An effective way to lower stress levels around debt collection is to hire a debt collection agency. They have more experience in amicably recovering funds, so it’s a more effective approach. Still, whether you’re pursuing your debtors on your own or using third-party debt collection in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or anywhere in Australia, you have to abide by Australian debt regulation.
ACCC and ASIC
The institutions responsible for formulating, policing, and enforcing debt collection law are the Australian Competition and Consumers Commission (ACCC) and the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC). They set the terms under which debt can safely, respectfully, and responsibly be collected. They aim to protect consumers (and by extension, debtors). For example, they stipulate you can only contact debtors between 7 in the morning and 9 at night during the week.
On weekends, you can get in touch from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm, but only using the debtor’s preferred communication method. Also, you can only contact them ten a times a month in total. That includes phone calls, emails, or text messages. And if they ask you to stop using a particular mode of communication, you should comply. Don’t ‘pass by’ your debtor’s house or office unless they specifically asked you to – in-person meetings are the last resort.
Reasonable requests
Be professional at all times. Identify yourself clearly and show ID if they ask. Find out what the payment barriers are and discuss how you can work around them. Do they need an extension, smaller installments, an option to bargain? If you’re recording conversations (and you should), let them know why. Keep precise records at every stage of proceedings, including details of the amount owed, due dates, and any accumulating interest.
Keep it legal
Boston Commercial Services can help to recover debt at any stage, from late payments to lawsuits. We advise our clients to stay within ACCC and ASIC terms, both before and after we get involved. Any infringements – however justified – can affect the client’s ability to get their money back. For assistance with debt collection, call Boston Commercial Services today on 1300 668 699.
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