What is Fraud?

The University has a Theft, Fraud and Corrupt Conduct policy.

Link here to the University's Fraud and Corrupt Conduct Policy

The policy includes the following definition of theft, fraud and corrupt conduct.

Definitions

Fraud includes theft, criminal deception; making false representations to gain an unjust advantage; and abuse of University property or time.

Theft is the dishonest appropriation of the University's property with intent to deprive the University of it permanently.

Corrupt conduct includes improper use of influence or position and/or improper use of information or other improper acts or omissions of a similar nature.

Examples

Examples of some activities covered under these definitions are:

• taking inducements to mark a student assessment more favourably or award a contract for the provision of goods or services;
• misuse of one's position to gain an unfair or unjust advantage;
• misuse or abuse of telephone, fax, computers, and other equipment to run a private business, whether for profit or not-for-profit;
• operation of a private business using University facilities and time;
• misuse of corporate credit card;
• misuse of petty cash;
• unauthorised removal of equipment, parts, software, and office supplies from University premises;
• submission of fraudulent purchase orders;
• submission of fraudulent applications for reimbursement;
• submission of exaggerated or wholly fictitious accident, harassment or injury claims;
• misuse of sick or family leave;
• using University-paid travel, ostensibly for business, but, in fact, where the principal purpose is private;
• falsification of time records; and
• damage, destruction or falsification of documents.