What should I do if I think I have been scammed in Australia?

What to do if you think you've been scammed in Australia

If you believe you've been scammed, act quickly. Here are the steps to take:

Immediate actions

• Stop contact – Do not send more money or personal information
• Keep evidence – Save all messages, emails, receipts, and transaction records
• Contact your bank – Report the fraud immediately if money was transferred. They may be able to recover funds
• Change passwords – Update passwords for any accounts that may be compromised

Report the scam

Report to Scamwatch (the official Australian government scam reporting service):

• Visit scamwatch.gov.au
• Report online or call 1300 795 995
• This helps authorities track scam patterns

Report to local police:

• File a report with NSW Police (or your state police) at police.nsw.gov.au
• You can report online or visit your local station
• Get a police report number for insurance or bank claims

Report to the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission):

• Visit accc.gov.au for consumer rights advice
• Report misleading or deceptive conduct

If it involves your workplace or visa

• Report wage theft or exploitation to fairwork.gov.au or call 13 13 94
• Report visa fraud to immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

Get support

• Contact Fair Trading NSW for consumer complaints (1300 135 556)
• Seek free legal advice from community legal centres
• Contact your embassy or consulate if you're an international student or migrant

This is general information only. Check official sources before acting.