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Investigation & Fraud News – Week ending 25 September 2026
Australian regulator sues retailer’s ex-CEO for misleading market over alleged office romance – 21 September 2026
ASIC has launched legal action against former Super Retail Group CEO Anthony Heraghty, alleging he failed to properly disclose a relationship with a senior executive and made misleading statements to the board and market. ASIC is seeking penalties and disqualification orders.
$190 million clawed back, billions more identified in ATO phoenixing crackdown – 21 September 2026
The ATO says its Phoenix Taskforce recovered $190 million in cash during the last financial year and identified more than $3.26 billion in liabilities associated with illegal phoenix activity, where businesses are deliberately closed and restarted to avoid debts.
Investor fears private credit mass exodus as ASIC cracks whip on lending standard – 23 September 2026
ASIC commissioner Simone Constant has fired a shot across the bow of Australian private credit, warning the clock is ticking on poor lending practices. Meanwhile, a private credit investor has told the ABC a contagion or run on funds in the industry remains “possible” should more investors worry about retrieving their money from funds.
KPMG still claiming privilege over 74 documents, ASIC says – 22 September 2026
KPMG is still claiming legal professional privilege over 74 documents that ASIC says it has not yet received, despite the parliamentary inquiry examining alleged misconduct at the firm. The documents include 68 of 1,579 independent-director materials and six engagement documents. KPMG says it is not withholding the information and is negotiating arrangements to provide relevant material to ASIC confidentially while maintaining privilege. ASIC is investigating allegations including the misuse of Lendlease and Optus confidential information, but says its inquiries are still ongoing.
Auditor-general airs concerns about AI-powered Medicare fraud – 23 September 2026
The Australian National Audit Office identified concerns that AI-powered billing software could be used to inflate Medicare claims. It identified eight potential fraud cases worth $5.2 million, highlighting an emerging integrity risk.
https://www.themandarin.com.au/320673-auditor-general-airs-concerns-about-ai-powered-medicare-fraud/
Quest Apartment Hotels tells customers to replace passports and licences after security breach – 23 September 2026
Quest Apartments and Hotels has revealed that a major data breach affected almost 2 million customers. Further investigation found that, in addition to names and contact details, passport and driver’s licence numbers, credit card numbers including CVVs, and other personal information were exposed. Quest is advising affected customers to contact the relevant authorities about replacing or flagging documents. However, the Australian Passport Office says Australian passports remain safe to use, even if the passport number was compromised.
Epworth HealthCare review triggered by Four Corners allegations backs private provider’s governance – 23 September 2026
An independent review into Epworth HealthCare’s governance, commissioned after allegations about gynaecologist Simon Gordon, found its clinical governance framework was “robust” and “detailed”, with no significant gaps identified. However, it made 21 recommendations, all accepted by Epworth, including stronger multidisciplinary review of procedures that could affect fertility, better handling of patient complaints, clearer understanding of the role of regulators such as AHPRA, and improved surgical data monitoring.
RBA pay dispute escalates to Fair Work Commission – 24 September 2026
The RBA’s pay dispute with staff has escalated to the Fair Work Commission, after negotiations over a new enterprise agreement stalled. The union is seeking higher pay increases and wants work-from-home arrangements formally protected in the agreement. The dispute could now move into formal mediation/conciliation through the Commission.
KPMG audit scandal expands into Westpac C-suite – 25 September 2026
The KPMG scandal is now drawing scrutiny around Westpac’s senior leadership, after former Westpac CFO and former KPMG partner Michael Rowland had a dinner with a senior KPMG figure during the period when KPMG was pursuing Westpac’s audit contract. The article examines questions about relationships between KPMG and Westpac executives and whether confidential client information was involved in the audit tender process. The matter is part of wider parliamentary and regulatory investigations into KPMG’s handling of confidential information.
Students accuse top college of deceptive conduct in class action over unaccredited degree – 25 September 2026
Students are suing the International College of Management Sydney (ICMS), alleging they were misled into believing its Bachelor of Property degree was professionally accredited by the Australian Property Institute when it was not. Some graduates say the lack of accreditation has limited their careers and forced them to undertake further study. ICMS says the accreditation claim on its website was an administrative error, denies the allegations and will defend the class action. About 10 students have joined so far, with more expected.
