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I can't pay my debts

Where to find help managing debts

Many Australians are finding themselves in financial difficulty. You are not alone if you're not able to keep up with cost of living expenses.

Compare your insolvency options

You may have unmanageable debt. The earlier you seek help with your debt, the more informed you’ll be about your options.

Consequences of bankruptcy

Although bankruptcy can provide relief if you are unable to repay your debts, there are consequences which may affect you.
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What happens to my vehicle?
Apply for bankruptcy
What happens to my debts?
Assets that can be taken or sold
Unmanageable debt and insolvency support
Check how bankruptcy may affect you
Before you apply for bankruptcy make sure you understand the consequences of bankruptcy so you know if it is the right decision for you.
I’ve been served with a bankruptcy notice
If you haven't paid your debts, the person or organisation you owe money to may serve you with a bankruptcy notice - a formal demand for payment.
What is bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process where you're declared unable to pay your debts. It can release you from most debts and allow you to make a fresh start.
Am I eligible for bankruptcy?
Find out if you're eligible to apply for bankruptcy in Australia.
Indexed amounts
The Bankruptcy Act and Regulations contain a number of thresholds, limits and other amounts that are regularly indexed.
Check my eligibility
If you can't pay your debts you can use our online eligibility tool to find the formal insolvency options you're eligible for.

If you’re struggling with unmanageable debts and it’s causing you financial stress, it’s important you act quickly. Whether you’ve run into money troubles with unemployment, illness, a business or taking on too much debt – the first step in taking control of the situation is to ask for help.

There is help available. Financial counsellors offer free, independent and confidential services to discuss your situation and help you get back on track.

To speak with a financial counsellor contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. This free hotline is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday. There are also more tools and resources available online on the National Debt Helpline website.

For more information on financial counsellors and other support services see Where to find help.

Find help

Find information about where to go for help with your debt, budgeting and dealing with creditors. 

Support services
Find out more about where you can access support regarding financial difficulties.
Where to find help managing debts
Many Australians are finding themselves in financial difficulty. You are not alone if you're not able to keep up with cost of living expenses.
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Dealing with debt
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Understand your options

If you’ve already spoken with a financial counsellor or just want to get some information on what formal insolvency options are available for you, we can provide you with information about:

What is bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process where you're declared unable to pay your debts. It can release you from most debts and allow you to make a fresh start.
What is temporary debt protection (TDP)?
If you need time to consider what your next step will be, temporary debt protection (TDP) may suit you.
What is a debt agreement?
A debt agreement is one of two agreement options available. A debt agreement, also known as a Part IX (9), is a legally binding agreement.
What is a Personal insolvency agreement (PIA)?
A personal insolvency agreement (PIA) is a legally binding agreement between you and your creditors.
Compare your options for debt

Use our interactive tools and comparison tables to help understand which option could be the best for you. 

Compare your insolvency options
You may have unmanageable debt. The earlier you seek help with your debt, the more informed you’ll be about your options.
Check how bankruptcy may affect you
Before you apply for bankruptcy make sure you understand the consequences of bankruptcy so you know if it is the right decision for you.
Check my eligibility
If you can't pay your debts you can use our online eligibility tool to find the formal insolvency options you're eligible for.