The Charges:
2 counts of Obtaining a Financial advantage for Self, due to having misrepresented their income to Centrelink during two separate periods.
Court Attended:
Southport Magistrates Court
Attendance Date:
April 2018
Overview of Case:
The client was charged with two counts of obtaining a financial advantage for self, each charge of which carries a maximum penalty of 12 months imprisonment and up to an $18,000 fine per offence. This related to the client misreporting their income over two separate periods totalling approximately 18 months. During this time, the client obtained overpayments of in excess of $16,000. The misrepresentations were discovered by way of a tip-off from the public.
The client presented with a criminal history, however, the most recent offence was in excess of 25 years prior and had no like offences.
Outcome:
In sentencing the client, the Court took into consideration that the client had pleaded guilty at the earliest possible opportunity, showed genuine remorse, the lack of any like offences in their criminal history and the relatively minor amount of money involved.
The client was sentenced to three-month imprisonment with immediate parole, with a parole period of 18 months. The client was required to enter into a Bond to be of good behaviour and was ordered to repay the monies to Centrelink in addition to court costs.
If you need help with a fraud or other criminal offence, contact Brooke Winter Solicitors for advice on your matter.