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What is Debt Bondage?

Debt bondage is when a debt is used to control pressure, control or force another person to do things for them. You may be told that you owe money, drugs or items that were given to you and later described as a debt. Over time, the amount you are said to owe can change or increase. Even if you try to pay it back, you may be told that the debt is not cleared.  

This can create a cycle where the debt never seems to end and is used to keep pressure and control.  

Debt Bondage is different than normal debt

Unlike normal debt, the rules and the amount owed may change at any time. The total you’re told you owe might be unclear or even completely made up, making it difficult to understand or challenge. It can also be used as a tool to threaten, manipulate, and control you, rather than functioning as a legitimate financial obligation.
Common signs include:
  • You are given money, items or help that later become debt 
  • Something is described as free, a favour or a gift  
  • Then, you are told you owe money because something was lost or taken  
  • The situation changes without clear explanation  
  • The amount you are said to owe keeps changing or never seems to end, even if you pay 
  • Repeated messages or calls demanding payment or action  
  • Feeling watched, controlled or unable to say no  
  • Threats or pressure that make you feel scared, unsafe or constantly worried 

It’s important to remember

  • A debt should not be used to scare, threaten or control you  
  • If the rules keep changing or the debt never ends, this is not your fault  
  • Feeling unable to say no is a sign of exploitation  
  • Help is available 

Getting support

If you are worried about yourself or someone else, you do not have to deal with it alone. 

Call or text us at 116 000 for confidential support and advice.