2 Queensland women jailed for Centrelink fraud
Queensland media release
Friday, 4 June 2010
2 Queensland women who fraudulently collected more than $140,000 in Centrelink payments have been jailed today.
Rosemary Sondergard, 32 of Redbank pleaded guilty in the Beenleigh Magistrates Court to receiving Parenting Payment Single between 1999 and 2007, worth $88,707 while living in a relationship.
She’s been jailed for 3 years, to be released after 4 months on a good behaviour bond for 3 ½ years.
Jodie Lee Jenkins, 38, of Bilinga appeared in the Brisbane District Court where she also pleaded guilty to receiving Parenting Payment Single, between 2003 and 2008 worth $51,479 while living in a relationship.
Ms Jenkins has been jailed for 18 months, with a non-parole period of 3 months to be released on a 2-year good behaviour bond.
The deception committed by Ms Jenkins was detected through data matching with the Australian Tax Office, while a tip off alerted authorities to Ms Sondergard’s fraud.
Centrelink General Manager, Hank Jongen, says both cases highlight the success of the Commonwealth’s investigative processes and should serve as a warning to others.
"The vast majority of Centrelink customers are honest and entitled to payments but it’s vital customers tell us when their personal circumstances change to avoid ending up with a Centrelink debt and possible prosecution," said Mr Jongen.
"Customers are required to tell Centrelink about changes, such as starting a relationship, getting married, taking on or leaving employment and changing address.
"We have one of the most sophisticated electronic data-matching systems in Australia, which matches customer records with external providers, such as banks and other government agencies.
"I urge anyone who suspects a person may be committing welfare fraud to contact our Tip-Off line because together Centrelink and the Australian community can help keep the welfare system fair," Mr Jongen said.
To report a suspected fraud, call the Australian Government Services Fraud Tip-off Line on 13 1524, refer to the Fraud information page, visit a Centrelink office or write to us.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.