Fake car salesman jailed for 3 years for GST scheme

A Queenslander has been sentenced in the Hervey Bay District Court to three years jail for GST fraud, claiming refunds he wasn’t entitled to.

Robert Hill registered a family partnership with his wife in 2010, describing the business activity as ‘cafes and restaurants’, but subsequently told auditors he was in the business buying and selling vehicles, the ATO said.

He also claimed to have received an inheritance that allowed him to spend over $2.4 million on expenses and purchases.

According to the ATO, Mr Hill’s business claimed over $228,328 in GST it wasn’t entitled to between 1 August 2011 and 28 February 2015. A comprehensive audit found there was no evidence of sales or purchases reported by the entity during this period to support these claims.

Acting assistant commissioner David Mendoza said it was astounding that people use tactics like this to cheat the tax system.

“Evading your tax obligations, or trying to get more than you’re entitled to, is a crime. We will not tolerate this behaviour,” Mr Mendoza said.

He added that if you’ve made an honest mistake or are falling behind on your obligations, the ATO will work with you to find a solution.

“But people who deliberately set out to cheat the tax system will be held to account,” Mr Mendoza said.