IBAC charges senior National Gallery of Victoria employee over alleged $8 million phone scheme – 24 September 2026
A former senior NGV employee has been charged by IBAC over an alleged scheme involving the unauthorised purchase of around $8 million worth of mobile phones over six years, which were allegedly sold for personal financial benefit. The NGV reported the matter to IBAC and Victoria Police in September 2025 and subsequently dismissed the employee. He faces seven theft charges and one charge of misconduct in public office and is due to appear in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 20 October 2026.
IBAC granted ‘follow the dollar’ powers on final sitting day of Victorian parliament – 24 September 2026
Victoria has passed legislation giving IBAC greater powers to investigate financial trails and pursue third parties connected to corruption and misconduct. The changes are intended to help investigators follow money beyond the public sector.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-24/victoria-ibac-granted-follow-the-money-powers/107192998
Investigation & Fraud News – Week ending 18 September 2026
ATO employee charged over alleged disclosure of information to organised crime groups – 11 September 2026
A 32-year-old former ATO employee has been charged with allegedly disclosing confidential government information to organised crime groups. The investigation was conducted jointly by the AFP, NACC and ATO. The employee has been suspended without pay and is due to face court later this month.
Former Logan Hospital manager sentenced for $545,000 fraud – 12 September 2026
Former Logan Hospital business manager Amy Buhse was sentenced to seven years in prison after being convicted of defrauding Queensland Health of more than $545,000 over six years. She manipulated hundreds of invoices to disguise personal purchases as legitimate business expenses and also made unauthorised corporate-card transactions.
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Jean Nassif reappears at NSW ICAC hearing via video link from Lebanon to give evidence – 15 September 2026
NSW ICAC is examining allegations that property developer Jean Nassif paid political operatives to achieve outcomes favourable to his developments. Nassif denied involvement in corrupt political activity, saying he hired consultants but was unaware if they engaged in wrongdoing.
Registered liquidator cancels registration after ASIC flags concerns – 15 September 2026
A registered liquidator, Ross Stephen Thomson, has cancelled his registration after ASIC raised concerns about whether he was fit and proper to remain registered and whether he had adequate resources to perform his duties. ASIC said its investigations identified concerns that he may not have faithfully performed his responsibilities. Earlier, AFSA had transferred 119 bankruptcy estates from Thomson to the Official Trustee after the Federal Court found failures in his administration. Thomson has not admitted to ASIC’s concerns.
Royal commission into Victorian construction sector corruption to open next week – 16 September 2026
The ABC reports that Victoria’s new Royal Commission into corruption and serious misconduct in the construction sector will hold its opening hearing next week. The inquiry will examine alleged corruption on major public infrastructure projects, the effectiveness of government oversight, and the involvement of construction companies, unions, labour-hire firms and organised crime. It is headed by former South Australian Chief Justice Christopher Kourakis, has a $50 million budget and is due to report to the Victorian Government by August 2027.
Workplace claim against country’s top-paid super CIO – 17 September 2026
The article reports that CSC, the $62 billion super fund for Australian public servants and military personnel, is facing a workplace claim alleging it breached laws protecting employees from retaliatory or adverse action. The claim involves its highly paid chief investment officer and raises questions about workplace conduct, governance and the treatment of employees within the fund.
KPMG consultant admits to ‘gaps’ in its whistleblower report – 17 September 2026
The report found significant gaps in KPMG’s handling of a whistleblower complaint, including missing records of key meetings and the inability to interview some important people, including the whistleblower. As a result, the investigators described some findings as strongly supported hypotheses rather than proven conclusions. The review criticised KPMG’s overly legalistic approach and recommended stronger whistleblower protections, including an independent integrity office and dedicated protection officer. ASIC is also investigating whether KPMG previously made false or misleading statements to the regulator.
Former Auditor faces 3 year suspension, receives $94k costs order – 17 September 2026
A former PKF Brisbane auditor, Cameron Bradley, has had his auditor registration suspended for three years until June 2028 and been ordered to pay $93,589 in ASIC costs after disciplinary findings relating to three 2023 managed investment scheme audits. The tribunal found he failed to obtain sufficient audit evidence, exercise appropriate professional scepticism and judgement, and maintain adequate audit documentation, particularly in relation to property assets forming more than 90% of the schemes’ assets.
Fenix Resources sues former director over alleged breach – 17 September 2026
Iron ore company Fenix Resources has launched Supreme Court proceedings against former executive director Craig Mitchell, alleging he breached his employment agreement in connection with a strategic document. The case raises issues around directors’ obligations, confidential information and corporate governance. The allegations remain to be determined by the court.
