Frequently Asked Questions

If a process server cannot locate you after several attempts, they may apply to the court for substituted service. This could allow them to serve you via email, post, or by delivering the documents to your last known address. Avoiding service won’t stop legal action—it can lead to a default judgment.

In Australia, a process server may enter private property to attempt service as long as they do not enter locked or restricted areas. They cannot force entry into a home, and must respect privacy laws. Laws vary by state, but excessive trespass may be unlawful.

Ignoring a process server doesn't stop legal proceedings. If you fail to respond or avoid service, the court may proceed without you and issue a default judgment. This can impact your credit rating, result in financial orders, or lead to enforcement actions.

Most professional process servers make between 3 to 5 attempts at service, at different times and days. If these attempts fail, they will document their efforts and may apply to the court for alternative service.

To become a process server in Australia, you must be over 18 and may need to obtain a licence depending on the state—such as a Commercial Agent licence in NSW or QLD. Joining a professional association like AIMPAC offers access to training, insurance, and work opportunities.

Yes. Hiring a licensed private investigator is legal in Australia. Investigators must hold a valid state-issued license and comply with privacy, surveillance, and evidence laws.

Licensed private investigators can conduct surveillance, locate missing persons, gather evidence for legal matters, and perform background checks—provided they stay within legal limits. They cannot impersonate others, hack devices, or access confidential government records.

Costs vary based on the complexity and duration of the investigation. Most private investigators charge between $80 to $150 per hour, with some offering fixed-price services for specific tasks like background checks or process serving.

No. Private investigators cannot legally access private phone records, bank accounts, or any protected financial information. Doing so would breach privacy laws. Investigators rely on legal, ethical, and open-source intelligence (OSINT) methods.

Yes. All private investigators in Australia must hold a current Investigators Licence issued by their respective state or territory’s licensing authority. Working without a licence is illegal and can lead to prosecution.

Yes, licensed investigators may conduct physical surveillance, including following a person, as long as it is done legally and discreetly. They cannot trespass, harass, or stalk individuals—surveillance must remain compliant with Australian laws.

To become a licensed private investigator in Australia, you typically need to complete a Certificate III in Investigative Services, pass a police check, and apply for a licence with your state authority. AIMPAC members gain access to compliance training and industry guidance.

Yes. Many investigators specialise in domestic investigations, including infidelity. They gather surveillance evidence, track activity patterns, and provide clients with detailed reports that can be used in legal proceedings like family court.

In most Australian states, it is illegal to record a private conversation unless you are a party to the conversation. Private investigators must be careful not to breach listening device laws, which differ by state and carry serious penalties.

Debt collectors can contact you to recover outstanding debts but must follow strict guidelines under the ACCC and ASIC Debt Collection Guidelines. They cannot harass, threaten, or mislead you, and must respect your privacy and contact preferences.

According to regulatory guidelines, debt collectors should not contact you more than 3 times per week or 10 times per month. All contact must be made at reasonable hours and never in a harassing or excessive manner.

Yes, but it must comply with state and territory surveillance laws. Private investigators must not trespass, use hidden audio recording devices without consent (in most states), or breach any privacy legislation.

CPD (Continuing Professional Development) helps investigators and field agents stay up to date with laws, best practices, and compliance obligations. Many licensing bodies and employers require CPD points each year to maintain professional standards.

AIMPAC members can earn CPD points by completing compliance courses, attending webinars, participating in approved workshops, and uploading external training activities through their member dashboard. AIMPAC offer free compliance courses to members, a current list of free courses can be found on our member benefits page.