Legal Aid cleared $200,000 in coerced domestic abuse debt in one year
Legal Aid NSW waived almost $200,000 in financial abuse debt, freeing victims from a control tool abusers used.
Kelly escaped an abusive relationship with $12,500 in debt her ex-husband had forced her to take on. Kelly's ex-husband had stolen rent money and spent it on drugs.
The ex-husband told Kelly the bills were paid, but they were not. Kelly had nothing when she fled.
Legal Aid NSW's Domestic Violence Unit found she was a victim of financial abuse. They helped her clear the debt by working with lenders.
Financial abuse is a pattern of controlling someone's money. It can trap victims for years.
Legal Aid said it waived almost $200,000 in such debts in the 2025-6 financial year alone. This included bank loans, credit card bills and other debts.
Survivors often leave relationships without knowing about debts in their names. Their abuser may have forged them.
Legal Aid pairs lawyers, financial counselors and social workers to help survivors. They identify forced debts and work with lenders to cancel them.
- Almost $200,000 in 2025-6
- Debt waived
- $12,500
- Kelly's cleared debt
- Legal Aid NSW, Sydney
- Location
Why it mattersFinancial abuse traps victims even after they escape. Knowing that debt can be waived is key. It removes a major barrier to leaving and rebuilding.
AustraliaAustralian domestic abuse survivors can contact Legal Aid NSW (1800 979 529) to access debt-relief support and legal help.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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