NSW council worker charged after alleged $1.3 million fraud

A former council worker has been charged after allegedly stealing almost $1.3 million from three different councils.

The 59-year-old man allegedly authorised and approved fake invoices for contractors whilst working in the Goulburn, Shoalhaven and Murrumbidgee areas in southern New South Wales.

He would then deposit the funds into bank accounts he controlled.

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It is alleged he stole $1,295,029.94 through this method.

The alleged fraud and corruption took place over 12 years, between 2012 and 2024.

It is not known what role the man held whilst working at each council.

Investigations by police into the fraud began in May 2024, and yesterday the 59-year-old man was arrested at Parramatta Police Station.

He was charged with 41 counts of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception.

The man was also hit with a charge of one count of holder of public office misconduct.

He was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Local Court today.

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