Former IT head charged over $8m phone fraud at art gallery

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 05:02 · Archive

The former IT head of the National Gallery of Victoria has been charged over an alleged $8m fraud involving mobile phones.

James Michael Hosking, former IT head at Australia's oldest art gallery, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Tuesday for a brief administrative hearing. He was charged with seven counts of theft and one count of misconduct in public office following a year-long investigation by Victoria's Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission, codenamed Operation Sonder.

IBAC alleged that about $8m worth of mobile phones were purchased by the National Gallery of Victoria between 2019 and 2025 and then sold for personal benefit. Hosking is also accused of misusing his position at the gallery to conceal the alleged conduct. He did not respond to questions as he appeared in court.

Deputy chief magistrate Tim Bourke released Hosking on bail under conditions including surrendering his passport and not leaving the country. He will return to court on 22 January.

How it is being reported

• Former IT head James Hosking accused of $8m phone fraud at National Gallery of VictoriaA senior employee at Australia’s oldest art gallery has faced court accused of theft and misconduct after an alleged $8m fraud at the institution.The West Australian · 20 Oct, 04:44
• Former IT head James Hosking accused of $8m phone fraud at National Gallery of VictoriaA senior employee at Australia’s oldest art gallery has faced court accused of theft and misconduct after an alleged $8m fraud at the institution.Perth Now · 20 Oct, 04:44

In this story: James Michael Hosking · National Gallery of Victoria · Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission · Melbourne

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