Income Protection Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Jail Time for Gym Owner Who Masterminded an Unusual Scam

Jail Time for Gym Owner Who Masterminded an Unusual Scam

Jail Time for Gym Owner Who Masterminded an Unusual Scam?w=400
An extraordinary case of insurance fraud has landed a Perth gym owner behind bars.
Karen Salkilld, who concocted a plan to fake her own death and scam an insurance company out of over $700,000, has been sentenced to three years in prison.

This month, Salkilld admitted guilt to charges of defrauding TAL, a major insurance firm. She submitted a fraudulent claim on February 7 through InsuranceLine, a TAL affiliate. The insurance policy had named a past romantic partner as the beneficiary.

The two were in a committed relationship for several years before parting ways last year. It's important to note that her former partner had no knowledge of or involvement in the fraudulent activity.

Salkilld had access to personal identification of her ex-partner, including a passport, using these details to execute her scheme. She asserted in her claim that she had died in an auto collision in Broome, WA, in December of the previous year.

To support her fabrication, she doctored a death certificate, coroner's court document, and an investigation record regarding the alleged demise.

In a meticulous move, she set up a financial account using her ex-partner's name at MyState Bank Tasmania, further posing as the ex-partner in the email exchange with the bank. The fraudulent insurance payment amounting to $718,963 was wired into this account on February 14. Salkilld then funneled this money to cover debts tied to her enterprises.

Her ruse unraveled when MyState Bank Tasmania flagged certain transactions as suspicious, prompting further scrutiny.

The court, quoting Judge Vicki Stewart, concluded, “The conclusion that your offending was motivated by greed is unavoidable.” She further added, “You were living beyond your means and overcommitted yourself. As the state prosecutor said...this money comes from a pool. Insurance premiums go up for everybody, and in that sense, it really is an offence against the community.” A restitution directive was issued, calling for the seized funds to be remitted to TAL.

The significant impact of such fraudulent actions on community insurance rates highlights the broader consequences of financial crimes. Salkilld's case reminds us of the integrity expectations placed on individuals within the financial ecosystem.

The coverage and statements related to this case have been adapted from details reported by Insurance News Magazine.

Published:Thursday, 31st Oct 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Missed Insurance Coverage Turns Costly for Long-Time Client Missed Insurance Coverage Turns Costly for Long-Time Client
09 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

In a challenging outcome for a long-standing customer, a car owner has faced rejection in his bid for damage compensation after it was established that his insurance coverage had been terminated over five years before the incident. - read more
Driving App in Focus: Safer Roads Through Tech-Savvy Incentives Driving App in Focus: Safer Roads Through Tech-Savvy Incentives
09 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

Technology is reshaping how we approach road safety, and AAMI, a subsidiary of Suncorp, has taken a significant leap with its driver-focused rewards program. The initiative has reportedly succeeded in fostering better driving habits among participants. - read more
Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults
06 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

Recent findings highlight a significant trend: an increase in Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims among 30- to 40-year-olds, with mental health as a key factor. Over the past decade, these claims have soared, the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reports. - read more
Bakery Blaze Sparks Allegations of Insurance Fraud Bakery Blaze Sparks Allegations of Insurance Fraud
05 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

A bakery owner in Western Australia has been engulfed in controversy following accusations of deliberately setting her business premises on fire. Officials allege this was an attempt to secure a hefty insurance payout. - read more
Heat Claims Denied: Insurer Cites 'Oven Effect' in Container Dispute Heat Claims Denied: Insurer Cites 'Oven Effect' in Container Dispute
05 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

A local business operator suffering significant heat damage to pool covers stored within shipping containers has experienced a setback, as a recent ruling favored the insurer's interpretation of their policy terms. The implications of this decision represent a crucial discussion point for businesses storing items prone to temperature sensitivity. - read more
Life Insurance Takes Backseat in Cost-Cutting Measures Life Insurance Takes Backseat in Cost-Cutting Measures
03 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

As Australians tighten their belts in the face of rising living costs, life insurance is rapidly being placed on the chopping block. The Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reports that individuals are more likely to reduce life cover rather than home or car insurance. - read more



