Issue Date:  -  Tuesday, 15 August 2006

Debt collector facing misconduct investigation South West of WA

Numerous complaints from consumers in the state’s South West alleging misconduct by a licensed debt collector, including the use of harassment and coercion, have triggered an investigation by Consumer Protection.

For legal reasons the debt collector cannot be named at this time.

“We are taking a very serious view of all these allegations and an investigation is underway to uncover the full facts,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said.

“The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in conjunction with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission have issued general guidelines outlining acceptable debt collection activity, including how and when debt collectors may contact debtors and their friends, family, neighbours and employers. The debt collector being investigated has allegedly flouted many of the guidelines,”

“”For a number of consumers to all be saying similar things about this operator is of concern, and I would ask any other consumers who consider they have been mistreated by a debt collector, to come forward and assist us with our enquiries.” Mr. Walker said. 

Consumers who can provide information or who wish to lodge complaints should contact Consumer Protection on telephone 1300 30 40 54 or email consumer@docep.wa.gov.au  .

Full guidelines for the conduct of debt collectors can be obtained from the Australian Competition and Consumer Council (ACCC) website www.accc.gov.au  or by calling 1300 302 502.