The National Hardship Register (NHR) is a joint initiative between the Australian Collectors and Debt Buyers Association Limited (ACDBA) and the community sector to address the serious issue of long-term and severe financial hardship experienced by a small but growing number of vulnerable consumers.

The purpose of the industry funded NHR is to protect those consumers who are experiencing long-term and severe financial hardship from unnecessary debt collection activity.

The NHR initiative addresses the long standing problem of inefficient information flow which prevents early resolution of situations where vulnerable consumers need assistance but debt collectors and financial service providers first need information to be able to understand and respond with such assistance. The solution centres on facilitating the flow of necessary information in a way that does not disadvantage the vulnerable consumer.

The NHR has acted as an efficient and cost-effective mechanism for financial counsellors and industry to avoid futile debt collection activity involving debts for this group of consumers.

After 10 years of operation the NHR will cease accepting applications on 30 June 2023.