Can I authorise someone to deal with it for me?
You don't have to face a collector alone. You can authorise a trusted person or a free financial counsellor to deal with them on your behalf.
This guide helps you
- Understand who can act on your behalf
- Know how to authorise someone properly
- Redirect collector contact to your representative
- Find free help to take this on
5 min read
What's happening
Dealing with collectors can be stressful, especially if you're unwell, overwhelmed, or just want support. You can nominate someone — a trusted family member, friend, or a free financial counsellor — to deal with the collector for you.
Once authorised, the collector can be asked to contact your representative instead of you.
Your first steps
Decide who you'd like to act for you and set it up:
- Choose someone you trust, or contact a free financial counsellor.
- Tell the collector in writing that you've authorised this person.
- Provide their contact details and ask the collector to deal with them.
Keep a copy of your authorisation.
Step by step
- Pick a representative — a counsellor, family member, or friend.
- Authorise them in writing to the collector.
- Ask the collector to direct contact to your representative.
- Stay informed — your representative should keep you updated.
- Get free help if you'd like a financial counsellor to take this on.
Your rights
You're allowed to have someone act on your behalf, and collectors should respect a clear authorisation. This can be especially helpful if you're vulnerable or unwell. For formal arrangements like powers of attorney, terms vary — look them up in our glossary or get advice.
Where to get free help
A free financial counsellor can act as your representative and deal directly with collectors. Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007, or visit our help centre to learn more.
Key takeaways
- You can authorise a trusted person or counsellor to deal with collectors.
- Put the authorisation in writing and keep a copy.
- Ask the collector to direct contact to your representative.
- Free counsellors can take this on via 1800 007 007.
Frequently asked questions
Who can deal with a collector for me?
A trusted family member, friend, or a free financial counsellor can act on your behalf once you've authorised them in writing.
How do I let the collector know?
Tell them in writing that you've authorised the person, provide their contact details, and ask the collector to deal with them.
Is a financial counsellor really free?
Yes. Financial counselling through the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 is free and confidential.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Your situation is unique and rules can vary by state and over time — for advice on your circumstances, speak to a free financial counsellor (National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007) or get legal help.
Know your options, know your rights
A free, plain-English guide to dealing with debt in Australia — and the people who can help.