Welfare fraud tip off results in jail term
Queensland media release
Monday, 1 March 2010
A public tip off has resulted in a Kallangur woman being jailed for 2 years after being convicted of a $53,000 Centrelink fraud.
Sandra Joy Nayler, 39, pleaded guilty in the Brisbane District Court to receiving Parenting Payment Single worth $53,326 she wasn’t entitled to between 2002 to 2007.
Evidence presented to the court revealed Ms Naylor was a member of a couple for that period but continued to tell Centrelink she was a single parent.
A tip off from a member of the public subsequently uncovered the deception.
In handing down the sentence, the Judge ordered Ms Naylor be imprisoned for 2 years, to be released after 5 months when she must serve a 2 year good behaviour bond.
Ms Naylor was also ordered to repay the money.
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, go to the Centrelink website at Fraud, visit their local Centrelink office or write to us.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.