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Australia - New South Wales Debt Collection Guide

Filing fees, claim limits, demand letter requirements, court process, service rules, and enforcement options for collecting money in Australia - New South Wales. Verify local court rules before filing.

Verified
Source checked: 2026-04-29
Official source
Court
NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)
Filing Fee
Varies by claim type and amount; check NCAT fee schedule
Claim Limit
A$100,000 for consumer claims (approx $65,000 USD)
Timeline
4-8 weeks

Filing Instructions

  1. 1Lodge an application online via the NCAT website
  2. 2Pay the application fee
  3. 3NCAT notifies the respondent
  4. 4Attend a directions hearing or conciliation
  5. 5If not resolved, matter proceeds to hearing

Required Forms

  • - NCAT Application Form

Service Rules

NCAT handles notification. Applicant may need to serve documents if NCAT directs.

Legal Basis

Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2013 (NSW)

Enforcement Options

  • - Garnishee order
  • - Writ for levy of property
  • - Examination notice
  • - Bankruptcy notice (for debts over A$10,000)

Online Filing Portal

https://www.ncat.nsw.gov.au

Important Notes

NCAT handles a wide range of disputes including consumer claims, tenancy, and general civil matters up to A$100,000.

Start with a demand letter

Document the claim before escalating to a court or tribunal.

Start Your Case