The State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) is a body that is responsible for the collection and enforcement of unpaid fines and penalties. If fines and penalties are not paid, they are referred to SPER. Or sometimes they are referred to SPER to allow payment plans.
SPER Debt can start as any of the following:
- An unpaid infringement notice (speeding or parking ticket).
- A court ordered penalty.
- An offender levy.
- An offender debt recovery notice.
How Do I Know If I have SPER Debt?
If you have received a court ordered fine the magistrate will explicitly state if the infringement was referred to SPER. If you are unaware if other fines and penalties have been referred to SPER due to no payment or any other reason you can find this information out on the Queensland Government State Penalties Enforcement Registry. Simply go onto the website and click “Pay and Manage Your SPER Debt.” Then provide your unique SPER number and you can view all your relevant information. You can also access this information via the SPER App.
Is It Beneficial To have Fines and Penalties Referred To SPER?
In instances where you cannot afford to pay a fine or penalty, SPER can be beneficial. It may mean that you are be able to set up a payment plan for the amount owing. To be eligible for a payment plan there are certain elements to be satisfied, however, these elements are very broad and cover a large range of people.
Like any other enforcement agency if the amount has not completely been paid by the date outlined enforcement actions will take place.
This can look like any of the following:
- Enforcement fee of $131.05.
- Suspension of driver’s licence.
- Clamp, sell or seize your vehicle.
With any fine or penalty it is always beneficial to pay the amount upfront. However, if this is not an option for you SPER can help.
