Senior National Gallery of Victoria staffer stole $8m from workplace: IBAC

September 24, 2026 — 1:06pmA former senior National Gallery of Victoria employee has been charged by the state’s corruption watchdog after allegedly siphoning $8 million from the gallery over four years.The former employee allegedly bought $8 million worth of mobile phones using an NGV account, which he then sold for personal financial benefit.A senior NGV employee is accused of siphoning $8 million from the gallery for personal gain.He is also accused of using his position at the NGV to cover up the alleged conduct.The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) charged the ex-employee with seven counts of theft and one count of misconduct in public office.The corruption watchdog launched the investigation, dubbed Operation Sonder, in September 2025.The man is due to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on October 20.More to comeBe the first to know when major news happens. Sign up for breaking news alerts on email or turn on notifications in the app.Carla Jaeger is a journalist for The Age. Got a tip? Email carla.jaeger@theage.com.au or message carlajaeger.62 on Signal.Connect via X or email.From our partners