Credit repair

Last updated: 31 August 2026

What you can fix

Here are some of the typical errors in credit reports. 

Errors by the credit reporting agency

The credit reporting agency may have reported your information wrongly. For example:

• your name, date of birth or address needs updating
• a debt is listed twice
• the amount of a debt is wrong

Errors by the lender

A lender may have reported information wrongly. For example, they:

• incorrectly listed that a payment of $150 or more was overdue by 60 days or more
• did not notify you about an unpaid debt
• listed a default (an overdue debt) while you were in dispute about it
• didn't show that they had agreed to put a payment plan in place or change the contract terms
• created an account by mistake or as a result of identity theft

How to get a credit report error fixed

To fix an error on your credit report you can contact either the credit reporting agency or the lender. They are both required to help you complete your request. 

If you can’t reach agreement or you’re not happy with the outcome, contact the Australian Financial Complaints Authority  (AFCA) to make a complaint and get free, independent dispute resolution. Learn more about making a credit reporting complaint.  

If you're struggling to get something fixed, you can contact a free financial counsellor for help.  

What you can't change or remove

You can't change or remove any information on your credit report that's correct — even if it's negative information.

For example:

• All payments you've made during the last two years on credit cards, loans or bills, whether you paid on time or not.
• Payments of $150 or more that are overdue by 60 days or more - these stay on your report for five years, even after you've paid them off.
• All applications for credit cards, store cards, home loans, personal loans and business loans - these stay on your report for five years.
• Buy Now Pay Later applications also trigger a credit check!

For a full list, see what's in your credit report.

Check before you use a credit repair company

You may see ads from credit repair companies offering to fix errors on your credit report about credit products (like credit cards).

Before you go ahead, check the credit repair company is licensed on ASIC’s website. Choose 'Credit Licensee' or 'Credit Representative' in the drop-down menu when you search.

Only deal with a licensed credit repair company.

How to improve your credit rating

Improving your credit rating is a steady process, but small, consistent steps can make a real difference. It helps to stay organised, pay attention to your accounts and make choices that show you can manage money well.  

• pay your bills on time, as regular on‑time payments show strong money habits
• keep your credit card balance low so you are not using most of your limit
• check your credit report each year and fix any errors you find
• limit new credit applications, as too many in a short time can lower your score
• set up reminders or direct debits to help you stay on track with payments. 

As you do these things, your credit score will start to improve. So, you'll be more likely to be approved next time you apply for a loan or credit. 

If you're struggling to pay bills and are getting into more debt, read our tips on what you can do about it. And talk to a free financial counsellor. They can take you through the options and help you make a plan.

Visit our cost of living hub for practical help with Moneysmart’s tools, calculators and tips. There are suggestions and links to help you cut expenses, manage your budget and find support.