Where can I get more information on credit and debt issues?

The Australian Consumer Credit Code outlines consumers rights when using credit cards or taking out personal loans. This code covers the whole of Australia.
See www.creditcode.gov.au for details of the Consumer Credit Code.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission publication ‘Dealing with Debt: Your rights and responsibilities’ can be downloaded.

State governments are responsible for making and enforcing the majority of laws to protect consumers. This means there are differences in consumer legislation from state to state.  For information about your state check the Fair Trading or Consumer Affairs Department in your state using the link below. 

Non-government organisations in some states have produced useful fact sheets about credit and debt issues. You can either download these, or order them, to use with families. Note that because laws differ from state to state, you need to use information that has been designed for your state.

ACT: www.carefcs.org - ‘Surviving Debt’pdf

NSW: www.cclcnsw.org.au- Fact Sheets and Sample Letters

Victoria: http://www.ccls.org.au

Western Australia: www.fcrp.org.au/publications.htm