Investigation & Fraud News – Week ending 11 September 2026
ASIC examining hundreds of potential Big Four audit misconduct complaints – 4 September 2026
ASIC is reviewing 551 complaints of potential audit misconduct involving the Big Four accounting firms. The review includes allegations involving confidential information, whistleblower treatment and potentially misleading information provided to regulators, with KPMG facing particular scrutiny.
Melbourne broker linked to investigation into alleged $US600m trading fraud – 7 September 2026
A Melbourne-based foreign exchange broker has emerged in an international investigation into the collapse of Mars FX, an investment fund accused of losing or misappropriating around US$600 million. Australian regulators are assisting overseas authorities, although there is currently no suggestion the Melbourne broker was aware of wrongdoing.
Access to digital version of The Australian required to read article
Developer’s daughter pleads guilty to fraud after being ‘controlled’ by fugitive father – 7 September 2026
Ashlyn Nassif pleaded guilty to providing false or misleading information to help secure a $150 million Westpac construction loan. The court heard she submitted falsified documents and had been pressured by her father, property developer Jean Nassif. She received a six-month community corrections order.
Victorian IBAC reforms to expand corruption investigations – 8 September 2026
Victoria is proposing reforms to give IBAC broader powers to investigate corruption, including the ability to follow public money into private entities involved in government-funded projects. Critics have questioned why the reforms will not allow IBAC to reopen some previously dismissed or completed cases.
Access to digital version of The Australian required to read article
Labour hire boss charged after cross-border CFMEU raids – 9 September 2026
Three people have been arrested in Victoria following police raids linked to an investigation into alleged corruption and criminal activity involving the CFMEU. The cross-border operation targeted suspected links between union officials and organised crime, with authorities investigating allegations including bribery and money laundering.
Fair Work backs employer that fired worker over altered document – 9 September 2026
A Melbourne insurance brokerage was backed by the Fair Work Commission after dismissing an employee who altered a document she later submitted in her own employment claim. The employee removed the word “Senior” from an old letter, saying it was an inadvertent correction, but the employer considered it dishonest and dismissed her for serious misconduct. The Commission found the dismissal was not unfair, noting the employer had a genuine and reasonable belief that the conduct was serious and had properly investigated the matter before terminating her.
Prosecutors allege man used AI to ‘scrape’ court website, then asked ChatGPT for legal help – 10 September 2026
Sydney man Christopher Duff has pleaded not guilty to charges over the alleged unauthorised access of 8,769 restricted NSW court documents in 2025. Prosecutors allege he used ChatGPT to create code that bulk-downloaded the documents and later sought legal advice from the AI. The case could be an Australian first, with prosecutors seeking to use his ChatGPT conversations as evidence.
Aged care giant refunds $200,000 to residents over disputed living fees – 10 September 2026
An aged-care provider has agreed to refund around $200,000 to residents after concerns were raised about disputed living fees. The refunds follow a review of charges applied to residents, highlighting concerns about transparency and whether aged-care providers are correctly calculating and communicating fees to residents and their families.
Bankstown accounting firm staff accused of helping syndicate secure millions in fraudulent loans – 10 September 2026
Three employees of a Bankstown accounting firm, including its director, have been charged over their alleged involvement in a major fraud syndicate accused of using stolen identities and false financial documents to secure fraudulent loans. Police allege the three were linked to more than $46 million in fraudulent loans, as part of a wider $600 million scheme targeting banks and other financial institutions.
NDIS fraudster joins growing list of offenders – 11 September 2026
A NSW woman is facing sentencing after being convicted of defrauding the NDIS of $2.2 million through more than 1,000 false claims. Her case is one of a growing number of major NDIS fraud matters being pursued by the Fraud Fusion Taskforce.
Cybersecurity experts raise alarm after back-to-back data breaches – 11 September 2026
Cybersecurity experts in New Zealand are warning that a series of back-to-back data breaches highlights the growing vulnerability of organisations to cyberattacks. They say businesses need stronger security measures and better protection of sensitive customer information, as repeated breaches increase the risk of personal data being exposed or misused.
Investigation & Fraud News – Week ending 4 September 2026
Secret rail levy could be corruption under expanded definition, ex-IBAC chief Robert Redlich says – 31 August 2026
Former IBAC commissioner Robert Redlich said Victoria’s previously undisclosed Rail Improvement Charge could potentially fall within an expanded definition of corruption because of concerns surrounding secrecy, transparency and public trust. The levy was intended to raise billions of dollars for the Suburban Rail Loop and was reportedly developed and implemented without public disclosure before being exposed by the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office.
