What happens to my credit report after bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy affects your credit file in particular ways. Here is what to expect and check.
This guide helps you
- Understand how bankruptcy appears on your credit report
- Learn the general listing periods involved
- Know what to check on your file after bankruptcy
- See how this links to other public insolvency records
- Find free help to rebuild afterwards
6 min
What's happening
If you become bankrupt, this is recorded on your credit report and also appears on the national personal insolvency record. Bankruptcy and related listings stay on your credit file for set periods, generally measured in years. The exact periods are governed by the rules and can change, so confirm the current position rather than assuming a fixed number.
General timeframes
As a guide only, and subject to the current rules, bankruptcy-related information generally stays on your credit report for a set number of years, often around five years or longer from the relevant date, sometimes longer for certain entries. The permanent insolvency record and your credit report are separate systems, so check both.
Step by step
- Get your credit report and confirm how the bankruptcy is recorded.
- Check the dates so you know the expected drop-off period.
- Make sure no other information is wrong alongside it.
- Focus on rebuilding good habits during and after the listing period.
- Seek free advice on managing credit going forward.
Watch out for
Be cautious of firms promising to remove a bankruptcy listing for a fee; an accurate bankruptcy record cannot simply be deleted. Rebuilding takes time and good habits, not a payment. Also remember the public insolvency record is separate from your credit report.
Where to get free help
A free financial counsellor on the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) can help you understand your position and plan to rebuild. For definitions of insolvency terms, see the glossary, and the directory of bodies lists relevant organisations.
Key takeaways
- Bankruptcy appears on both your credit report and the insolvency record.
- Listings stay for set periods, generally measured in years.
- An accurate bankruptcy listing cannot be removed for a fee.
- Free advice can help you rebuild during and after the period.
Frequently asked questions
How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?
Generally a set number of years from the relevant date, often around five years or longer depending on the entry. This is governed by the rules and can change, so check the current position.
Can I pay to remove the bankruptcy listing?
No. An accurate bankruptcy record cannot simply be deleted. Be wary of any firm promising otherwise for a fee.
Is the credit report the same as the insolvency record?
No. They are separate systems. Bankruptcy can show on both, so it is worth checking each.
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.
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