Queensland women charged with early-release super scam

AFP issue warning as three women are accused of trying to steal from other people’s superannuation funds.

The arrests take to seven the number of people now charged by the AFP Taskforce for fraudulently trying to access super, since the federal government allowed early release of funds in the current COVID crisis. Picture: iStock

Three Queensland women have been charged with trying to steal $113,500 from other people’s superannuation funds under the federal government’s early release measure.

The Australian Federal Police anti-fraud taskforce arrested the women late last week following raids on five properties in southeast Queensland.

During the raids, numerous electronic devices were seized which police will allege were used by the women to submit a number of fake applications claiming to be other superannuation fund holders.

One of the women, aged 41, appeared in Southport Magistrates Court on Friday charged with conspiring to dishonestly obtain or deal in personal financial information and was refused bail.

Two others, aged 41 and 36, will appear in court at Southport and Pine Rivers next month charged with the same offence, which carries a maximum penalty of five years jail.

AFP deputy commissioner Brett Pointing said police were committed to identifying and prosecuting anyone who tried to exploit the system for their own greed, and to access money for which they were not eligible.

“Make no mistake. If you try to steal the nest eggs of hardworking Australians we will find you and charge you,” he said.

“The AFP works around the clock to disrupt and charge offenders who are defrauding the public.”

Deputy commissioner Pointing said the arrests were a timely reminder for people to make sure their personal financial details were secure.

“Don’t be an easy target for criminals,” he said.

The arrests take to seven the number of people now charged by the AFP Taskforce for fraudulently trying to access super, since the federal government allowed early release of funds in the current COVID crisis.