I've just logged into mygov and seen that I now have a $3000 HELP debt. I haven't studied for around 14 years now and haven't had any outstanding debts in relation to education for many years. How can I find out what this debt is for and why it has suddenly appeared? I tried calling the ATO but the machine just says they are too busy and can't answer my call (can't even add me to a queue to answer my call).
Hi @Sirrah
Generally, we’re notified by a third party of the liability. Our responsibility is to administer collection of the compulsory payments.
The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations has an Information about your debt page that provides options on how to find out details of your debt.
Once you determine who the education provider is, you can follow up with them to work out why the debt has been raised.
If you still feel the debt is not true, have a look at our VET FEE-HELP Student Redress Measures page for further action you can take.
We’re not able to remove the debt for you, it must be removed by the third party that has advised us or as an outcome of a disputed debt.
Hi @Sirrah
Generally, we’re notified by a third party of the liability. Our responsibility is to administer collection of the compulsory payments.
The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations has an Information about your debt page that provides options on how to find out details of your debt.
Once you determine who the education provider is, you can follow up with them to work out why the debt has been raised.
If you still feel the debt is not true, have a look at our VET FEE-HELP Student Redress Measures page for further action you can take.
We’re not able to remove the debt for you, it must be removed by the third party that has advised us or as an outcome of a disputed debt.
20 Aug 2026 · 4 min read time
21 Aug 2026 · 2 min read time
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