Many people face financial hardship in their lifetime, often with no fault of their own. Losing a job, stopping work due to illness, injury, family events, or being faced with a large unforeseen expense are some examples. 

The DEFT payment system offers various payment options and payment scheduling arrangements. You can find their details on the bottom of your levy notice.

If you feel you may be unable to keep up with any levy payments due, we may be able to assist you to come to an arrangement with your Strata Company and help overcome any problems you may be facing. 

Levy notices are sent out approximately one month in advance of the payment due date. This allows most people plenty of time to schedule their payment. Please contact us as soon as you know you’re experiencing difficulties. Ignoring the issue may make matters worse, especially if the Council of the Strata Company instruct us to commence the Strata Company’s Debt Recovery Procedure. Where no or only partial payment is received by the due date and after the expiry of the 14 days grace period, interest accrues as a rate of 11% p.a. All interest incurred is paid directly to the Strata Company and not to ESM.

For many schemes, the levies raised are only sufficient to cover the annual budget, and there is very little left in the way of surplus funds. Therefore, non-payment of levies by a lot owner can impact the Strata Company adversely, leaving it unable to pay its regular expenses.
 

If you are experiencing financial hardship, please go to this link and complete the application form. The Council of the Strata Company will assess your situation and proposal and then make a decision.

Often, they’ll be far more likely to approve a payment plan, when they are advised of the situation, prior to a lot owner falling into arrears.
 

Some of the options may include pausing any debt recovery action or paying a smaller sum each fortnight/month until you’re able to get back on track.