Video chapters
Quick answer
Gather proof of ownership and the other person's refusal, send a written demand identifying each item and a safe collection proposal, and do not trespass or use force. If the property is not returned, the remedy and forum depend on the relationship, value and state or territory.
What to do
- Prove — Collect receipts, registration, photos and messages
- Demand — List each item, deadline and safe collection method
- Protect — Use police assistance or a third party where safety requires
- Claim — Seek return of the item or its value in the right forum
Transcript
Someone is refusing to return your car, pet or belongings. Begin with proof: receipts, registration, microchip records, photographs, bank entries and messages showing who owns the item, why the other person has it and when return was requested. Possession alone does not always decide ownership.
Send a calm written demand listing each item, the basis of your claim, a reasonable deadline and a practical collection method. Preserve delivery and any refusal. Do not trespass, threaten, disable a vehicle remotely or force entry. If safety is an issue, ask police or a support service about supervised collection.
Civil law may provide a claim for return of goods or compensation for wrongful interference. The court or tribunal and monetary limit depend on the state, value and remedy. A vehicle may also involve registration, finance or insurance. Animal welfare concerns should be reported promptly to the appropriate authority.
If the other person is a spouse or de facto partner, the item may be part of a wider family-law property settlement. Existing protection orders can also control contact and collection. Get advice before starting a small claim that may overlap with family court proceedings or before disposing of disputed property.
A lawyer can assess ownership, urgency, the proper forum and whether to seek return, value or both. Go To Court can provide free general information and arrange a civil or family-law consultation where a suitable lawyer is available. The contact details are on your screen.
Sources and further help
Sources checked 3 September 2026.
Important
This video provides general information about property recovery and family law in Australia. It is not legal advice and does not take account of your circumstances. Laws, procedures, fees and time limits can change, and state or territory rules may apply. Get advice from a qualified lawyer about your situation.