What is debt?
A debt is where a person owes money to another person or organisation.
Some examples of debts are money owed to Centrelink, a rental agreement for a fridge, a car loan, a phone bill, or money owed to a Government Department.
Fines are also a type of debt. A fine is a penalty for breaking the law, such as speeding, using drugs, and drinking in a public place. Fines can be issued by Courts, the Police, or another official such as a Council Ranger.
When should I get help with debt?
You might consider seeking legal advice if you answer “yes” to any of the below questions:
- Have you received a fine that you don’t agree with?
- Do you have fines that you are having problems paying?
- Do you have someone chasing you for money, like a debt collector?
- Do you have any troubles paying bills such as phone bills, electricity, water and gas?
- Do you have a large credit card debt?
- Have you been paying off something that is faulty?