A Western Australian company director has been charged following an investigation into an allegedly false document lodged with the national corporate regulator.
John William Muir appeared in the Perth Magistrate’s Court on 23 January 2026 for the first mention of a charge under the Corporations Act 2001.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission alleges Mr Muir approved a form to deregister JW Tiling & Stone Pty Ltd on 12 July 2024 while serving as a director of the Perth-based wall and floor tiling business.
According to investigators, the form stated the company had no outstanding liabilities despite an unpaid debt exceeding $195,000 owed to a creditor.
ABN Australia’s Director of Secretarial, Ian Pelayo, said, “This is an important reminder that a company must have no outstanding liabilities at all before applying for deregistration with ASIC. This includes tax debts, trade creditors, loans, and any other obligations. All tax matters must be fully finalised, with no outstanding amounts owed to the ATO at the time of lodgement. Making a false declaration in a deregistration application can expose directors to serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.”
The matter was adjourned to 6 March 2026 to allow Mr Muir to seek legal advice, and the court granted bail on a $5,000 personal undertaking.
The case is being prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions. The alleged offence carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment if determined summarily in the Magistrates Court.
Last updated: 03rd Feb 2026
About the Author
Ro Elvinia is ABN Australia's Customer Success and Marketing Manager. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication, majoring in journalism, and also has an academic background in civil engineering. With over a decade of experience in professional writing and a background spanning journalism, Australian immigration, and business services, Ro brings a unique mix of communication and analytical expertise. She works closely with international clients and contributes to ABN Australia's content strategy, helping global businesses stay informed and confident as they navigate the Australian market.
Ro Elvinia
Customer Success and Marketing Manager