Templestowe man ordered to repay TAC

11 Apr 2013

A Templestowe man has been ordered to pay more than $47,000 to the Transport Accident Commission, after failing to declare income from employment while receiving TAC benefits.

Michael O’Han pleaded guilty in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 4 April 2013 to three charges relating to fraud, where he obtained the sum of $57,737.76 in income replacement benefits to which he was not entitled.

On 10 April 2013, Magistrate Lance Martin convicted Mr. O’Han and handed the 50-year-old an 8-month prison sentence, wholly suspended for 18 months. Mr O’Han was ordered to pay $47,381.76 in compensation and $1000.00 in legal costs.

Mr O’Han was injured in a crash in January 2010. The TAC accepted his claim for compensation, including providing Loss of Earnings benefits. Mr O’Han was advised to notify the TAC if he returned to work.

Mr O’Han allegedly advised a company accountant not to draw him a wage from the company. Instead, he used the company accounts directly for his personal purchases and expenses which included a Ferrari during the charge period.

Mr. O’Han’s has now reached an agreement with the TAC to pay off the debt.

Transport accident premiums are used to pay for treatment and support services for people injured in transport accidents.

The TAC has a responsibility to the community to ensure the financial viability of the TAC scheme so that it can continue to look after injured Victorians.

For further information please contact: Nick Price on 5225 7738.