Organised criminal gangs who prey on NDIS participants and their families, are being targeted by a coordinated enforcement campaign, led by the Australian Government’s Fraud Fusion Taskforce (FFT).
The groups are suspected of orchestrating large-scale fraud against government payment programs, involving up to $50 million in NDIS claims.
The FFT harnesses specialist intelligence from the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), Services Australia, the Australian Federal Police and other agencies.
Officers from the taskforce have raided businesses and homes across Adelaide and Sydney in recent weeks, partnering with state law enforcement agencies for the first time.
These raids have significantly escalated three separate NDIS investigations:
Operation Banksia – Over $40 million in NDIS claims
It is alleged the network have submitted hundreds of claims where services were not delivered, including claims for participants that were incarcerated at the time the alleged service was delivered.
Operation Howell – Over $7 million in NDIS claims
It will be alleged the network has submitted hundreds of fraudulent claims for services not provided to participants.
Operation Daewoo – Over $1.2 million in NDIS claims
It will be alleged the syndicate has stolen from participants’ plans.
The investigations were triggered by multi-agency intelligence and tip-offs, highlighting the importance of collaboration and community vigilance.
Evidence collected during these searches is being assessed for potential referral for criminal prosecution.
The NDIS Commission issued a notice of suspension and 12 notices of intention to refuse or revoke registration and to ban a number of individuals and providers. The NDIS Commission’s investigations are continuing, and further regulatory action is expected.
Quotes attributable to Senator Jenny McAllister, Minister for the NDIS:
“We’re backing the Fraud Fusion Taskforce to track down the criminals who think they can get away with stealing from people with a disability.”
The work of the Fraud Fusion Taskforce protects NDIS participants and helps safeguard the integrity of the NDIS.
“This should serve as a warning to those who seek to steal public money that is meant to support NDIS participants.”