As Debt Recovery Officer, you will manage a portfolio of outstanding rates, water charges and miscellaneous accounts. You will review accounts, contact customers, negotiate payment arrangements and progress recovery action in accordance with legislation and Council policy.

The role requires sound judgement, persistence and professionalism, together with the ability to communicate respectfully with customers who may be experiencing financial difficulty.
In this role, you will:

- Review outstanding debt reports and identify accounts requiring follow-up.
- Contact customers regarding overdue rates, water charges and other Council accounts.
- Maintain clear and accurate records of customer contact and recovery action.
- Negotiate and approve payment arrangements in accordance with Council's Debt Recovery Policy.
- Monitor payment arrangements and follow up missed or overdue payments.
- Prepare information for legal recovery action undertaken by Council or its appointed Debt Recovery Agent.
- Liaise with Council's Debt Recovery Agent regarding legal recovery matters.
- Prepare information relating to potential water restriction action.
- Reconcile Debt Recovery Agent invoices and advise Revenue Officers of amounts to be allocated.
- Identify accounts that may qualify for sale of land for unpaid rates action.




- Prepare information required for proof of debt and assist with sale action.
- Prepare monthly status and statistical reports.
- Investigate returned notices and use appropriate databases and authorities to locate updated contact details.
- Respond to customer enquiries by telephone, email and at the customer counter.
- Support the wider Revenue team to provide an efficient and customer-focused service.

You will have experience in debt recovery, financial services or a similar environment, with the confidence to manage difficult conversations and apply Council's policies fairly and consistently.

You will also have:

- A minimum Certificate IV in Accounting, Finance or an equivalent qualification. Diploma-level qualifications will be viewed favourably.
- Demonstrated experience in debt recovery or financial services.
- Experience providing high-quality customer service in situations involving sensitive financial matters.
- A calm, respectful and resilient approach to customer service.
- The ability to negotiate practical outcomes and maintain professional relationships.
- The ability to interpret and apply legislation, policies and procedures.
- Robust analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Experience using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and accounting systems. TechnologyOne experience will be viewed favourably.

📌 Debt Recovery Officer (Taree)
🏢 MidCoast Council
📍 Taree