Malcolm John Lockhart pleaded guilty in the Launceston Magistrates Court on Monday to 13 counts of stealing and one count of false reporting to police. 

The court heard Lockhart – who managed the Beauty Point store which included a newsagent and Australia Post licence – had taken money from the Australia Post float over a period of about 12 months.

At the store, an Australia Post-owned float of $4000 was located, so customers could withdraw money. 

On July 12 Lockhart phoned Tasmania Police to report a robbery.

He told police a man wearing a balaclava had entered the store and demanded money.

Lockhart told police he handed over $8000 to the supposed thief.

Police later attended Lockhart’s home and located $3750 in a box.

Lockhart’s lawyer Evan Hughes admitted his client had been taking money from the $4000 Australia Post float over a period of 12 months.

Mr Hughes said the money was taken to for expenses such as vehicle repairs, registration and store costs. 

The court heard the money was taken after the shop – a family business – began to financially struggle. 

Mr Hughes said it was “never his intention to keep the money”, but with regular audits of the float by Australia Post, it “was going to become apparent the business was missing cash”.

Magistrate Sharon Cure heard the 43-year-old man was a well-respected member of the Beauty Point community.

Mr Hughes said Lockhart was fortunate police did not believe the robbery.

“He could be before the Supreme Court for perversion of justice,” Mr Hughes said. 

Mr Hughes said Lockhart had repaid “significant amounts” of the cash. 

Ms Cure adjourned the matter for sentencing on October 3.