Federal police have thrown out an investigation into claims that historian and author Bruce Pascoe financially benefited by falsely claiming to be Aboriginal.

The complaint was lodged by Aboriginal businesswoman and lawyer Josephine Cashman, who has been vocal in her accusations that Professor Pascoe, author of acclaimed book Dark Emu, fabricated his heritage to score government grants, university appointments and literary prizes awarded to Aboriginal people.

Bruce Pascoe at his property in Gipsy Point last week. Credit:Rachel Mounsey

But in a letter to Ms Cashman, made public on Thursday, the AFP said the matter had been closed.

"Based on the information provided and inquiries undertaken no Commonwealth offences have been identified," the letter said.