New fines enforcement unit has already reaped in $15m for SA Government
A NEW enforcement unit, which is cracking down on fine dodgers, has raked in more than $15 million for the SA Government since being set up in January.
A NEW enforcement unit, which is cracking down on fine dodgers, has raked in more than $15 million for the SA Government since being set up in January.
The new team has generated a 17 per cent, or $2 million, increase in recovered funds since its introduction, according to new State Government figures.
Attorney-General John Rau today said the Fines Enforcement and Recovery Unit had banked more than $15 million since its doors opened in January.
It had collected 17 per cent more by March 31 than the $13 million recovered in the same period last year, he said.
Mr Rau said the unit was expected to recovered $90 million for the current financial year.
It can suspend driver’s licences, seize property, and deduct funds from wages and salaries to ensure money owed is paid back.
MORE: Traffic fine revenue up $13m
Mr Rau said the unit had received 55,000 phone calls from debtors compared to 36,000 the year prior.
“The new unit has focused on making it easier for people to pay their fines,” he said. “We have seen more people being proactive and getting on top of their debt before it severely escalates.”
Mr Rau said about 400 fine dodgers per day were being given notice that their licences were to be suspended. They were then given 14 days notice to make contact with the unit to begin paying.
The Fines Enforcement and Recovery Unit is responsible for collecting fines for more than 100 agencies including local councils, SA Police and several State Government departments.
It is managing $264 million in overdue fines.
For more information about the unit, including fine payment options, visit www.fines.sa.gov.au or call 1800 659 538.