![engagement_charter_-_icons_complainants Complainants](/sites/default/files/styles/afca_profile/public/2021-06/engagement_charter_-_icons_complainants.png?itok=rmIaUegC)
AFCA provides a free service for people to complain about financial products and services. Complainants may withdraw their AFCA complaint at any time – See AFCA Rule A.1.4. However, those who wish to use AFCA do so subject to the Rules and our expectations outlined in this Charter.
A complainant must provide a reasonable basis for their complaint and be willing to provide information at our request to support their position.
AFCA expects complainants to:
- act fairly in lodging a complaint including not lodging complaints that are frivolous or vexatious or without merit
- co-operate with our investigations including providing all information and evidence requested within the set timeframes, if this is available
- actively participate in the complaint resolution process including genuinely considering possible remedies offered by a financial firm
- not contribute to delays in resolving a complaint.
AFCA understands that many people will be unfamiliar with how we operate – individuals and small businesses can work with us effectively by telling us if they:
- have specific communication needs, like the National Relay Service or an interpreter, including Auslan
- would like to authorise someone to help them, such as a friend or family member
- would like us to explain each step of the process
- need more time to provide information.