Bundaberg woman jailed for welfare fraud
Queensland media release
Friday, 5 March 2010
A Bundaberg woman who defrauded Centrelink of almost $50,000 has been jailed for 2 years.
Jaime Jean Schloss, 31, pleaded guilty in the Bundaberg District Court to collecting Parenting Payment Single worth $46,861 between 2003–2008 while living as a member of a couple.
A public tip-off led to the investigation which uncovered the deception.
In handing down sentence, the Judge imposed a 2-year jail term, to be released after 4 months when Ms Schloss must service a 3-year good behaviour bond and ordered she repay an amount of $45,299.
Centrelink General Manager, Hank Jongen says the public has a right to be angered by those who defraud the welfare system.
"This is effectively ripping off the tax payer and the message from this sentence is clear – if you commit welfare fraud, the system will catch up with you," Mr Jongen said.
"Australia's about giving people a fair go, and our welfare system gives people who are genuinely in need a safety net when they can’t support themselves.
"All Australians have an important role to play in making sure welfare payments go to those in need by stopping people who deliberately commit fraud.
"Together, Centrelink and the Australian community can help keep the welfare system fair."
To report a suspected fraud, members of the public can call the Australian Government Services Fraud Tip-off Line on 13 1524, refer to the Fraud information page, visit their local Centrelink office or write to us.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.