Wednesday, July 27, 2016 - Posted by Michael McCulloch
Debt purchase company, Panthera Finance, is fighting a lawsuit commenced by Consumer Action Law Centre on behalf of Edwina Crawford, an alleged single mother claiming harassment and alleged breaches of the Debt Collection Guidelines.
The lawsuit filed in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal claims:
- Panthera Finance acted illegally;
- That Ms Crawford was harassed; and
- Panthera Finance made certain misrepresentation of about the consequences of non-payment.
It is alleged that Panthera Finance contacted Ms Crawford on 10 occasions in a fortnightly period after it was explained by her that she had 4 children and was in receipt of a Centrelink pension and was unable to service the debt.
In response to the allegations Panthera Finance released the following statement:
"We deny all allegations made against us and will be submitting evidence to the tribunal to this effect if required. We are very aware that the law prohibits us from harassing customers, engaging in threatening behaviour, garnisheeing Centrelink benefits or seizing household goods. We have a number of safeguards in place to ensure this conduct does not occur".
Ms Crawford is seeking damages of up to $10,000.
While we are unable to comment at this stage as to the validity of the lawsuit it should serve as a timely reminder that Creditors and Collectors understand their rights and obligations and that any debt collection is undertaken in a way which is consistent to consumer protection laws across Australia.
A copy of the Debt Collection Guidelines can be downloaded from
here.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014 - Posted by Michael McCulloch
[Commercial Cleaning]
Your company is very helpful for debt collection with fair cost.
David - Owner
Thursday, September 11, 2014 - Posted by Philip Harvey
[Dance Studio]
I'm very impressed with the prompt and thorough work of LCollect. And very happy with the return we received! I wish we did it a lot earlier!
Juliette - Director
Wednesday, July 02, 2014 - Posted by Philip Harvey
[Digital Printing Company]
You've exceeded our expectation. Tho only a small amount, this was promptly collected. Whatever the reasons of our client, I think they got the message - they shouldn't overlook small businesses around town cos they need funds to keep it going! So thanks for your help in collecting.
Albert - CEO
Friday, June 13, 2014 - Posted by Philip Harvey
[Veterinary Surgery]
Very happy with LCollect overall. Was very easy to set up the account with them unlike some other companies who wouldn't respond to my phone call for few days. Very quick dealings. Hope to deal with you again.
Owner
Tuesday, March 12, 2013 - Posted by Michael McCulloch
[Credit Unions & Mutuals]
Michael conducted a very interesting and informative training session. He has a very easy presenting style and was able to provide sound guidance on the legal process, steps as well as answer all of our questions. Great work!
Collections Manager
Monday, March 28, 2011 - Posted by Michael McCulloch
[Credit Unions & Mutuals]
Advice and service is always professional yet friendly.
Collections Manager
Friday, March 25, 2011 - Posted by Michael McCulloch
[Credit Unions & Mutuals]
I am happy with the "all round debt collection" service that LCollect provides.
Collections Manager