The founder of RAMS Home Loans, John Kinghorn, 76, has been charged with fraud offences after allegedly avoiding taxes worth more than $30 million.

Key points: RAMS Home Loans is one of the country's biggest non-bank lenders

RAMS Home Loans is one of the country's biggest non-bank lenders Kinghorn is a prominent Australian businessman

Kinghorn is a prominent Australian businessman The AFP worked with international agencies in their investigation

Mr Kinghorn did not enter a plea as he faced Sydney's Downing Centre Court this morning.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) alleges he fraudulently concealed his beneficial ownership of two companies from the tax office between 2004 and 2007.

He has been charged with dishonestly influencing a Commonwealth public official and defrauding the Commonwealth, after an eight-year investigation.

The maximum penalty for the offences is 10 years' imprisonment.

Court documents show the two companies are Kalomo Pacific Leasing — based in Jersey — and Kalomo Corporation Limited.

'This result should serve as a warning'

The AFP allege Mr Kinghorn represented to the tax office that he did not control any unlisted companies outside Australia, thereby prejudicing the commissioner's ability to assess his income tax liability.

AFP Assistant Commissioner Neil Gaughan said investigators had worked with international agencies.

"I'd like to commend the officers involved in this complex and lengthy investigation for their persistence and dedication to ensuring the integrity of Australia's financial frameworks," he said.

AFP Assistant Commisioner Neil Gaughan said fraud posed a threat to Australia's economy. ( AAP: Mal Fairclough )

"Serious financial crime poses a threat to Australia's economy, financial markets, regulatory frameworks, superannuation and tax system.

"Commonwealth fraud offences have a significant impact on the Australian public — every dollar represents funds that could have been put to use for the benefit of the whole community.

"This result should serve as a warning that we will use every capability at our disposal to bring allegations of fraud before court."

The case returns to court in February next year.