When your bankruptcy ends, most of your debts are released[?] and you no longer need to pay them. However, there may be some debts that you still need to pay; find out more on what happens to my debts.
Your name continues to appear on the National Personal Insolvency Index (NPII)[?] showing your bankruptcy has ended.
Can I apply for credit?
After your bankruptcy has ended, there is no restriction on applying for loans or credit. It’s up to the credit provider to decide if they will lend you money.
Your credit report[?] will continue to show your bankruptcy for either:
- 2 years from when your bankruptcy ends or
- 5 years from the date you became bankrupt (whichever is later).
It can take time to rebuild your credit rating.
For more information regarding your credit report, contact a credit reporting agency[?]. Information about credit reporting agencies is available at ASIC's MoneySmart.
Are there any employment restrictions?
The Bankruptcy Act 1966 does not impose any restrictions on employment, either during or after bankruptcy. However some trades or professions may impose restrictions.
We recommend you contact the relevant agency or association to see if your bankruptcy will impact your employment. Common professions that bankruptcy may affect are listed under employment restrictions.
Can I travel overseas?
Yes. You no longer need your trustees’ permission to travel overseas when your bankruptcy ends.
Do I need to keep in contact with my trustee?
Normally you don't. In some cases, your trustee continues to manage your bankruptcy, even after it has ended. For example, your trustee has claimed your house as an asset and they haven’t sold it yet.
Your trustee may still request you to:
- provide information about your financial situation
- make any outstanding compulsory payments[?].
Getting help
If you need help managing your money once your bankruptcy has ended you can read more information at Budgeting and Dealing with debt.
You can get also help from a free financial counsellor by contacting the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. Financial counsellors offer free, independent and confidential services to discuss your situation and help you get back on track. The National Debt Helpline website also has step by step guides and useful information on how to deal with specific types of debts, such as housing, tax debt or Centrelink debt.
For more information on financial counsellors and other support services see Where to find help.
Life after bankruptcy
Now that you are free from paying back most of your debts, you can have a fresh start with your finances.
By now you may already be on your way to saving for your future. This can go a long way towards helping you build a new life.
It is a good idea to start sticking to a budget and saving some money if you can. A good budget can help you track and manage your money.
After your bankruptcy has ended, there is no restriction on applying for loans or credit. It can take time to rebuild your credit rating, and it's up to the lender to decide whether to lend you money or not.
If you do borrow money or buy things on credit, make sure the repayments are within your budget. You can also apply for a home loan if you've been bankrupt in the past. Again, it is up to lender to decide whether to lend you money.
See Budgeting for tips and tools on how to avoid getting into a difficult financial position in the future.