Dishonesty Offences
Theft and deception offences in Victoria are governed by the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic), which outlines a range of crimes involving dishonest conduct, fraud, and the unlawful acquisition of property or financial advantage.
At Rebecca Burdon Legal, we are experienced Melbourne criminal defence lawyers who understand the complexities of property and deception charges. We work closely with our clients to achieve the best possible outcome in each case.
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Below is an overview of key offences under the Crimes Act:
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Section 74 – Theft: Theft is defined as dishonestly taking property that belongs to another person with the intention of permanently depriving them of it. This offence can include shoplifting, employee theft, or stealing personal property. The maximum penalty is 10 years imprisonment.
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Section 81 – Obtaining Property by Deception: This offence involves using deceit or dishonesty to obtain property that belongs to another person. It typically arises in situations involving false representations, scams, or fraudulent transactions. The maximum penalty is 10 years imprisonment.
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Section 82 – Obtaining Financial Advantage by Deception: This offence occurs when a person dishonestly obtains a financial benefit—either for themselves or someone else—through misleading or deceptive conduct. Common examples include fraudulent Centrelink claims, fake job applications, or deceptive banking activity. A conviction can carry up to 10 years imprisonment.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Protecting Your Rights in Dishonesty Offence Cases
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If you're facing charges related to theft or deception, or require legal guidance in navigating these complex offences, our experienced team at Rebecca Burdon Legal & Consulting is here to support you. Contact us today to discuss your case and ensure you receive trusted legal representation. ​Fraud encompasses various offences involving deceit and dishonesty, including:
Falsification of Documents
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Falsification of Documents is an offence under Section 83 of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic).
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It involves making, using, or possessing a false document with the intent to deceive. This may include creating fake contracts, identification documents, or financial records.
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A person may be found guilty if they knowingly engage in this conduct and intend for the document to be accepted as genuine to gain a benefit or cause a loss.
False Accounting
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False Accounting is outlined in Section 83A of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic).
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This offence involves dishonestly falsifying or omitting entries in financial records with the intent to deceive or defraud. It may occur within a business, organisation, or individual setting, and often relates to misleading financial reporting, concealing theft, or inflating expenses to claim money dishonestly.
Possession of Equipment for Making False Documents
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Under Section 84 of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic), it is a criminal offence to possess equipment, materials, or software for the purpose of making false documents.
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This may include items such as counterfeit templates, blank identity cards, or tools for document alteration. A person can be charged if it is proven they had the intent to use—or allow others to use—the equipment to produce fraudulent documentation.
Penalties for Dishonesty Offences in Victoria
Dishonesty offences carry serious consequences under the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic). Penalties depend on the nature and severity of the offence, the circumstances surrounding the conduct, and whether the accused has a prior criminal record.
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Common Penalties for Dishonesty Offences
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Imprisonment
Theft, deception, and fraud offences can result in significant terms of imprisonment. For example, theft and obtaining property or financial advantage by deception carry maximum penalties of up to 10 years, while offences such as false accounting or falsification of documents can attract maximum sentences of up to 15 years imprisonment.
Reasons Why You Need a Criminal Defence Lawyer Melbourne
Dishonesty offences in Victoria—such as theft, deception, and fraud—are treated seriously by the legal system. If you are facing charges of this nature, seeking legal advice is critical. At Rebecca Burdon Legal & Consulting, our experienced team can guide you through the legal process and work towards achieving the best possible outcome.
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You need a specific skill set to navigate complex dishonesty matters. Our legal practitioners have the experience and insight to assist you from start to finish—whether you’ve been charged with theft, obtaining property by deception, false accounting or related offences.
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Having a trusted criminal defence lawyer in Melbourne who understands how dishonesty cases are prosecuted—and who has strong professional relationships within the criminal justice system across metropolitan and regional Victoria—can make all the difference.
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Our approach is centred on examining the strength of the evidence, identifying any legal issues, and advising you on all available defences. We are committed to protecting your rights and giving you the clarity you need at every stage of your matter. Our lawyers appear in all criminal courts throughout Victoria.
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We also provide personalised advice on the potential long-term impacts of a dishonesty conviction. Whether you’re considering resolving a matter early or disputing the charges in court, we’ll help you weigh the consequences. A criminal conviction can affect your job prospects, ability to travel, and even your visa or migration status. That’s why our focus is on securing outcomes that protect your future.
Assessing Melbourne Criminal Law Firms? Why Choose Us?
Your rights and interests are our priority. Everyone should have access to justice and high-quality legal services. Our Melbourne criminal law firm works hard, advocating in your best interest even when there is a strong prosecution case against you. We work hard to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Reach out to us for a free consultation.
For further information on some of the frequent types of crimes and charges we deal with include:
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Violent crime - offences against the person
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Dishonesty offences - Theft, fraud and Deception
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