Federal police officers and officials from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) raided an insurance brokerage yesterday in connection with fraud allegations.

The raid took place at the head office of Griffiths Goodall in Shepparton, after directors of the firm were issued with a search warrant.

Director Ben Goodall says the company cooperated fully with the warrant and the firm is back to business as usual today.

“Our workforce at our Shepparton office were asked by authorities to leave the premises during the working day of 5 March,” he said.

“They have subsequently returned to normal work duties.

“Our company will provide a further update when we are in a position to do so. Until then no additional comment will be provided.”

A spokesman for ASIC told insuranceNEWS.com.au it cannot comment on the matter.

The company also has an office in South Melbourne, and lists 32 members of staff on its website including directors Joseph Goodall, John Griffiths, Ben Goodall, and Nathan Goodall.

It was established in 1989 and offers commercial, rural, fleet, motor, personal and life insurance.

The company’s full statement reads as follows:

“We can confirm that on Tuesday 5 March, officials from ASIC accompanied by Australian Federal Police, attended our Shepparton head office.

“Directors of our firm were issued with a search warrant at these premises.

“The details of the warrant included search and assistance relating to the conduct surrounding the creation, dissemination and material within insurance invoices issued to clients and the total amount of the premium noted on an invoice.

“The search included viewing copies of relevant invoices as well as associated advice provided around financial products.

“Griffiths Goodall is a long-standing and distinguished insurance broker that has professionally serviced regional and capital city clients since 1989.

“Griffiths Goodall Director, Ben Goodall, said the company had been fully cooperative with requests by ASIC officials to access past information, including digital and paper-based records located on-site.

“Our workforce at our Shepparton office were asked by authorities to leave the premises during the working day of 5 March. They have subsequently returned to normal work duties.

“Our company will provide a further update when we are in a position to do so. Until then no additional comment will be provided.”