Donna Jones
Wide Bay 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 $600,000 in unpaid fines and penalties from debtors across Wide Bay and payment plan commitments of a further $2.3 million.
SPER Enforcement Director Kim Easton said the operation resulted in the seizure of 20 vehicles in Wide Bay alone.
“In Wide Bay, officers seized vehicles in Gympie, Hervey Bay and Bundaberg,” he said.
“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 (seized across Wide Bay and Central Queensland) 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,” he said.
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,” he said.