraud cases. We understand the intricacies of the law and the necessary steps to ensure that you are well represented.
Our Approach
We approach each case with a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome and the pursuit of justice. We take the time to provide our clients with clear and practical advice, always maintaining open communication and ensuring they are well-informed at every stage of your case.
If you are facing Centrelink fraud allegations, we encourage you to contact Stary Norton Halphen. Our knowledgeable team are ready to provide the support and legal expertise you need to keep your life on track.
Schedule a consultation with us today and face your Centrelink issues head-on.
Advice from a competent and experienced criminal lawyer before you are interviewed can and often does have a meaningful impact on the outcome of your case and in some instances, is the difference between whether your matter proceeds to court or not.
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