$80k increase to Centrelink payments

The $21 million tax scam that paid big bucks to remote, disadvantaged residents

The govt was talking about giving people extra $ this tax time. A Govt that delivers on their promises, amazing!! Good luck getting that money back.

 

And it's the ATO's problem why? (apart from their process failed).

 

An almost comical situation. A funny story if it wasn't real

No doubt the ATO will go after every dollar - - but its gonski

 

I was aware of taxpayers affected by this after an ATO enquiry. Quite seriously anyone who participated may be charged by the DPP under the Crimes Act which is beyond the control of the ATO. Conspiracy to defraud the Commonwealth is a serious offence. Probably not a scheme promoter issue to be honest but a matter under the Crimes Act. I was aware of enquiries for bankruptcy however taxpayer assets would be sold under bankruptcy to settle the matter so that avenue is of little benefit. And bankruptcy wont protect a criminal charge.

Not all are centrelink recipients. The move to single touch payroll has led to some early detection here.

 

So 42 people got $20m before the ATO realised?

 

What was claimed and what was paid are very different. I would imagine most overclaims are in the order of $10-$15K and so an upper estimate of $650K is probably likely. The $20m refers to the approx 700 attempted claims. Its a fraction of the evident Centrelink fraud that occurs due to fake claims, cash payments and spouses that arent on the record.

However just because you didnt receive the refund dont think that the matter has ended. One of the best ways to encourage discussion is to freeze payments.