What is the PPSR?

The Personal Properties Security Register (PPSR) is the single, national online database of security interests in personal property in Australia. Think of it as a register of security interests in property – for example a bank might register interest over a car to ensure that a loan is paid.

• You can register security interest in property if someone owes you money
• You can check if there is a registered interest on something you want to buy

Is this important for business?

Yes! Personal property is a legal term that refers to any property that IS NOT land, buildings, fixtures or fittings. Examples of personal property includes:

• cash, artwork, motor vehicles, crops, boats, aircraft, equipment
• intangible property such as patents, licences and financial property

How can the PPSR protect my business?

There are two key ways that the PPSR can lower your business risk

When buying goods

Searching the register (particularly for second hand goods) can help you determine if the person or entity has clear title and is entitled to sell you the item. If there is a prior interest, the goods could be repossessed.

When selling on terms (such as retention of title, hire or lease)

If you register your interest and your customer becomes insolvent, it will reduce your risk of losing the goods because the register legally defines the priority of interests.

Can’t I just keep doing what I’m doing now?

Retention of Title clauses are no longer sufficient to establish ownership by themselves, and the PPSR legislation has implications for hire and rental arrangements that you should familiarise yourself with.

How much does it cost?

It is just $4.00 to perform a search, and registrations start at $8.00

More information

You can visit the PPSR website at www.ppsr.gov.au or call them on 300 007 777

And of course our friendly team would be happy to assist (including performing searches or registrations on your behalf).

Lloyd Priddle

Lloyd has had a very successful career as an accountant, director and author for almost 40 years. Holding post-graduate qualifications in Business, Lloyd has specialised in Business Development, and worked with the Queensland Government and local councils on numerous occasions through association with AusIndustry and the SBAS Natural Disaster Assistance Program. He is also board member of a number of commercial and not-for-profit entities.