Effective debt recovery should be an important priority for businesses, delayed payment and bad debts can really hurt, making it difficult for businesses to meet their financial obligations to staff and suppliers.

Debt collections can be a difficult task, often requiring both sensitivity and persistence, most businesses find that they do not have the time or resources required to chase non-payers, recover bad debts or pursue legal action when things go wrong.

Businesses trying to handle their own debt recovery are far more likely to give in and make write-offs which can quickly add up. A good professional debt collection agency can massively improve recovery rates for debt.

Their staff will have the appropriate training to be firm but ethical and they will know how to handle customers with the appropriate tact and sensitivity – this can help your business to avoid any legal trouble.

If you’re considering hiring a professional Debt Collections agency in Melbourne to service your business, then read on below for our comprehensive list on Melbourne’s top 5 firms.

Local Debt Collection Agencies in Melbourne:

#1 JMA Credit Control

JMA Credit Control is a Melbourne institution, having more then 50 years of experience in the debt recovery business they are one of the most knowledgeable teams in the local area. Their philosophy is low stress, low hassle – as the client you can expect a smooth and easy experience when working with them. Their ultimate goal is to make things as simple, and as affordable as they can for you as the client.

When working with them you will work with only one personal Account Manager. Having a single point of contact keeps things simple and ensures your affairs are always handled by someone who knows your business inside and out.

You will have 24/7 access to an online account for report management, communications, lodgements of new accounts and to check in on the status of pending accounts, ensuring you always have peace of mind and valuable information available at the touch of a button.

JMA’s friendly staff are also available to give knowledgeable advice and guidance on all matters related to debt collection. If you’re looking for services beyond just debt recovery2, they also offer services in credit management, credit reporting and human resources.

#2 Marshall Freeman Collections

Marshall Freeman Collections strives for results. Their result-oriented approach might be why they have such an impressive client portfolio, boasting 20,000+ clients on their roster across Victoria, including some very high profile clients.

They are on of the leading firms in Melbourne and have built a great reputation over their 15+ years working in debt collections.

They pride themselves on being highly ethical and compliant and have built trust with their many satisfied clients over the course of many years.

Staff are highly trained to be firm but fair when dealing with collections, and they take the utmost care to be legally compliant.

Marshall Freemans Collections is a member of the associated of credit and collections professionals, showcasing their commitment to ethical practice.

They have a fantastic business offering that includes a free initial appraisal, 24/7 access to collections reports and information and excellent client service from a dedicated Account Manager.

One of the best things about Marshall Freeman Collections is that they will not collect a commission unless the debt has been paid, showing their true commitment to quality work.

#3 Slater Byrne Recoveries

If you’re looking for efficient service from a trusted provider with great reviews and references, then Slater Byrne Recoveries are the way to go. They are highly rated online and well regarded in the Melbourne market with one of the most professional reputations in the industry.

Similar to other agencies in the local area, they offer 24/7 online access to your account details, a dedicated and reliable team and free consultations. They also work on a no commission if debt is unpaid basis. What sets them apart is their offering of free legal advice from their solicitors, which can come in handy when dealing with tricky debt recovery issues.

They also offer some additional services that go the extra mile such as business health check reports, credit consulting and assistance with debt financing or settlements.

The only thing to keep in mind is that Slater Byrne Recoveries does not collect for all industries, as they will not work on accounts for consumer rental debt, gym memberships, childcare or vet services.

If you want to work with a highly recommended debt collections firm, then Slater Byrne Recoveries is a good choice.

#4 Professional Collectors

Professional Collectors located in Melbourne are highly experienced in debt collection, with over 23 years of experience. They are an industry leader firm in Australia and have successfully recovered debts for happy clients ranging from small to large businesses.

They have a well developed understanding of the debt collection process and ensure they keep their clients in the loop at all times by providing clear and concise guidance on the best and most cost-effective way to proceed.

One of the biggest drawcards for choosing Professional Collectors is their clear and simple four-step process. Using their 24/7 online portal clients only need to submit a request online. Professional Collectors will do the rest of the work for you  and process your request inside of an hour, they will then locate the contact for the overdue account and negotiate payment.

They’re no fuss approach takes the burden off of your shoulders in trying to locate non-payers and arrange for payments of debts.

Beyond debt collections services they also offer legal services and advice, investigations services and even in-field debt collections agents.

They have several branches across Melbourne, making them a highly convenient choice for your next firm.

#5 Brodie Collection Services

Brodie Collection Services is a debt collections firm located in Melbourne that prides itself on it’s friendly and professional staff and excellent client service. Unlike many firms, they do not treat you like just another number and you can be assured that you will not be stuck trying to lodge issues through the web. Brodie Collections Services highly trained staff are at your disposal for advice on the handling of your accounts.

Brodie Collections Services stands out from its competitors for it’s transparency in fee’s and rates. Their commission fee of 4% is readily stated on their website, however they work on a no collection, no fee basis.

They are committed to quality and so don’t try to lock you into and advance fee’s or sign up costs and are willing to foot the bill on actions taken on your behalf to VCAT when upgrading to the Magistrates court.

They make it easy to lodge debts via their online portal, or by email.

Brodie Collection Services are ethical and always aware of debtor rights, so you can be assured that you will not risk losing customers when using them to recover your debts.