Australia wide organisation which provides general information to all people considering bankruptcy. Bankruptcy consultants will provide advice on individual options and the best solution to the individual’s financial problems. Will charge a fee depending on level of income, size of debt and what type of assistance is given.
The Credit Ombudsman Service provides consumers and financial service providers with an accessible, independant and fair dispute resolution service. Free service to consumers.
Can assist consumers with issues relating to the storage and use of credit information. Can provide consumers with a copy of their credit file.
The Customer Owned Banking Association is owned by its 95 member institutions: 77 credit unions, 6 building societies, 11 mutual banks and 1 other; and represents 13 friendly societies though the Friendly Societies of Australia and a number of affiliate members.
COBA provides representation and advocacy for its members to:
- federal and state governments;
- regulators, such as APRA and ASIC;
- the media;
- industry and consumer groups; and
- the general public and other stakeholders.
FCA is the peak body for financial counsellors in Australia. Whilst FCA’s role is to support financial counsellors, it will advocate on behalf of clients of financial counsellors for a fairer marketplace that will prevent financial problems in the first place.
By ringing this number you can speak to a financial counsellor, this number will automatically switch through to the service in the State or Territory closest to you.
Opening hours are : 9.30am – 4.30pm.
The FPA is the peak professional body for Australia’s financial planners. It aims to raise the professional standards of financial planning in Australia, with the aim of protecting consumers from unethical practices and safeguarding their best interests.
The Institute of chartered Accountants in Australia is the professional body representing chartered accountants in Australia. Deals with enquiries and complaints about accountants.
Information on superannuation, retirement income, Superannuation Guarantee and eligible termination payments. Part of Australian Taxation Office.
An independent Government agency who provide information to consumers on debt and bankruptcy.
Operates Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 8pm.
The Self Representation Service can assist unrepresented litigants with civil law proceedings in the Federal Court and Federal Circuit Court relating to Bankruptcy and Fair Work.
They are unable to provide assistance for family and criminal law matters.
They can provide free assistance to individuals who:
- are involved in, or are considering commencing legal proceedings in the Federal Court or Federal Circuit Court.
- Have a legal issue that they have expertise in.
- Are not represented.
- Are unable to afford private legal assistance.
- Are ineligible for Legal Aid.