Fraud charges on the Gold Coast can arise from a wide range of circumstances — from allegations of corporate dishonesty and investment fraud to identity theft, Centrelink fraud, and insurance scams. The Gold Coast’s thriving business community and tourism economy mean that fraud prosecutions in this region are diverse and often complex. Regardless of the nature of the allegation, a fraud conviction carries severe penalties and can be devastating to your career and personal life.
At Hannay Criminal Defence, our Gold Coast criminal lawyers have extensive experience defending fraud and dishonesty charges in the Southport Magistrates Court, Southport District Court, and beyond. We bring the analytical rigour and legal expertise that complex fraud matters demand. We don’t miss a trick.
Fraud in Queensland is governed by section 408C of the Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld). A person commits fraud if they dishonestly apply property to their own use, obtain property from another, gain a benefit, cause a detriment, or make off without paying for goods or services. The concept of “property” is defined broadly to include money, credit, services, and any benefit or advantage.
The penalties are tiered: 5 years imprisonment for standard fraud, 14 years for aggravated fraud (involving amounts between $30,000 and $100,000, breaches of trust, or corporate fraud), and 20 years for serious aggravated fraud involving $100,000 or more.
Courtesy of Hannay Criminal Defence


