How do I get a free credit report?
You are entitled to your credit report at no cost. Here is exactly how to claim it.
This guide helps you
- Confirm your right to a free credit report
- Identify the three bureaus to request from
- Verify your identity to receive the report
- Avoid paid products dressed up as the only option
- Know when extra free reports are available to you
5 min
What's happening
In Australia you have a legal right to access your own credit report for free. The report is held by credit reporting bodies, the three main ones being Equifax, Experian and illion. You do not have to buy a subscription or a one-off paid report to exercise this right.
Your first steps
- Decide which bureau to start with, knowing your file can differ between them.
- Have identity documents ready, such as a licence or passport.
- Go straight to the bureau's official site, not a reseller.
Step by step
- Open the bureau's consumer credit report request page.
- Choose the free report option rather than a paid plan.
- Verify your identity using the documents listed.
- Submit your request. Free reports may take a little longer to arrive than instant paid ones.
- Repeat with the other bureaus to see your full picture.
Watch out for
Many sites push a paid 'credit score' or monitoring subscription and bury the free report option. If a page asks for card details before showing anything, you are likely on a paid product, not the free legal channel. You are generally entitled to a free report every few months, and additionally if you were recently declined credit or had a correction made, but confirm the current rules.
Where to get free help
If you are unsure which channel is the genuine free one, a financial counsellor on the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) can point you the right way at no cost. The directory of bodies also lists relevant organisations.
Key takeaways
- Your credit report is free to access by law.
- Request it directly from Equifax, Experian and illion.
- Free reports may take longer to arrive than paid ones.
- Card details up front usually signal a paid product, not the free channel.
Frequently asked questions
Is the free report a cut-down version?
No. The free report you are entitled to is your credit report. Paid products mainly add convenience features like instant delivery or ongoing monitoring.
How many free reports can I get?
Generally one free report from each bureau every few months, plus extra free access in certain situations such as after a refusal of credit. Check the current rules.
Which bureau should I use?
Ideally all three over time, because lenders report to different bureaus and your file can vary between them.
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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