Fraud Awareness for Local Government Course (Australia)

When fraud comes to light, it is more likely to be detected by a tipoff from colleagues than by any other means..

Fraud exists in almost every workplace, including local government. It often goes undetected by employees. However, when fraud comes to light, it is more likely to be detected by a tip-off from colleagues than by any other means.

The cost fraud brings to an organisation is enormous and rising every year. A recent global study by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners found that in 2018 fraud resulted in over $9 billion in losses, with 22% of cases costing over $1 million. It is therefore crucial that staff in local government know how to recognise fraud and who to report it to.

Prevalent fraud not only costs local government bodies their reputation but it also carries large fines and penalties for the individuals involved in corrupt practices. For example, under Australian law, attempting to bribe a public official in order to obtain a personal benefit, carries a maximum fine of $2,100,000.

This course teaches staff and volunteers about the following:

• How to identify fraud in the workplace.
• The consequences of fraud for both the fraudster and the organisation.
• How to prevent fraud from occurring.
• How to report suspected fraud.