Victoria Police charge man over alleged $424,000 in fraud as part of secret commission investigation – 1 September 2026
Victoria Police charged a man with offences including obtaining financial advantage by deception and making and using false documents as part of Taskforce Hawk’s investigation into alleged secret commissions in Victoria’s construction industry. Police allege the man was involved in more than $424,000 in fraud. A second man was also charged with making a false document.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-01/victoria-police-taskforce-hawk-arrest/107102784
How Coles and NSW Police busted an Apple gift card tampering scam – 1 September 2026
The ABC reports on a gift-card tampering scam involving Coles, where Apple gift cards were manipulated before being purchased by customers, allowing criminals to steal the loaded funds. NSW Police identified and convicted a man linked to more than $10,000 worth of tampered cards, highlighting growing concerns about gift-card fraud and organised criminal activity in Australia.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-02/coles-nsw-police-apple-gift-card-tampering/107102712
Australian Federal Police raid home of former CFMEU official John Perkovic – 1 September 2026
The AFP raided the Melbourne home of former CFMEU organiser John Perkovic as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in Victoria’s construction industry. Perkovic, who worked for more than a decade in the union’s Victorian branch before being dismissed in October 2025, is linked to allegations detailed in a report provided to the Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU. The raid forms part of the broader investigation into alleged corrupt conduct within Victoria’s construction sector
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-02/afp-raid-melbourne-home-of-former-cfmeu-official/107105416
Property developer claimed ‘the premier is my best friend’ in tapped phone call, Icac hears – 3 September 2026
The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption heard further evidence concerning allegations that property developer Jean Nassif made prohibited political donations totalling $2 million in an attempt to influence political outcomes. The inquiry is examining the alleged involvement of Charles Perrottet and others, including whether payments and political activity were connected to efforts to benefit Nassif’s property interests. The article reports that former NSW premier Dominic Perrottet is not accused of wrongdoing, while the ICAC inquiry into the alleged arrangements continues.
Ex-KPMG executive sues firm after being sacked over audit scandal – 3 September 2026
KPMG Australia’s former chief operating officer Eileen Hoggett is suing the firm after being expelled from the partnership over her alleged involvement in the audit leak scandal. The case follows allegations that confidential client documents were improperly stored and used, prompting investigations and the departure of senior KPMG executives. Hoggett is seeking access to documents relating to her dismissal and disputes the circumstances surrounding her expulsion.
Coffs Harbour strata fraud accused Jessica Carah granted Supreme Court bail with home detention – 4 September 2026
Former property manager Jessica Carah, who faces 404 criminal charges, was granted bail with home detention by the NSW Supreme Court. The charges include 403 counts of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception and an allegation involving proceeds of crime exceeding $100,000. The allegations stem from an investigation into unauthorised transfers from dozens of strata accounts while she was employed in the property management sector. Carah has not yet entered pleas to the charges.
Former V/Line boss and cleaning company boss jailed for corruption – 4 September 2026
Former V/Line chief executive James Pinder and cleaning company owner George Haritos were jailed over a corruption scheme involving multimillion-dollar cleaning contracts for Melbourne’s train network. Pinder pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office after accepting secret payments, including money connected with the purchase of a $2.5 million home, while failing to disclose his relationship with Haritos when a major contract was awarded. Haritos was also sentenced for his role in the conspiracy and secret commissions.
Bendigo Bank scam victims lose combined $350k, concerns raised about security systems – 4 September 2026
This article examines cases involving customers who lost substantial amounts of money to an alleged Microsoft impersonation scam after being persuaded to provide scammers with remote access to their computers. The victims subsequently raised concerns about the bank’s fraud detection and response processes, particularly after other financial institutions reportedly issued warnings about suspicious transactions.
Stephen Cross pleads guilty to dating app deception scam – 4 September 2026
A Victorian man pleaded guilty to multiple charges of obtaining financial advantage by deception after allegedly using false identities and fabricated personal emergencies to obtain money from women he met through dating applications. The court heard that the offending involved deception over an extended period and caused significant financial and personal harm to several victims. The matter is due to proceed to sentencing.
ASIC probing whether KPMG misled regulator – 4 September 2026
Australia. The SMH reports that ASIC is investigating whether KPMG misled the regulator in relation to an audit matter. The investigation follows concerns about information provided by the accounting firm and adds to scrutiny of KPMG’s conduct and audit practices.
