Last week the Australian Federal Police (AFP) executed search warrants across three premises on the Sunshine Coast, following an investigation by the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) fraud team – with support from Services Australia, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and the Queensland Police Service.
A 36-year-old Caloundra woman, listed as a director of two registered NDIS providers, was later served with a notice to attend court.
The alleged offender was served with a notice to appear on one charge of General Dishonesty in relation to alleged offences of fraud to a value of more than $480,000.
Minister for ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Affairs Karen Andrews said today’s action was proof of the Morrison Government’s commitment to catching anyone intending to defraud the Australian taxpayer.
“Any disability service provider who thinks they can get away with criminal activity targeting NDIS participants will be caught and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” Minister Andrews said.
Last week’s activity continues the NDIA’s ongoing focus to crack down on fraud against the NDIS and its participants, Minister for the NDIS, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC, said.
“One dollar fraudulently obtained is one dollar that isn’t received by those who are entitled to NDIS funding,” Minister Reynolds said.
“Many NDIS participants rely on their plan funding to access the disability supports to which they are entitled, and that support them to lead the life they choose. That’s something every Australian needs to protect.”
Anyone found guilty of fraud against the NDIS faces the prospect of imprisonment. The NDIS Commission has significant powers to take action against NDIS providers registered or not, where they are found to have not complied with their obligations.
Anyone with concerns that fraud is being committed against the NDIS should contact the NDIS fraud hotline on 1800 650 717.