Life Insurance Articles

The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies The Myth of Unaffordability: How to Find Value in Income Insurance Policies
Income protection insurance is often surrounded by the myth of being unaffordable, deterring many Australians from safeguarding their most valuable asset—their ability to earn. This introduction aims to address this misconception head on, revealing the real value that income insurance policies can provide. It is crucial to understand that the cost of such a policy pales in comparison to the potential financial hardship faced without one. - read more
Breaking Down the Barriers: Understanding Income Protection for Self-Employed Aussies Breaking Down the Barriers: Understanding Income Protection for Self-Employed Aussies
Hello to all the self-employed Aussies out there! Embarking on the journey of self-employment brings with it a unique set of challenges and freedoms. One area we often overlook is the need for a solid financial safety net, customized to our varied incomes and work lifecycles. That's where income protection insurance steps in as a critical component for ensuring financial stability. - read more
Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia
Income protection insurance is a crucial safeguard for many Australians, designed to provide financial stability in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury. This type of insurance delivers a regular income, usually up to a certain percentage of your regular earnings, ensuring that you can meet your financial obligations even when your health prevents you from earning a wage. - read more
Avoiding Overinsurance: How to Choose Adequate Coverage Without Wasting Money Avoiding Overinsurance: How to Choose Adequate Coverage Without Wasting Money
Income protection insurance is a key component of financial planning that safeguards your earning potential in the untimely event of illness or injury. In Australia, it reassures individuals that their most valuable asset, the ability to earn, is shielded against unforeseen circumstances. Adequate income protection can provide peace of mind, with the security of a regular income even when you're unable to work. - read more
Maximizing Your Income Protection Payout: Tips and Strategies Maximizing Your Income Protection Payout: Tips and Strategies
In the realm of personal finance, security is a cornerstone that cannot be overlooked, and this is where income protection insurance steps in. For Australians, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're covered against loss of income due to illness or injury is invaluable. This form of coverage acts as a financial safety net, ensuring that life's unexpected twists do not leave you in a lurch. - read more
Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs Self-Employed? Here's How to Determine Your Income Insurance Coverage Needs
In recent times, the allure of being your own boss has led to a significant shift towards self-employment in Australia. This growing trend reflects a desire for greater flexibility and autonomy in one's career. However, amidst this independence lie uncertainties and financial risks unique to those who venture out on their own. - read more
Dispelling the Myths: Why Income Protection is More Accessible Than You Think Dispelling the Myths: Why Income Protection is More Accessible Than You Think
Income protection insurance serves as a financial safety net, designed to support individuals in the event that they are unable to work due to illness or injury. The significance of this type of insurance lies in its ability to provide a continuation of income during tough times, ensuring that one's financial responsibilities are taken care of. - read more
Breaking Down the Barriers: Understanding Income Protection for Self-Employed Aussies Breaking Down the Barriers: Understanding Income Protection for Self-Employed Aussies
Hello to all the self-employed Aussies out there! Embarking on the journey of self-employment brings with it a unique set of challenges and freedoms. One area we often overlook is the need for a solid financial safety net, customized to our varied incomes and work lifecycles. That's where income protection insurance steps in as a critical component for ensuring financial stability. - read more
Benefit and Wailting Periods: Choosing the Right Combination for Maximum Protection and Value Benefit and Wailting Periods: Choosing the Right Combination for Maximum Protection and Value
In Australia, income protection insurance stands as a vital safeguard for professionals, ensuring security during times of unexpected illness or injury. It acts as a financial buffer, providing a percentage of your regular income, so you can maintain your lifestyle without the stress of lost earnings. - read more
Making Sense of Income Protection Insurance: A Must-Read Comparison for Australians Making Sense of Income Protection Insurance: A Must-Read Comparison for Australians
When life throws unexpected challenges our way, the assurance of financial stability can be a beacon of hope amidst the uncertainty. For many Australians, income protection insurance is that beacon, safeguarding their livelihood and providing a crucial safety net when they need it most. It's more than just a policy; it's a strategic step towards longer-term peace of mind. - read more
Avoiding Overinsurance: How to Choose Adequate Coverage Without Wasting Money Avoiding Overinsurance: How to Choose Adequate Coverage Without Wasting Money
Income protection insurance is a key component of financial planning that safeguards your earning potential in the untimely event of illness or injury. In Australia, it reassures individuals that their most valuable asset, the ability to earn, is shielded against unforeseen circumstances. Adequate income protection can provide peace of mind, with the security of a regular income even when you're unable to work. - read more
Important Tips to Streamline Your Income Protection Claim in Australia Important Tips to Streamline Your Income Protection Claim in Australia
In today's unpredictable world, securing your financial future is more important than ever. Income protection insurance plays a pivotal role for working Australians by providing a safety net in case illness or injury prevents you from earning an income. As an essential part of your overall financial planning, understanding income protection is crucial for peace of mind and stability. - read more

Start Here !
disability protection
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Monthly Income Benefit:
Your Postcode:
All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Insurance broker:
An agent acting on behalf of the insured (not the insurance company) who negotiates the terms and cover provided by the insurer in the insurance policy.