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Former VET FEE-HELP (VFH) Scheme
The former VET FEE-HELP (VFH) Scheme operated between 2008 and 2016. Existing VFH students could continue to access the scheme until 31 December 2018.
In 2017, VFH was replaced by the VET Student Loans program.
Repaying your VFH loans
Loan repayments are made through the ATO. Information about loan repayments and the compulsory repayment threshold can be found at Loan repayment – Study Assist, Australian Government.
Advice on how to view your ATO loan account can be found at View your loan account online | Australian Taxation Office.
Disputing your VFH debt
Contact your training provider
If you have a concern or complaint about your VFH study or debt, you should first discuss your concerns with your training provider, if they are still operating.
Contact the Department
There are circumstances under which the Department can re-credit your VFH loan debt.
- Special circumstances
- Unacceptable conduct
- Tuition Assurance
You can start the re-credit process using the online enquiry form at Student Enquiries.
Special Circumstance loan re-credit
If something happened that was beyond your control (such as serious illness) that meant you were unable to continue your studies, you may be able to apply for a ‘special circumstance’ loan re-credit. Applications must be made to your provider (if still operating) in the first instance. The department may be able to consider your application if your provider is unable to act or they are closed. You must provide evidence to show why you were unable to apply within 12 months of your study.
Unacceptable Conduct loan re-credit
You may be able to apply for re-credit if your provider engaged in unacceptable conduct after 1 January 2016.
Unacceptable conduct includes such things as harassment or conduct that is misleading or deceptive.
Tuition Assurance loan re-credit
If you were unable to complete your studies because your provider closed, and you were not assisted to find another training provider to complete your studies, you may be able to apply for a Tuition Assurance loan re-credit. To consider your application, you must have been actively studying (or formally deferred) at the time your provider closed.
Waiver of debt
If you have ongoing concerns with your VFH debt that you have been unable to resolve, you have the option to lodge a waiver of debt with the Department of Finance. Further information on this process is available at Waiver of Debt on the Department of Finance website.
Contact the VET Student Loans Ombudsman (VSLO)
If you are unable to resolve your concern, you can contact the VSLO.