FAQ
WHAT IS A CREDIT FILE?
A Credit file is information gathered about an individual or organisation that is relevant to a credit provider such as a bank in determining if the individual or organisation is credit worthy.
WHAT INFORMATION CAN BE RECORDED ON A CREDIT FILE?
Overdue accounts, enquiries, notes, and personal identity details eg your date of birth, licence number, cross references, current credit providers, public and court records, directorship and enquiries.
WHAT INFORMATION CAN NOT BE RECORDED ON A CREDIT FILE?
Personal information such as your race or religion, criminal history, political or social beliefs, sexual preferences or medical history, these are just some of the examples. Commonwealth Legislation governs what can and can not be recorded on credit files.
WHO ARE THE CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES?
There are two (2) main Credit Reporting Agencies in Australia. Veda Advantage and Dun & Bradstreet (D&B)
HOW LONG IS INFORMATION HELD ON A CREDIT FILE?
4 Years – Court Writs & Summons
5 Years – Payment Defaults, Court Judgments & Credit Enquiries
7 Years – Bankruptcy & Part 9 Debt Agreements & Clearouts
10 Years – External Administration & Previous Directorships
HOW CAN I GET A COPY OF MY CREDIT REPORT?
Everybody is entitled to a copy of their Credit Report. You may Contact Veda Advantage the largest credit report agency in Australia & order a copy of your credit report for a small fee. Or if you engage the services of We Fix Credit we will provide you with a copy of your credit report as part of our service.
CAN I REPAIR MY OWN CREDIT FILE?
Yes you can at no cost to you. However, companies like We Fix Credit have a specialist team of consultants who provide an efficient & Cost effective solution to suit any budget. We charge the majority of our fees on an incentive basis. Therefore, if we are not successful in improving you credit file we do not charge a fee except for the small upfront administration fee.
CAN A INCORRECT LISTING ON A CREDIT FILE BE DISPUTED?
Absolutely, Federal Legislation which governs credit reporting in Australia. It contains clear provisions allowing any individual or organisation to dispute incorrect listings
CAN CREDIT REPAIR OR RESTORATION COMPANIES BE TRUSTED?
Like any industry there is a small element that is not reputable. Before engaging the services of any credit repair company you should satisfy yourself that the company is reputable and you should always obtain a disclosure of their fees upfront. We Fix Credit prides itself in being a reputable organisation. Our fees and charges are extremely competitive and they are always disclosed up front.
ARE THERE ANY BOGUS CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES?
The major credit reporting agencies in Australia are Veda Advantage (formally known as BayCorp Advantage) & Dun & Bradstreet. Some debt collection firms threaten to list with other unknown reporting agencies. Most lenders only list with Veda & Dun & Bradstreet. The threat of listing with the other agencies is used to force payment of a debt.
ARE CREDIT APPLICATIONS RECORDED?
Yes they are. Each application or enquiry for credit is listed on your credit report. Accordingly, too many applications for credit may lead to further credit application being declined. Prior to submitting an application for credit, you should ask the lender to assess your application and determine the likelihood of your application being approved. This limits the number of applications appearing on your credit file. Credit enquiries remain on your credit file for 5 years.
HOW LONG DOES IT NORMALY TAKE TO REPAIR A CREDIT FILE?
Each situation is different, however typically an improvement to a credit file can be achieved within 30 days.
WHY SHOULD I PAY MONEY TO IMPROVE MY CREDIT FILE?
The benefits of improving your credit file far outweigh the cost in doing so. By having a good credit file you benefit from the following:
- The ability to borrow money at a competitive interest rate, from traditional lenders and not non conforming lenders.
- Lower monthly repayments
- The ability to open trade accounts
- Not having to offer lenders embarrassing explanations as to why there is a default or judgement on your credit file
- Peace of mind that a true reflection of your credit worthiness is put forward.





