NSW Police detectives have laid more than 90 charges against a man as part of ongoing investigations into actual and attempted frauds against NSW Government COVID-19 and disaster relief schemes.
In November 2021, detectives attached to the State Crime Command’s Financial Crimes Squad and all Sydney Metropolitan Regions, established Strike Force Sainsbery to investigate fraudulent applications made against NSW Government financial-relief schemes related to the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters. The Service NSW Fraud Response Unit is also assisting Strike Force Sainsbery.
As part of ongoing inquiries, investigators uncovered a significant number of alleged fraudulent applications made against NSW Government grant schemes, including:
- The 2021 COVID-19 micro-business grant
- Small business fees and charges rebate
- JobSaver payment
- Test and Isolate support payment
- Rental support payment
- Mouse control support program
- Export assistance grant, and
- Fee waivers and tax assistance schemes.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives have issued a 42-year-old man with a Court Attendance Notice for 91 counts of dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception, and knowingly deal with proceeds of crime.
Police will allege in court that the man submitted fraudulent applications for numerous NSW Government grants and payments – totalling $246,450 – using falsified information and documentation.
It is further alleged the man submitted additional fraudulent applications – totalling $590,550 – against schemes that were not approved or paid.
The Greenacre man has been formally refused bail and will appear at Burwood Local Court on July 6.
Investigations under Strike Force Sainsbery continue.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Sainsbery investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.Â
