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In short:
A Tarneit truck driver has been fined and ordered to repay over $75,000 after working for multiple companies while receiving workers compensation. WorkSafe investigators uncovered the fraud through surveillance and employer records, leading to court action in Werribee.
The driver worked for five firms while claiming
A 41-year-old truck driver from Tarneit has been fined and ordered to repay more than $75,000 after he was caught working for five different companies while receiving workers compensation payments.
He appeared before Werribee Magistrates’ Court on 31 July and pleaded guilty to a single charge of fraudulently obtaining payments. The court fined him $5,000, without recording a conviction, and ordered full restitution of $75,544.
The man lodged a claim for mental stress, anxiety and depression in June 2022, stating he was unable to work. However, investigations revealed he had returned to work as early as April 2022 and continued to work for several companies while collecting compensation payments until May 2023.
Surveillance later confirmed he was self-employed, prompting the termination of his compensation. Five employers provided evidence to WorkSafe investigators confirming they had engaged the driver during this period.
Throughout that time, the driver submitted medical certificates declaring he was not working and unable to work.
Return to Work Victoria Executive Director Jason Lardelli said fraudulent behaviour undermines the integrity of the system.
“It’s always disappointing when people choose to abuse the system that is in place to help support injured workers,” Mr Lardelli said.
“Giving false information to receive compensation payments is fraudulent and a serious crime. It’s simply unacceptable, particularly when the scheme is here for those who genuinely depend on it.”
