A joint ACCC and ASIC debt collection forum was held on Friday, 5 September 2008. The forum provided a vehicle for constructive and open discussion of the major issues affecting both consumers and the industry, with a view to achieving outcomes that will minimise consumer detriment from debt collection practices, in particular the assignment of debt.
The program included keynote presentations and panel discussion sessions to capture the different views and experiences of over 90 delegates. Representatives of consumers, creditors, industry, dispute resolution schemes and regulators participated in the event.
The ACCC and ASIC are assessing the complaints received during the July phone-in day and the input provided by delegates at the forum. Matters that require enforcement activity will be identified and both agencies will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to develop effective mechanisms to ensure compliance with the Debt collection guideline: for collectors and creditors and consumer protection law.
