A West Hoxton man, who continued working while receiving Workers Compensation payments, has been ordered to repay $15,589 in restitution to WorkCover NSW and fined $2,400.
NSW Chief Industrial Magistrate G.J. Hart ordered Peter Carl Nelson to repay the restitution and fine, as well as costs, within 28 days.
Mr Nelson, who pleaded guilty, was charged under Section 178BA of the Crimes Act 1900 of obtaining money by deception, which carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.
Mr Nelson presented medical certificates to his NSW workers compensation insurer in order to claim the money, between 28 February and 6 November 2005, while working as a contract cleaner.
WorkCover NSW CEO Jon Blackwell commented: “Anyone who defrauds the Workers Compensation Scheme hurts every worker by adding to the costs of running the scheme.
“This case sends a warning to anyone who may believe that they can defraud the scheme and escape detection,” said Mr Blackwell.
Media contact: John Kirby Senior Media Officer (02) 4321 5474 or 0413 186 799