Audio-visual business fined $24,000 for failing to provide documents
15 May 2024•BlueSafe Team•Source: WorkSafe QLD
A South-East Queensland audio-visual business has been fined $24,000 after pleading guilty to failing to provide documents sought in a suspected workers’ compensation fraud investigation. It was also ordered to pay $4,500 in costs to the Workers’ Compensation Regulator.
A workers’ compensation investigator believed the business held information that could assist an investigation into suspected workers’ compensation fraud. Using powers under the legislation, the investigator issued a formal notice requiring the business to provide documents.
The business did not supply the documents, despite receiving multiple extensions. It pleaded guilty to failing to meet the requirement.
During sentencing, the Magistrate highlighted the importance of inspectors and investigators being able to carry out their legislative roles. He noted that they have the authority and powers to seek reasonable information without being hindered.
The Magistrate accepted the Prosecutor’s submissions that recipients should comply with such requirements in the first instance, and that doing so supports public confidence in the workers’ compensation scheme.
The Magistrate described the fine as an important deterrent against other businesses evading legislative requirements. No conviction was recorded.
Executive Director, Workers’ Compensation Regulatory Services, Janene Hillhouse said: "This outcome sends a strong message that lawful requirements issued by WCRS investigators cannot be ignored."
Hillhouse also said: "The outcome of this case should serve as a serious deterrent for businesses that choose not to comply with notices issued by investigators."
How Blue Safe can help: Our free WHS self-check can help you review your business’s broader approach to workplace health and safety and identify areas for closer attention. Take the free WHS self-check