Ten charged in Queensland GST fraud scheme

Richard Dinnen - Queensland Editor | October 7, 2022

Police have arrested 10 people across Brisbane after a long investigation into alleged goods and services tax (GST) fraud offences.

Detectives began an investigation in May this into the alleged fraud scheme committed by people linked to criminal street gangs.

Search warrants were executed over the past three weeks at properties across Brisbane and Toowoomba.

Police said they seized a BMW coupe, cash, drugs, electronic equipment, crypto hardware wallets, identification, and designer clothing.

Police will allege the 10 people arrested so far were involved in several large-scale deceptions against government agencies and financial institutions, providing false details to receive fraudulent payments.

It will be alleged these individuals collectively defrauded the Australian Taxation Office of more than $1.8 million.

All of those arrested are aged between 18 and 22. They face multiple charges and are due in court this month.

The police investigation is in partnership with the Australian Taxation Office’s Operation Protego, an investigation into widespread GST fraud.

It involves fake businesses and fictitious business activity statements to gain false GST refunds.

Detective Superintendent Tim Leadbetter said the arrests are the culmination of a complicated and complex investigation.

“We believe the funds obtained are used to undertake further serious offending.

“The cost of offending is large and has a real impact on the economy and community.”