Woman jailed after using false documents to claim welfare payments
Queensland media release
Wednesday, 5 May 2010
A Maryborough woman who faked documents to claim 2 Centrelink payments she wasn't entitled to has been jailed for 8 months.
Bouvea Jacqueline Knights, 26, of Granville pleaded guilty in the Maryborough Magistrates Court today to welfare fraud charges relating to Family Tax Benefit and Baby Bonus.
Evidence presented to the court revealed Ms Knights presented false medical documents and a fake birth certificate to claim the 2 payments and between 2008–2009 received more than $11,000 she wasn't entitled to.
A tip off alerted Centrelink to the deception.
The Magistrate sentenced her to 8 months jail, with a non parole period of 2 months and to serve a 12-month good behaviour bond upon her release from prison.
Ms Knights was also ordered to repay the debt.
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, visit the Centrelink website, visit their local Centrelink office or write to us.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.