New tool in debt collectors’ arsenal to make job safer

Enforcement officers who chase down unpaid fines and tolls owed to taxpayers will be safer under new laws to be presented to Parliament.

Enforcement officers who chase down unpaid fines and tolls owed to taxpayers will be given the power to wear body-worn cameras to protect themselves.

The powers are included in new laws introduced to Parliament yesterday, which also aim to streamline the fine collection process in a bid to recover millions of dollars faster.

The laws will bring the State Penalties Enforcement Registry into line with other enforcement agencies in Queensland by giving their officers the power to wear body-worn cameras.

SPER officers are responsible for taking enforcement action against Queenslanders who have not paid their fines and tolls – and can take steps such as seizing property and immobilising vehicles.

Officers have already quietly worn cameras at times, but the law change will give them the authority to do so.

The explanatory notes for the legislation acknowledge there may be some issues about the “rights and liberties” of individuals – but these are outweighed by the “public interest”.

This is because the cameras could reduce conflicts between SPER enforcement officers and debtors, as well as boost the accountability of the officers themselves.

Treasurer Cameron Dick in Question Time yesterday. Picture: Liam Kidston

Treasurer Cameron Dick yesterday included the changes in a wide-ranging Bill that will see the state’s fine management system integrated further with the Queensland Revenue Office.

“Queensland taxpayers expect that if someone owes them money, it should be paid back – and that’s what these changes are all about,” Mr Dick said.

“We want people to pay what they owe, and to pay it as soon as possible after they incur a fine.

“It’s all about accelerating the collection of funds owed to Queenslanders so they can be used on road upgrades, hospitals and schools, as well as critical road safety, healthcare and emergency services our community needs.”

Mr Dick said the proposed law changes would also allow SPER to start their debt collection activities sooner when a fine hasn’t been paid by its due date.

It will also make clear that SPER can recover the costs of their enforcement activities through the sales of seized property.

The legislation will be debated by the Parliament at a later date.