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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
World
Christopher Knaus

Why Guardian Australia is investigating the private debt collection industry

Australian banknotes on a table
A Guardian Australia investigation has revealed allegations of misconduct and underhanded tactics on the part of private debt collectors during a cost-of-living crisis. Photograph: alfexe/Getty Images

More than half of all Australians have found themselves in some form of financial stress. Increasing numbers of people are facing energy poverty, food insecurity, delayed medical treatment and housing insecurity.

Calls to the National Debt Helpline have increased by 25% in the last financial year. When everyday Australians go to the wall, there is one sector that gets more business: the private debt collection industry.

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