Queensland man fined for providing false information during 2022 federal election

Brisbane, May 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Vivian Rakesh Lobo, a 42-year-old man from Queensland, has been fined $1000 for providing false information to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) during the 2022 Federal Election period. The sentencing took place in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on May 30, following Lobo's charge by summons on January 30, 2024.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) charged Lobo after an investigation prompted by a referral from the AEC. The referral raised concerns about false or misleading information regarding residential addresses provided by Lobo and his family during the election period. Lobo, who stood as a candidate in the 2022 Federal Election, admitted to knowingly providing false or misleading information, contrary to section 137.1(1) of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth), during his guilty plea on April 5, 2024.

In addition to the $1000 fine, Lobo was placed on a two-year good behaviour bond. During the sentencing, the court learned that Lobo submitted four forms to the commission with the Everton Park address, despite actually residing with his wife and family at a Newmarket Road home, which they purchased in 2017.