Media release (Queensland):
Logan woman jailed for Centrelink fraud

Tuesday, 9 November 2010

A Logan woman was jailed for two-and-a-half years yesterday (Monday, November 8) for fraudulently collecting Centrelink payments for more than 4 years.

Debbie Marie Hoschke, 38, of Crestmead in Logan City, dishonestly collected $61,239.92 in Newstart Allowance and Parenting Payment Single payments she wasn’t entitled to between March 2003 and June 2007.

The Brisbane District Court was told Ms Hoschke claimed single-rate payments while living in an undisclosed relationship and also failed to declare income.

Judge Leanne Clare jailed Ms Hoschke for two-and-a-half years, with a non-parole period of 6 months. 

The court heard that the fraud initially came to the attention of Centrelink through a tip-off.

Centrelink General Manager Hank Jongen said 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. 

“The message is clear – those who rort the system will be caught and face the possibility of jail time and of course, paying back the debt.”

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 section, visit their nearest Centrelink office or write to us.

For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.