Australian debt guide
Can a debt collector come to your house?
By DebtReply · Sources checked
A collector may seek face-to-face contact, but official guidance puts limits around visits. The ACCC describes home visits as a last resort, unless requested or agreed. If a visit worries you, record what happened and seek help. A visit does not itself establish that the claimed debt is correct.
What does the guidance say about visits?
The ACCC guidance on contact says a visit should generally be a last resort and may be unnecessary when arrangements can be discussed in writing or by phone. Its guidance also addresses respectful treatment. Read the original guidance for the full context, rather than relying on a single time or frequency rule.
What if I feel threatened?
Moneysmart directs people facing threats of violence or force to police. For concerns about other collection behaviour, a financial counsellor can help you work through a complaint. DebtReply does not determine whether a particular visit breaks a rule.
How can I record what happened?
Use the private contact log to record the date, company, channel and a factual summary. Separate words you remember from your interpretation. Note whether anyone else was present, but avoid including unnecessary personal details. Export a copy before leaving the page because DebtReply does not save it.
What can I do next?
- Put your immediate safety first.
- Make a factual record while the details are fresh.
- Keep related messages together.
- If the claim itself is unfamiliar, read the proof guide.
- Discuss the contact and your preferred communication method with a free help service.
Put your next step into words
Use a free starting-point letter, then check that every detail fits your situation.
Write the letter →Common questions
Does a visit prove that I owe the money?
No. Check the underlying account and records separately from the way you were contacted.
Where can I read the contact guidance?
The ACCC and Moneysmart sources below explain expectations for collector contact and behaviour.
Can I keep a record on this site?
You can prepare and download a contact log. DebtReply does not store it for you.
Sources you can check
- What debt collectors can and cannot do ↗ACCC · Checked 26 September 2026
- Dealing with debt collectors ↗ASIC Moneysmart · Checked 26 September 2026
This guide explains a process. It has not been reviewed as advice for your situation. How we use sources.