In 2023–24 we saw another increase in our ATO-led prosecution outcomes, building on the previous year with 226 successful court cases and $2.86 million worth of fines. We are continuing to see an upward trend to pre-pandemic levels.
Our recent investigations led to significant breakthroughs in combating tax fraud. We brought to justice Shaun Both, who fraudulently obtained over $1 million in GST refunds. We uncovered the deceptive activities of Ravindra Narayan and Duane Saltmer, who claimed $4 million in false tax refunds. Additionally, we exposed Gavin Swan, who redirected nearly $600,000 from clients’ tax returns and COVID-19 relief payments. These three cases resulted in a combined 23 years in prison.
Tax offences – typically under the Taxation Administration Act (1953) (TAA) include:
• failing to lodge a tax return, BAS or FBT return
• failing to comply with an information gathering notice
• failing to comply with a Court Order under s8G of the TAA
• making false or misleading statements, and
• incorrectly keeping records.
Offences prosecuted under the Criminal Code, include:
• obtaining financial advantage by deception
• dishonestly causing a loss to the Commonwealth
• forgery offences
• money laundering
• Illicit tobacco offences.
Our Audit, Investigations, and Prosecution teams within the Criminal Law Program work diligently to ensure all taxpayers meet their obligations. If you would like to know more about our compliance activities, visit Tax crimes prosecutions results.