If your business has had a debt referred to a recovery agency — or if you have recently resolved one — it is natural to feel uncertain about what comes next. This article is for business owners who want to move forward with stronger financial foundations.
1. Review your credit terms with suppliers
Once the debt is resolved, revisit your arrangements with key suppliers. Some may have put your account on prepayment terms while the debt was outstanding. Contact them directly, explain that the matter has been resolved, and ask about reinstating normal credit terms. Being proactive signals good faith.
2. Establish a payment discipline culture
The most powerful thing you can do to rebuild commercial credibility is to pay on time, consistently. Set calendar reminders for due dates. If cash flow is tight, communicate with creditors early rather than letting invoices go past due — most prefer an early heads-up to a late payment with no warning.
3. Request a free credit report and understand it
Your business may have a commercial credit file. You can request a copy from Equifax, illion or Experian. Review it carefully — check that resolved debts are shown as paid, look for any errors, and understand what a prospective supplier or lender will see when they search your business.
4. Set up internal invoice tracking
A simple accounts-payable system — even a spreadsheet — that tracks what is owed, to whom, and when it is due is a foundational control. Many late payments happen not because of cash flow problems but because of poor visibility. Know what you owe, and to whom, at all times.
5. Talk to a financial counsellor or business adviser
If cash flow is the underlying issue, a financial counsellor or small business adviser can help you identify the root cause and build a more sustainable financial model. This support is available free through the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. The Australian Government's Moneysmart website also has resources for small businesses under financial pressure.
There is no shame in having experienced a difficult period. What matters is how you respond to it.
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