Centrelink Fraud Lawyers
Centrelink Fraud Lawyers in Melbourne
Centrelink fraud, also referred to as welfare fraud, involves allegations of obtaining a financial advantage or property by deception from a Commonwealth entity, including Services Australia (Centrelink).
At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, we represent individuals facing serious allegations of Centrelink fraud across Melbourne and Victoria. These matters are investigated and prosecuted by Commonwealth authorities and can carry significant penalties, including imprisonment.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with Centrelink fraud, it is critical to obtain experienced legal advice as early as possible.
What Is Centrelink Fraud?
Centrelink fraud occurs when a person is alleged to have knowingly provided false or misleading information, or failed to disclose relevant information, in order to obtain payments they are not entitled to receive.
Common examples include:
Incorrect reporting of income or employment
Failure to disclose assets or financial resources
Misstatement of relationship or household circumstances
Providing false personal or identification details
Continuing to receive payments after eligibility has changed
These allegations are taken extremely seriously by the Australian Government and are routinely investigated over extended periods.
How Centrelink Fraud Is Prosecuted
Centrelink fraud matters are prosecuted under Commonwealth law, typically involving offences such as:
Obtaining financial advantage by deception from a Commonwealth entity
Obtaining property by deception from a Commonwealth entity
These prosecutions are conducted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) following investigation by Services Australia and other federal agencies.
Matters may involve detailed financial analysis, data matching, and review of historical records spanning several years.
Penalties for Centrelink Fraud
If found guilty of Centrelink fraud offences, the Court may impose serious penalties, including:
Significant fines
Community corrections orders
Repayment of all overpaid amounts
Confiscation or recovery proceedings
Imprisonment in serious cases
Sentencing will depend on factors such as the amount alleged, the duration of the offending, and whether the Court considers the conduct to be deliberate or reckless.
How Our Centrelink Fraud Lawyers Can Help
At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, we provide strategic and practical advice tailored to the specifics of each case.
We can assist by:
Reviewing the evidence and Centrelink records
Advising on police and CDPP interviews
Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution case
Negotiating charge reductions or withdrawals where appropriate
Preparing submissions for sentencing or contested hearings
Representing you in Court at all stages of the process
Our approach is focused on protecting your rights, minimising exposure, and achieving the best possible outcome.
Defence Strategies in Centrelink Fraud Cases
Every matter is different, and potential defence strategies may include:
Lack of intent or honest mistake
Insufficient evidence of deception
Incorrect assessment of income or entitlement
Administrative or reporting errors
Disputes over financial or personal circumstances
Early legal advice is essential to ensure your position is protected before providing statements or responding to investigators.
Early Legal Advice Is Critical
Centrelink investigations often begin long before charges are laid. Early engagement with a lawyer can significantly impact how the matter proceeds.
We assist clients at all stages, including:
Initial investigations and audits
Recorded interviews and notices to attend
Charge negotiations
Court proceedings
Expert Criminal Defence Lawyers Melbourne
If you are being investigated or have been charged with Centrelink fraud, it is important to act quickly.
Contact Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally immediately on (03) 8622 8200 or submit an enquiry through our website.