Dealing with debt collectors

A debt collector is a person who collects debts on behalf of a business. This could be a creditor collecting a debt themselves, including 'assignees', or someone on behalf of the creditor, such as an independent collection agency. Assignees are people or businesses who have been sold or ‘assigned’ a debt by the original creditor.

If you owe money, debt collectors generally have a right to seek repayment. However there are laws in place to protect you from being treated unfairly by debt collectors.

What debt collectors can & cannot do

If you are dealing with a debt collector, you have protections under the law. A debt collector must not mislead, harass, coerce or act unconscionably towards you.

Disputing a debt

If you are contacted about a debt you do not owe, or disagree with the amount being claimed, you have a right to dispute it.

Where to get help when you're in debt

People get into financial difficulties for many reasons. If you find yourself in debt, there is help available.

Download our consumer guide

Dealing with debt collectors: your rights & responsibilities

This consumer brochure will help people who are currently dealing with debt problems, or being contacted by debt collectors.

16 Dec 2020