What the ACCC does

  • We educate consumers and businesses on their rights and responsibilities.
  • We accept reports and enquiries about debt collectors.
  • We review reports from the public and take action if we identify behaviour that breaks consumer law.

What the ACCC can't do

  • We don’t provide legal advice about debt disputes.
  • We don’t provide financial advice or financial counselling.
  • We don’t get involved in individual debt disputes.

Rules and advice

What debt collectors can and can't do

Owing a debt can be stressful. Knowing what debt collectors can and can't do can help. Both debtors and debt collectors have rights and legal obligations.

Help when you're in debt

There are several free services that can help you if you’re struggling with debt. Laws are in place to protect you from being treated unfairly by debt collectors.

Disputing a debt

You can dispute a debt you don’t owe, or if you disagree with the amount. Get legal advice if you are being taken to court.

ACCC action on debt collection

See media releases on debt collection