Wide Bay and Central Queensland residents with outstanding SPER debts have had their vehicles clamped and seized as part of the latest field enforcement operation by the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) to recover unpaid fines.
SPER’s field enforcement officers recovered more than $1 million in unpaid fines and penalties from debtors across Wide Bay and Central Queensland and payment plan commitments of a further $4.2 million.
SPER Enforcement Director Kim Easton said the operation resulted in the seizure of 40 vehicles, including 20 in each of Wide Bay and Central Queensland.
“In Wide Bay, officers seized vehicles in Gympie, Hervey Bay and Bundaberg, while in Central Queensland, seizure operations were conducted in Gladstone and Rockhampton,” he said.
“This includes hi-spec utes, such as a Holden Maloo, high-end 4WDs (such as Toyota Landcruisers) and two boats.
“Most of the owners of these vehicles have now paid their debts, however there are still some who continue to avoid their obligations.
“Nine of these vehicles will be sold at auction because the owners refused to pay.”
Mr Easton said there was a simple way to avoid this type of enforcement action.
“The best thing to do is pay your fine on time, otherwise our officers will take the necessary steps to enforce the law,” he said.
“If you don’t act, you can have money taken from your wages or bank account or have SPER officers visit you at your home or workplace to seize your vehicle to recover what you owe.
“SPER debts are money owed to all Queenslanders, including victims of crime, so if you refuse to pay you can expect to face tough action.”
Mr Easton said SPER is always willing to have a conversation with people about their debt, but they need to act.
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.