For Australians facing mounting debts and relentless creditor calls, a debt agreement can be a lifeline. But with 2025 policy tweaks and shifting economic pressures, understanding how these formal insolvency agreements work — and whether they’re right for you — has never been more important.
What Is a Debt Agreement?
A debt agreement is a legally binding arrangement between you and your unsecured creditors, administered under Part IX of the Bankruptcy Act 1966. Instead of declaring full bankruptcy, you propose to pay a percentage of your debts over a set period, usually three to five years. Creditors vote on your offer, and if accepted by a majority (in dollar value), the agreement becomes enforceable for all included creditors.
- Eligibility: Debt agreements are only available to individuals with total unsecured debts, assets, and after-tax income below certain thresholds (indexed annually).
- Protection: Once in place, creditors can’t chase you for more than the agreed repayments, and most legal action is halted.
- Impact: While less severe than bankruptcy, a debt agreement is a form of insolvency and will impact your credit score and appear on the National Personal Insolvency Index (NPII).
2025 Policy Updates: What’s Changed?
The Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA) updated the eligibility thresholds in January 2025, reflecting inflation and cost-of-living changes. Here’s what you need to know:
- Unsecured debt limit: Increased to $133,000 (previously $125,000 in 2024).
- Asset threshold: Now $133,000, up from $125,000.
- After-tax income limit: Raised to $99,900 annually.
- Digital applications: Streamlined online submission and verification processes, reducing paperwork and speeding up assessment times.
Additionally, the government’s 2025 review of personal insolvency highlighted a push for greater transparency around debt agreement administrator fees, leading to new mandatory fee disclosure requirements effective 1 July 2025.
When Is a Debt Agreement the Right Move?
Debt agreements are not for everyone. They suit Australians who:
- Can’t pay their debts in full but want to avoid bankruptcy
- Have regular income to make agreed repayments
- Owe less than the current unsecured debt and asset thresholds
- Are seeking formal protection from creditor harassment
Example: Lisa, a Brisbane-based hospitality worker, fell behind on $42,000 in credit card and personal loan debts after losing hours in 2024. With her income stabilising in 2025, she negotiated a debt agreement to repay 60% of her debts over four years. Her creditors accepted the proposal, and she avoided bankruptcy and wage garnishment.
Key considerations:
- A debt agreement won’t cover secured debts (like mortgages or car loans) or debts incurred by fraud.
- Your name will appear on the NPII for at least five years, and your credit file will reflect the agreement.
- If you default on repayments, the agreement may be terminated, and creditors can pursue you for the full amount again.
Risks and Alternatives
While a debt agreement offers relief, it’s not a silver bullet. Consider these risks:
- Credit impact: Your ability to obtain new finance will be severely restricted for years.
- Fees: Administrators charge setup and ongoing fees, now more transparent under 2025 rules but still significant.
- Asset sales: You may need to sell assets to meet your repayment plan.
Alternatives: Debt consolidation loans, informal arrangements with creditors, or financial counselling may be better suited if you have smaller debts or expect your situation to improve soon.
Conclusion: Is a Debt Agreement Your Path to a Fresh Start?
With 2025’s updated rules and increased consumer protections, debt agreements remain a viable option for Australians overwhelmed by unsecured debt but determined to avoid bankruptcy. If you’re eligible and committed to sticking to a repayment plan, this formal insolvency solution can help you regain control and work toward financial stability.
