Tax Crimes Lawyers Melbourne

Most tax crime matters involving income tax, GST, or other ATO-administered obligations are Commonwealth offences prosecuted federally under the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) and the Taxation Administration Act 1953 (Cth). Prosecutions are typically brought under general dishonesty and deception provisions within the Criminal Code rather than under provisions specifically titled “tax fraud” or “tax evasion”.

Separately, the Victorian State Revenue Office administers state taxes – including duties, payroll tax, and land tax – under the Taxation Administration Act 1997 (Vic), which carries its own penalty regime for fraudulent evasion of state tax obligations.

Both tax fraud and tax evasion involve deliberate dishonesty to reduce or avoid tax. They are distinct from tax avoidance, which uses lawful strategies to minimise tax liability and is entirely legal. The line between the two can determine whether you face a civil penalty or a criminal prosecution.

Tax crime matters are complex, evidence-intensive, and often involve multiple agencies – the ATO, AFP, and CDPP may all be engaged before charges are formally laid. Early representation is not optional; it is essential.

At Slades & Parsons, we provide defence support across every stage of a tax crime matter:

• Strategic advice before you respond to the ATO or law enforcement
• Representation during ATO interviews and investigations, including where compulsory information-gathering powers are exercised
• Analysis of financial records and forensic accounting reports to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Negotiation with the ATO and CDPP to explore resolution or reduced charges where possible
• Voluntary disclosure guidance to minimise penalties before an investigation commences
• Courtroom advocacy in state and federal jurisdictions

We work with forensic accountants and financial experts to build technically robust defences, whether the matter involves a disputed audit, GST manipulation, or a complex multi-entity investigation.

Slades & Parsons is one of Melbourne’s leading criminal defence firms, with over 35 years of experience in white-collar crime, financial crime, and Commonwealth offence matters. We have acted across the full spectrum of tax crime cases – from early-stage ATO audit responses to complex CDPP prosecutions under federal law.

Our lawyers appear daily across the Magistrates’, County, and Supreme Courts, and have acted in matters that have proceeded to the Court of Appeal and the High Court of Australia. That depth of experience informs how we build a defence from day one, not just at trial.

We take a personalised approach to every client. Tax crime allegations carry serious professional and reputational consequences alongside the legal risk. Our team works with discretion and purpose – focused on protecting your position and achieving the best possible result.

Tax crime investigations rarely begin with formal charges – the process typically escalates gradually, and early decisions can significantly affect the outcome. Seek urgent legal advice if you have experienced any of the following:

• An unexpected ATO audit or request for financial records
• Contact from the AFP, forensic accountants, or other law enforcement
• A notice to attend a compulsory examination or record of interview
• Concerns that someone has made a disclosure to the ATO
• Awareness of irregularities in your tax affairs before any investigation has commenced

The last point is critical. Voluntary disclosure – proactively reporting issues before an investigation begins – can lead to substantially reduced penalties and, in some cases, avoid prosecution altogether.

If any of these apply to you, contact Slades & Parsons immediately on (03) 9602 3000. Our 24-hour helpline is available at any time.