James Kwok, of Hope Island, Queensland, has pleaded guilty to managing a corporation while disqualified.

Appearing before Brisbane Magistrates Court on 19 March 2015, Mr Kwok pleaded guilty to managing Pacific Energy International Pty Ltd, between 22 March 2010 and 17 July 2012, despite being disqualified due to a 2006 criminal conviction for dishonestly using his position as a director.

Mr Kwok was charged in 2014 with two counts of managing a corporation while disqualified (refer: 14-178MR). Mr Kwok pleaded guilty to one of those counts and the other charge was withdrawn.

The matter has been adjourned for a sentencing hearing on 4 May 2015.

The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions is prosecuting the matter.

Background

Mr Kwok faces a maximum penalty of 12 months imprisonment and/or fine of $5,500.

The law provides for scenarios where a person becomes automatically disqualified from managing companies for five years as a result of a criminal conviction. The ban applies either after the day of the conviction (if there is no jail term) or five years after being released from jail.