Do you want to be a...

Debt Collector

Also known as Mercantile Agent, Collection Agent and Commercial Agent.

Debt collectors assist in the retrieval of money owed by debtors from overdue accounts, unpaid loans or other debts. They may contact the debtor, advise them of debts and arrange for payments to be made.

Debt collectors often work in situations that can be stressful and must be able to maintain their professional conduct at all times.

They may be required to work in the evenings or on weekends.

The work may involve a lot of travelling to meet clients or debtors.

The work of debt collectors is increasingly specialised. Some debt collectors work in offices or call centres while others are required to visit debtors at their home or workplace.

TASKS

Debt collectors may perform the following tasks:

contact debtors and inform them of debts
liaise with debtors, clients, process servers and solicitors
provide information on debts
prepare summonses and statements of claim for filing at court
locate debtors and convey demand for payment
put a settlement proposal or alternative payment arrangement to the debtor
sight, inspect or recover a security interest

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

good negotiation skills
ability to remain calm in stressful situations
good research skills
patient and persistent
able to abide by strict regulations
good computer and internet skills

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Repossession Agent - collects security goods, such as property or vehicles, when debtors are unable to repay their debts.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a debt collector you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in mercantile agents or financial services. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a debt collector through a traineeship in Mercantile Agents or Credit Management.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Financial Services Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

The debt collection industry is jointly regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) at the national level, and by licensing authorities at the state level. All debt collectors in NSW must have an operator licence issued by the NSW Police Force. To gain this licence you must be over 18 years of age.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Debt collectors may work for a variety of employers, including investigation agencies, insurance companies, private businesses and individuals. Those based in larger cities tend to specialise in a particular industry or in assisting litigation procedures.