A 48-year-old man in western Victoria has been arrested following an investigation into allegations of defrauding the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) of approximately $700,000. Victoria Police and the National Disability Insurance Agency launched an investigation after claims the man had defrauded his NDIS plan between June 28, 2024, and June 30, 2026.
Police allege the man established two businesses and submitted false invoices for services he claimed to have received. These funds were then allegedly distributed into his personal bank accounts. Detectives also stated that the man dealt with property suspected of being proceeds of crime.
Authorities searched a home in the Horsham area on Wednesday, leading to the man's arrest. He is scheduled to be interviewed regarding the allegations.
A spokesperson for the National Disability Insurance Agency emphasized that the vast majority of NDIS participants and providers operate legitimately. "We will continue to use intelligence, data analytics and joint investigations to identify, detect and disrupt fraud, so NDIS funding is protected for the Australians who rely on it," the spokesperson stated.
Victoria Police urges anyone with information regarding fraudulent activity to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.