Fraud and corruption
Our definition of fraud
A benefit is not restricted to a financial or material benefit, and may be tangible or intangible, including information. A benefit may also be obtained by a third party.
Examples of fraud can include (but are not limited to):
- theft or misuse of Commonwealth information, intellectual property, or confidential information
- misuse of Commonwealth program funding and grants
- misuse of property, equipment, goods, or services
- providing false or misleading information to the Commonwealth or failing to provide information where there is an obligation to do so
- making or using false, forged, or falsified documents
- unlawful use of Commonwealth computers, vehicles, telephones and other property or services.
Our definition of corruption
Examples of corruption can include:
- abuse of official position in order to obtain a benefit for oneself or another
- collusion between a Commonwealth official and a contractor
- bribery (domestic or foreign)
- one or more individuals manipulating a procurement process for personal gain
- preferential treatment of family members (nepotism)
- preferential treatment of friends and associates (cronyism)
- acting (or failing to act) on a conflict of interest
- unlawful disclosure of official or commercially sensitive information
How to report suspected fraud and/or corruption
Our department takes all allegations of fraud and/or corruption seriously.
To report suspected fraud and/or corruption, either:
- call our Fraud Hotline 1800 054 312 (messages can be left after hours)
- email Fraud@dss.gov.au
- write to:
The Branch Manager
Audit and Assurance Branch
Department of Social Services
GPO Box 9820
Canberra ACT 2601
All employees or members of the public can also report suspected or potential corruption instances to the National Anti‑Corruption Commission(Opens in a new tab/window) (NACC). To report to NACC, either:
- complete the online NACC corruption reporting form(Opens in a new tab/window)
- call 1300 489 844
Note that where potential or suspected corruption is identified by the department, it will be handled in accordance with legislative obligations to the NACC.
What information to provide in your report
To assist us assess your referral, it is helpful if you can provide details on:
- who is suspected
- what is suspected
- where and when the incident/s occurred
- any other supporting information you might hold.
What happens when you report suspected fraud
If you report suspected fraud or corruption, your privacy and confidentiality will be respected. You can also choose to report anonymously.
After submitting your report, one of our officers may contact you to seek additional information to allow us to assess the allegation. Our department will take appropriate action in accordance with our processes. This may include a criminal investigation, a compliance activity and/or a debt recovery process.
Our department is unable to provide any updates on fraud matters referred to us due to privacy restrictions.