Fraud Control

What is fraud?

Fraud is an emotive term in any context and the workplace environment is no different. While it is not a matter that does, or should, preoccupy people throughout the working day, it is something that staff should be mindful of, as fraud represents a potential risk to the University. 

The University has adopted the following definition of fraud:

"Dishonestly obtaining or attempting to obtain a benefit or advantage for any person or dishonestly causing or attempting to cause a detriment to the University of Adelaide or its Controlled Entities".

Conduct that sits within the University's definition of fraud includes:

• Theft of cash or University property, equipment and software 
• Misuse of the corporate credit card
• Exaggerating or making fictitious accident, harassment or injury claims
• Falsifying time records
• Dishonest use of Intellectual Property
• Using University-paid travel for a private purpose
• Misuse of sick or family leave
• Knowingly creating or using forged or falsified documents
• Receiving or giving kickbacks or secret commissions to or from third parties

Fraud may be perpetrated by staff, by persons external to the University (e.g. contractors, consultants) or it may involve a combination of both. It can involve financial and non-financial incidents that have an impact upon the daily operations and the reputation of the University.

Instances of fraud that go undetected are often associated with a failure to recognise and respond to the early warning signs, or because of uncertainty as to how and when suspected fraudulent activity should be reported. The online Fraud Induction for new and existing staff will assist University personnel to improve their general fraud awareness and will hopefully lead to a deterring of fraudulent behaviour in the workplace.

Fraud Control Policy

The University takes the issue of fraud very seriously. The Fraud Control Policy and Fraud Control Plan are part of the University’s overall Risk Management Framework and are the foundation of the University's approach to addressing fraudulent activity. The Policy applies across the spectrum of the University’s learning, teaching, research and support activities, as well as to the University’s Controlled Entities.

The University has a zero tolerance approach to fraud and all instances of fraud will be investigated. Fraud against the University may constitute a criminal offence and give rise to a civil liability under various provisions of State and Commonwealth legislation. Fraud also constitutes serious misconduct under the University of Adelaide Collective Agreement.