Warning to SPER debtors as enforcement teams launch Gold Coast blitz

SPER enforcement officers have launched a massive blitz on the Gold Coast, hunting down debtors and threatening to seize vehicles. These are the suburbs they’re targeting.

Luxury SUVs, boats and jet skis are some of the items facing seizure during a major blitz by SPER officers on the Gold Coast this week.

SPER enforcement director Kim Easton said teams of officers were hunting down debtors at their homes and workplaces and would seize their vehicles if they failed to pay.

“SPER officers are carrying out a field enforcement operation across the region, including Southport, Nerang, Robina, Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta, to encourage debtors to pay the money they owe the people of Queensland,” Mr Easton said.

“Our officers are visiting debtors at their home or workplace and those people that refuse to pay their debts will face tough action.

“This includes having money taken from their wages or bank accounts through garnishment powers or having their cars clamped, seized and sold to meet their obligations.”

A SPER enforcement officer seizing a vehicle.

State government statistics show that as of September just over $150 million was owed by more than 70,000 people on the Gold Coast in SPER debts, with 471,586 penalties outstanding.

The leading source of SPER debts are speeding and parking tickets, which account for 201,254 of the outstanding penalties.

Unpaid tolls, fare evasion and other driving offences make up the bulk of remaining penalties.

A SPER enforcement officer clamping a vehicle.

Mr Easton said officers would not hesitate to seize cars and other luxury goods if debts were not paid.

“Through operations like these, SPER has seized a range of property from people refusing

to pay their debt,” he said.

“This includes luxury SUVs, hi-spec utes and motorbikes, trucks, boats, trailers and jetskis.

“If you have a SPER debt, you need to pay it now because the consequences are serious.

“SPER debts don’t go away – they will catch up with you.”

A SPER officer seizing a vehicle.

Mr Easton said anyone on the Gold Coast with an outstanding debt should contact SPER to arrange payment before they faced enforcement action.

“SPER has contacted thousands of people in the region to remind them of their outstanding

debts and the need to deal with it – one final chance to do the right thing before we’re forced

to take strong action,” he said.

“ … Anyone who is having trouble paying for whatever reason should contact SPER on 1300

365 635 to discuss their payment options and avoid enforcement action.”

Follow @keithjwoods