Hindrance and concealment of vital information by bank staff is obstructing the resolution of alleged outstanding liabilities.

If the people at the bank refuse to talk to you, don’t answer your letters, or fail to address your concerns, this behavior could potentially be seen as hindrance or, in some cases, concealment.

By the way, none of this is legal advice. Proceed with caution.

Hindrance

Hindrance refers to an obstruction or interference with your ability to achieve a legitimate goal or exercise a right. In this case, the bank’s refusal to communicate or address your concerns could be a hindrance in several ways:

  • Impediment to resolving a dispute: e.g., asking for clarification of charges, disputing an error, or seeking transparency about an entry on your bank statement. Their lack of communication might prevent you from resolving the issue or obtaining the information you are entitled to.
  • Obstruction of your rights, such as requesting information, contesting an incorrect charge, or receiving customer support. This could be seen as a hindrance.
  • If you’re actively seeking resolution but the bank’s refusal to communicate or respond creates an obstacle. This affects your legal right to fair treatment or resolution of the issue.

Concealment

Concealment involves hiding or failing to disclose material information that you have a right to know. This could impact your ability to make informed decisions or understand your situation. In this context:
If the bank refuses to explain a charge such as the “loan enforcement expense” on your statement. Or doesn’t identify who authorized the entry. They could be concealing information that you’re entitled to know.
If they are intentionally withholding information, this might be considered concealment. Particularly if they’ve a duty to disclose that information under applicable consumer laws, contract terms, or financial regulations.

Hindrance and concealment by Bank

Hindrance applies if the bank’s failure to respond or address your concerns is preventing you from exercising your legal rights. Or achieving a fair resolution of your dispute.

Concealment applies if bank staff are actively hiding or failing to disclose relevant information to help you understand the transaction or your legal standing.

Legal Implications
Hindrance and concealment can have legal consequences, particularly under consumer protection law (e.g., Australian Consumer Law (ACL) or National Consumer Credit Protection Act).

Hindrance could lead to a claim for breach of consumer protection rights or other legal claims. Because the bank’s failing to provide the service or information to which you’re entitled.

Concealment could lead to allegations of misleading or deceptive conduct (as per Section 18 of the ACL). Especially if you can demonstrate that the bank’s actions or inactions caused you harm or loss.