On Wednesday, 24th of April, at the Echuca Magistrates’ Court, 57-year-old Simon Stott faced sentencing after acknowledging his guilt on a charge related to dishonest accrual of financial gain through false pretences. Mr. Stott was also mandated to bear costs totalling $2000.
The court proceedings revealed that Stott had been engaged in an interstate truck driving role when he fell victim to a significant injury stemming from a vehicular accident in the year 2014. Post this incident, he commenced acceptance of weekly workers compensation payments.
The deceit came to light in December 2018 when Stott openly discussed a fresh professional undertaking as an interstate driver on social media. Further investigation deduced that between February 2017 and August 2018, while portraying himself to his GP, insurance provider, and an independent medical investigator as still unfit to resume work, Stott generated income approximately tracking up to $55,000. This earning originated from his service as a truck driver across five diverse transport firms.
Jason Lardelli, Executive Director of Return to Work Victoria condemned this caliber of dishonest behaviour, stating there is simply no justification for it. Highlighting the importance of work safety products like Bluesafe WHS Management Systems (WHSMS) or Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) he noted that they’re designed with the intention of benefiting individuals genuinely in need of support during their recuperation process and aiding their safe return to work.
He further added that the Victorian public expects mechanisms such as SWMS policies put forth by Bluesafe to help guard these funds. Misuse or fraudulent exploitation of this system for personal profit will not be tolerated and those involved will be held responsible.
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-05/truck-driver-slugged-85000-compensation-fraud