Debt Recovery
Our debt recovery team assists businesses and individuals in recovering outstanding debts efficiently and cost-effectively. We use a strategic approach, starting with demand letters and negotiation, escalating to legal proceedings where necessary. We aim to recover what you are owed as quickly as possible.
Unpaid debts can have a significant impact on your business cash flow and operations. Our team works diligently to recover outstanding amounts while maintaining professional relationships where possible. We provide clear advice on the prospects of recovery and the most appropriate enforcement methods.
Contact UsOur Debt Recovery Services
- Commercial and personal debt collection
- Statutory demand preparation and service
- Letters of demand and negotiation
- Court proceedings for debt recovery
- Judgment enforcement and asset tracing
- Examination summons and oral examinations
- Writ for seizure and sale of property
- Garnishee orders for wages and bank accounts
- Bankruptcy and winding-up proceedings
- Debt recovery for builders and contractors
- Trade debt recovery
- Credit management advice
- Default judgment applications
- Enforcement of interstate judgments
Debt Recovery FAQs (Queensland Law)
How do I recover a debt from someone who will not pay in Queensland?
Debt recovery in Queensland typically begins with a letter of demand, followed by negotiation or payment plan. If the debt remains unpaid, you can commence court proceedings in the Magistrates Court (up to $150,000), District Court, or Supreme Court depending on the amount.
What is a statutory demand and how does it work in Queensland?
A statutory demand is a formal legal notice requiring payment of a debt of $4,000 or more. If the debtor does not pay or apply to set aside the demand within 21 days, they are deemed insolvent, and you can apply to wind up their company or bankrupt them.
How much does debt recovery cost in Brisbane?
Debt recovery costs in Brisbane vary. At Enlight Lawyers, we offer cost-effective debt collection services, starting with professional letters of demand from a fixed fee. Litigation costs depend on the complexity and value of the debt. We provide transparent cost estimates.
Related Practice Areas
Letters of Demand
We prepare and issue effective letters of demand for creditors across all types of debts and claims, from straightforward trade debt to complex commercial and contractual disputes. Our letters of demand are strategically crafted to maximise the prospect of payment or resolution without the need for formal legal proceedings, while laying the proper foundation for enforcement action if payment is not received. Each letter of demand we issue is prepared in accordance with the applicable legal requirements, including the requirements under the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 1999 (Qld), the Corporations Act 2001 for statutory demands, and the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 for enforcing security interests. We ensure that the content of the demand is accurate, complete, and legally effective.
View ServicesStatutory Demands & Winding Up
We provide expert advice and representation to creditors and debtors in relation to statutory demands and winding up applications under the Corporations Act 2001. Our practice covers the full lifecycle of statutory demand and winding up matters, from preparation and service of statutory demands through to resolution of genuine dispute applications and winding up proceedings. The statutory demand regime under section 459E of the Corporations Act is one of the most powerful tools available to creditors for recovering debts from companies. A statutory demand that is not complied with within 21 days gives rise to a presumption of insolvency that can be used as the basis for a winding up application.
View ServicesCourt Proceedings for Debt
When pre-litigation strategies fail to recover a debt, court proceedings may be necessary. We provide comprehensive representation in debt recovery proceedings across all Queensland courts, from the Magistrates Court for smaller claims through the District Court and the Supreme Court of Queensland. We manage the full litigation process from filing of the claim through to judgment and enforcement, ensuring that each step is taken efficiently and cost-effectively. Our team has extensive experience in debt recovery litigation and understands the procedural requirements of each court, the strategic considerations for progressing claims, and the options for resolving disputes before trial.
View ServicesJudgment Enforcement
Obtaining a judgment is only the first step in recovering a debt. When a judgment debtor fails to pay voluntarily, enforcement action is required to convert the judgment into actual recovery. We provide comprehensive advice and representation in all aspects of judgment enforcement in Queensland, using the full range of enforcement mechanisms available under the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 1999 (Qld). Our enforcement practice is proactive and strategic, designed to achieve the maximum possible recovery while minimising further cost and delay. We work closely with process servers, asset tracers, and other professionals to identify the most effective enforcement pathway.
View ServicesQCAT Claims for Minor Debts
The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) provides a cost-effective and accessible forum for resolving minor debt claims in Queensland. QCAT's minor debt jurisdiction deals with claims for debts up to $25,000, offering a simpler and less formal alternative to court proceedings. We provide comprehensive representation in QCAT minor debt claims, from initial application through to hearing and enforcement. Our team understands the unique procedural requirements of QCAT and can guide creditors through the process efficiently and effectively, maximising the prospects of a favourable outcome.
View ServicesLast updated: July 2026
Our Approach to Debt Recovery
We take a graduated approach to debt recovery. We begin with professional demand letters and negotiation, escalating to legal proceedings only when necessary. This approach often results in faster recovery at lower cost. When court action is required, we have the experience to pursue enforcement through all available means.
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