Centrelink & Commonwealth Fraud

Canberra's status as the national capital and home to Australia's largest concentration of Commonwealth public servants means that Centrelink and Commonwealth fraud matters are disproportionately common here compared to other Australian cities. Many of our clients are Australian Public Service employees who face allegations of incorrectly claiming government benefits while earning a full-time salary. Andrew Byrnes Law Group provides experienced defence representation for all types of Commonwealth fraud charges in the ACT, including Centrelink overpayments, false claims, and defrauding Commonwealth entities.

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Why Choose Andrew Byrnes Law Group

Commonwealth fraud matters involve unique complexities. The offences are prosecuted under federal legislation by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, the investigation is typically conducted by the Australian Federal Police or Centrelink's own fraud investigation unit, and the sentencing framework differs from ACT state offences. Our lawyers have specific experience in:

Defending Commonwealth fraud charges in the ACT Magistrates Court and Supreme Court
Negotiating with the CDPP on charge outcomes and facts
Presenting mitigation materials that address both the criminal case and the client's employment consequences
Advising APS employees on the interaction between criminal proceedings and Code of Conduct investigations
Seeking non-conviction outcomes under section 19B of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth)

Impact on Security Clearances

For APS employees and defence contractors, a fraud charge can trigger an AGSVA security clearance review. Our lawyers understand the relationship between criminal proceedings and security vetting, and we structure defence strategies that account for both processes.

Serving Canberra and Surrounding Regions

Andrew Byrnes Law Group represents clients in Commonwealth fraud matters across Canberra, Queanbeyan, Yass, Goulburn, and surrounding regions. Contact us on (02) 6210 1075 for a confidential consultation.

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