Forgery and False Document Offences
Forgery and false document offences cover a wide range of conduct in Australia, including altering documents, creating false records or using documents that are not genuine. Many people want clarity about how these offences are assessed, what evidence may be relevant and how intent is considered.
This page outlines the general issues that may arise and explains how Law Tram provides a secure and obligation-free way to connect with licensed Australian lawyers who can discuss your circumstances confidentially.
Charged with using or making a false document?
Forgery and related offences involve making, using or possessing a false document with the intent to deceive. These charges can apply to a wide range of situations, from faking a medical certificate to using false payslips, fake IDs, altered invoices, or forged signatures.
You do not need to profit from the deception or cause financial loss to be charged. Even minor or one-off incidents can lead to criminal convictions with long-term consequences for employment, visas, or professional licensing.
Law Tram connects you with lawyers who can explain your legal position, negotiate with police or prosecutors, and work toward an outcome that protects your future.
Law Tram's Legal Partners can assist with forgery and false document offences, including:
- Creating or using fake payslips, letters, or bank statements
- Submitting false information for loan or rental applications
- Forged medical certificates or employment records
- Fake ID cards or identity documents
- False declarations, affidavits or statutory declarations
- Possessing tools or software used to create false documents
- Charges under state laws or the Criminal Code (Cth)
- Negotiating non-conviction outcomes where appropriate
Why choose Law Tram
- Connect with lawyers who understand false document offences
- Confidential platform to outline your situation
- Guidance on what information or documents may be relevant
- No obligation to engage any lawyer you speak with
- Lawyers help you understand the legal considerations involved
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Legal information only – not a substitute for advice
This page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. Criminal charges can carry serious penalties and strict time limits. You should seek advice from an Australian Legal Practitioner as early as possible, especially before speaking to police or attending court.
Law Tram does not provide emergency legal support or crisis response services and does not assist in finding legal representation for minors.
Take the first step toward resolution
Law Tram offers a secure, efficient and supportive way to connect with lawyers who understand the legal issues involved in forgery and false document offences. Whether your matter involves concerns about altered records, misunderstandings about document authenticity or questions about how intent is assessed, our platform helps you access tailored legal guidance before you decide how to proceed.
Take the first step with clarity and peace of mind by starting your free online consultation with Law Tram now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Forgery typically means making or altering a document with the intent to mislead or deceive, even if no one actually relied on it.
Yes — if you knowingly used it or were involved in the process, you can still be held criminally responsible.
Yes. Benefit is not required — intent to deceive is usually enough.
That depends on the circumstances. First-time and low-level matters may be eligible for diversion or a non-conviction bond.
Possibly. Forgery convictions can affect licensing, employment, visas, and international travel. Legal advice can help minimise the risk.
Copies of the documents involved, emails, timelines, workplace policies and any notes about how the document was created or used can assist a lawyer in explaining the general issues that may arise.
Yes. A lawyer can outline the general processes used to examine documents, including digital metadata, handwriting, formatting and supporting evidence.
Yes. A lawyer can explain how different document-related offences may be connected and what considerations may be relevant in your circumstances.