Debt in oz
 

I lived in oz for over 7 years. My now x oz husband had me have debt in my name. I'm wanting to move back to oz, but I know due to my x husband making me do this, problems will arise. This was a forced situation, as his view on marriage was adultery...
Please help, he was an evil man & it took me all my strength to eventually leave him & return to the UK. Thank you for any response x

Re: Debt in oz
 

What is your immigration status?

Re: Debt in oz
 

Depending on how much and to whom you owe money you could get a default on your credit file in Australia - and possibly even be chased for the money in the UK if it's a substantial amount.

Debt can be pursued under Foreign Judgements Regulations & the UK is a signatory at 27:

FOREIGN JUDGMENTS REGULATIONS 1992 - SCHEDULE Superior Courts

Although I'm not sure if it applies to consumer debts and it is expensive and complex to pursue so if you owe a small amount I doubt they'd bother.

Unfortunately, even though your ex-husband may have used the money if it is in your name you are responsible for it unless he legally takes it on or transfers money to settle the debt.

I really feel for you. If you contact the companies that you owe money to you may be able to come to a payment arrangement of a few $$ per month over a few years.

Best of luck.

Re: Debt in oz
 

Thanks for your replies.
I've got Australian citizenship.
I've been back in the UK nearly 4 years.
It's a bank that's due the money.

Re: Debt in oz
 

A similar thing happened to me in the States. It was a stressful time starting out on my own after separation with a big pile of debt but I quickly contacted the creditors, turned everything into legal debts and gradually paid them off. The creditors would often settle on a lesser amount just to get shot of the debt. Within a few years I had rebuilt my credit and was even able to obtain a mortgage which I felt was quite an achievement.

If your dream is to get back to Australia then you shouldn't let a bit of debt stand in your way (bearing in mind that I know nothing of your situation of course)

Good luck!

Re: Debt in oz
 

You need to get a copy of your credit file and see what's in it. These would be defaults and clear after some time, if we are talking 7 years (could be 5) the defaults would be clear now. Check out Veda.com.au for your free credit file.