How to Obtain a Credit File in Australia

Getting a copy of your credit file in Australia is similar to obtaining information on yourself in most countries of the world. The credit bureaus Veda Advantage and Dun and Bradstreet report information on Australian consumers. Having an accurate credit file is important because it is a major factor in whether banks and finance companies will lend to applicants. Fortunately, there are ways to find out what information Australian credit bureaus keep under your name for free or a low price.

Instructions

1

Visit Veda Advantage's website (see Resources below) to request a copy of your Australia credit report. Files are kept only on those who have had some credit activity, such as those who have applied for a loan or received a credit card, in the last 7 years and are citizens or permanent residents of Australia. You have two choices on how to get your credit information--via postal mail for free or online for $29.95.

2

Click the "Order Online Now" button if you want to see your Veda Advantage credit report online within 1 business day. Fill out the required personal information, which includes your full name, current and past address, Australia driver's license number and date of birth. Pay your required fee with a credit card or by issuing a bank transfer or 1-900 number telephone call through the BPAY function. Your credit report can also be delivered by postal mail.

3

Write to Veda Advantage Public Access, P.O. Box 964, North Sydney, NSW 2059, to receive your free credit file copy within 10 business days of the company receiving your request. You will need to include your full name, date of birth, a copy of your Australia driver's license, a copy of a utility bill or bank statement, your current and past addresses, your current employer and the last institution at which you applied for credit. You will also need to include a daytime phone number and signature. You can request in your letter to receive your free credit report by email, but you would also need to include your email address for Veda Advantage to fulfill your request.

4

Visit Dun and Bradstreet Australia's website (see Resources below) and click "Order My Consumer Report" under Credit Reporting.

5

Download the Application for Consumer Credit Report, print it, and fill it out entirely. You will need to provide the same personal information required by Veda Advantage such as your Australia driver's license number. You can pay a $25 fee by credit card or cheque to receive your file within 1 business day, or get a free copy of your credit file by choosing to wait 10 business days.

6

Mail the completed form and enclose payment by cheque if you did not write a credit card number on the form. The form can be sent to Dun & Bradstreet (Australia), Public Access Centre, P.O. Box 7405, St Kilda Rd VIC 3004.