Former employee accused of stealing $8 million from the National Gallery of Victoria

A former National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) employee has been caught allegedly swindling an estimated $8 million from the famous Melbourne art gallery and museum.

The senior NGV staffer has been charged with seven counts of theft and one count of misconduct in public office following a year-long investigation by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC).

It is alleged he bought $8 million worth mobile phones under an NGV account, which he then sold for “personal financial benefit”.

IBAC will allege the thefts took place between September 2019 and September 2025.

The watchdog will also allege in court that former employee misused their position at the NGV to conceal the alleged wrongdoing.

He is expected to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on October 20.

IBAC launched the anti-corruption investigation, nicknamed Operation Sonder, in September 2025.

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In a statement to nine.com.au, an NGV spokesperson confirmed the accused’s employment was terminated after the matter was reported to police.

“The NGV was the subject of a financial fraud involving an individual employee,” the spokesperson said.

“The individual has been charged with making unauthorised purchases of mobile phones for their own personal gain.

“The NGV worked with IBAC while they undertook an investigation. While the matter remains before court no further information will be provided.”

The NGV said it has since implemented new measures to protect its systems against potential fraud.