A Melton man has been sentenced to one year and six months' imprisonment for defrauding and attempting to defraud the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) of more than $250,000 in fraudulent business activity statements.
He was sentenced in the County Court of Victoria on 14 October, 2025, to 18 months imprisonment with a non-parole period of eight months. The remainder of his sentence will be served under a Recognisance Release Order.
An AFP investigation into the fraud activity began in December, 2022, after the man, now aged 29, received GST refunds after lodging fraudulent business activity statements for 'handyman services' over a six-month period.
The man also attempted to claim an additional $73,569 in GST refunds.
AFP and Victoria Police investigators executed a search warrant in Weir Views on 6 March, 2023, and seized a phone and a letter from the ATO about the fraudulent activity.
The man was charged and pleaded guilty to the following offences on 1 May, 2025:
- One count of obtaining a financial advantage by deception, contrary to section 134.2 of the Criminal Code (Cth); and
- One count of attempting to obtain a financial advantage by deception, contrary to 134.2 of the Criminal Code (Cth).
In addition to the term of imprisonment, the man was ordered to pay $176,365 to the ATO.
AFP Detective Acting Inspector Yoran Wolfkamp said every dollar fraudulently obtained through GST refunds was at the expense of the Australian community.
"Everyday Australians suffer when the taxation system is exploited and the revenue raised is not used to support the community and instead goes into the pockets of criminals," Det a/Insp Wolfkamp said.
"This result is a warning to people who seek to exploit the taxation system - you may face terms of imprisonment if you engage in this behaviour.
"The AFP is committed to combatting financial crimes and will work diligently with our partners in the Serious Financial Crime Taskforce to identify and prosecute those who seek to cheat the tax system."
ATO Assistant Commissioner Jade Hawkins said the outcome sends a clear message to anyone thinking of defrauding the tax system.
"We know most people do the right thing, but those who deliberately cheat the system will be caught and will face severe consequences including jail sentences for serious offenders."
"GST fraud is not a victimless crime - the ATO remains vigilant and committed to pursue those who seek to exploit the system and reduce the resources available for essential public services," Ms Hawkins said.
As at 30 September 2025, 140 people have been convicted through Operation Protego, with a range of sentencing outcomes, including jail terms of up to seven years and six months and with orders made to restrain real property.
The ATO works closely with the AFP and its state law enforcement partners in dealing with this criminal activity.
We also have access to intelligence through community tip offs - you can confidentially report suspected tax crime or fraud to us by making a tip-off online or calling 1800 060 062.
