Queensland NDIS fraud probe sees millions in assets restrained and seized by authorities
The multi-agency crackdown on alleged NDIS fraud has seen investigators seize cash, precious metals and cryptocurrency assets across Queensland as part of a sweeping criminal investigation into a suspected fraud syndicate.
The Australian Government Fraud Intervention Task Force (FFT) has seized $176,000 in cash, silver and gold after executing five search warrants in Queensland as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into a fraud organisation.
The joint investigation, codenamed Operation Benz, began in October 2025 after the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) identified a participant who allegedly made National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) claims for supports and services that were not provided.
The FFT-led investigation found these allegations were allegedly facilitated through an illegitimate NDIS provider business established by and under the participant’s control.
Investigations led to apparent FFT police activity at five commercial and residential properties in Far North Queensland, Cairns and Brisbane last month.
During the search warrants, FFT investigators found $94,000 in cash, gold and silver coins estimated to be worth more than $82,000, as well as a cryptocurrency wallet, allegedly the proceeds of crime.
Investigators also seized electronic devices and documents and accessed cloud-based data.
The warrants follow a restrictive action taken by the Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission (QCCC) in relation to approximately $5.02 million in gold, silver and funds allegedly obtained by the syndicate.
The QCCC is currently conducting a forfeiture investigation as it seeks to recover assets allegedly obtained criminally.
At this stage no charges have been laid and investigations are ongoing.
AFP Acting Commander Timothy Underhill said AFP and FFT partners were committed to protecting the integrity of vital support services for those who need them most.
“Agencies across the Commonwealth are working together to deliver and protect government measures that support society and stop criminal groups and individuals seeking to defraud services of vulnerable members of society,” Mr Underhill said.
“This includes creating a hostile environment for criminals by eliminating profits from fraudulent activities.”
An NDIA spokesperson said that when suspicious activity is detected the NDIA takes swift action alongside FFT partners to investigate and respond.
“We strengthen our security measures every day, including advanced monitoring and payment controls, to prevent, detect and block criminal behavior targeting the program,” the spokesperson said.
“The NDIS exists to support Australians with significant and permanent disabilities to access the services they need; every action we take is aimed at protecting the NDIS for those who rely on it today and for generations to come.”
