NDIS provider jailed for defrauding over $400,000

Paul Kevan Tilbury, a disability support provider, has been sentenced to three years in jail for fraud. The 58-year-old falsely claimed over $400,000 from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) between 2017 and 2019. He used the money to fund personal expenses like travel, meals, and luxury items instead of helping those in need. Tilbury, who was the CEO of People Come First, made claims for support services that were either exaggerated or completely false. Judge Paul Muscat stated that Tilbury's actions deprived vulnerable clients of necessary assistance. These clients had various disabilities, including autism and cerebral palsy. During the court session, it was revealed that Tilbury spent the stolen money on items such as jewelry, a home bar, and meals in upscale restaurants. While he did repay a small portion of the funds, he still owes over $215,000. Judge Muscat emphasized the serious impact of Tilbury's actions on the NDIS participants. He noted that Tilbury had even applied for NDIS funding for his own health issues after committing fraud against others. Tilbury's sentence includes at least one year and nine months in prison, followed by a two-year good-behavior bond upon release. The Australian government has stated that they are committed to cracking down on fraud in the NDIS. In the last year alone, thousands of reports of potential fraud have been made to the agency.