Consumer Fact Sheets

Practical Consumer Information about Legislation, Disputes, and Financial Options 

Funded by the Consumer Credit Fund, the FCRC has developed some practical information and options for those experiencing financial hardship.

The objective of this project was to develop an accessible and simple set of tools to assist consumers to understand and deal with negotiating the payment of debt, as well as relevant legislation, dispute resolution, and unfair contracts.

The FCRC researched widely current consumer information, and consulted with members and stakeholders to inform the development of the fact sheets and flow charts for consumers.

The FCRC would like to thank all Financial Counsellors who provided valuable information and insight into their casework during the consultation phase of the project.

Click on the titles in the boxes below to access the relevant information.

Fact Sheet	Description
Sources of Consumer Rights: Codes and Legislation	Consumer protections under Victoria's main Acts and Codes.
Magistrates' Court Proceedings	Options if you are being pursued for an outstanding debt, and where to access assistance.
Financial Position Statements	Communicating your position, what to include, when to use, and who may assist you when preparing one.
Getting Credit	Credit providers and their costs, things to consider when signing a credit contract, and understanding your rights and options.
Alternative Dispute Resolution	Options when trying to resolve a complaint including information about Ombudsman and mediation.

Flow Chart	Description
Bankruptcy Process: Proceedings Issued by a Creditor	The steps involved when a creditor issues a complaint against you.
Judgment Debt Recovery Process: Magistrates' Court	The steps involved when a creditor issues a complaint against you for a failure to pay.

If you are experiencing difficulties accessing the information, contact the FCRC office on (03) 9663 2000, or email admin@fcrc.org.au.

If you would like further information regarding this project, contact the FCRC's Project Coordinator, Jessica Murrowood at jessica.murrowood@fcrc.org.au.

The funding for this project was provided from the Consumer Credit Fund on the approval of the Minister for Consumer Affairs.