What is a garnishee order?
A garnishee order is a way a creditor can enforce a judgment by redirecting money owed to you — such as wages or bank funds — to themselves. Knowing how it works helps you respond and seek help.
This guide helps you
- Understand what a garnishee order does
- Know it usually follows a court judgment
- See what can and can't typically be garnished
- Learn the first steps to take if you face one
- Find free help to respond
6 min
What's happening
A garnishee order is a court enforcement tool that directs a third party who owes you money — commonly your employer or your bank — to pay some of that money to a creditor instead of to you. It is generally used after a creditor has obtained a judgment, as a way to collect on it.
In practice this can mean a portion of your wages, or funds in your account, are redirected to the creditor until the judgment debt is paid.
Don't ignore it
A garnishee order can directly reduce the money you have to live on, so it should never be ignored. There are usually protections — for example, limits designed to leave you enough to meet basic living costs — but the exact rules, the protected amounts and the process vary by state, territory and court. Getting advice quickly can help you understand the limits and whether the order can be challenged or adjusted.
Step by step
- Read the order to see who is being directed to pay (your employer, bank, or another party).
- Check whether a judgment was entered — a garnishee usually flows from one.
- Get legal advice on whether the order is correct and whether protected-earnings limits apply.
- Talk to a financial counsellor about your budget and any hardship.
- Consider negotiating a payment arrangement that may replace the garnishee.
Do not assume a figure for how much can be taken — protected amounts and methods differ between jurisdictions. Check the order and your court's rules, or get advice.
Get legal help
If a garnishee order surprises you, it may signal an earlier judgment you can still address — so legal advice is worthwhile. Legal Aid and community legal centres can advise on the order and any underlying judgment, while a financial counsellor on 1800 007 007 can help with budgeting, hardship and negotiation.
Courts and legal-help services are in the bodies directory.
Where to get free help
Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 and contact Legal Aid or a community legal centre. To understand related terms, see the glossary.
This is general information only and is not legal advice. Garnishee rules and protected amounts vary — get advice on your situation.
Key takeaways
- A garnishee order redirects money owed to you (wages or bank funds) to a creditor.
- It generally follows a court judgment.
- Protections exist but vary by state — don't assume the amount.
- Get legal and financial advice quickly if you face one.
Frequently asked questions
Can my whole wage be garnished?
Generally no — there are usually limits meant to leave enough for basic living costs, but the protected amount varies by jurisdiction. Get advice.
Does a garnishee mean I've been to court?
It usually means a judgment was obtained, sometimes a default judgment you may not have actively contested. Check and get advice.
Can I stop a garnishee order?
Sometimes it can be challenged, varied, or replaced by a payment arrangement. A lawyer or financial counsellor can explain your options.
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
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