On 26 May 2026, the VHT Attorneys team had the opportunity to attend the DCASA Gauteng Branch Meeting, an insightful and engaging industry event bringing together debt counsellors, attorneys, credit providers, payment distribution agents, credit bureaus, and other key stakeholders within the debt review industry.
Representing VHT Attorneys were Anuschka Jennings, Matthew Upton, Jarod Jacobs, and Casper Lourens. As attorneys working closely with debt counsellors and consumers in obtaining debt review court orders, as well as assisting consumers with debt review removal applications, the event provided valuable insight into the evolving debt review landscape, current regulatory developments, operational challenges, and future-focused solutions shaping the industry.
Beyond the presentations and technical discussions, the day created an excellent opportunity to connect and network with industry role players, exchange ideas, and strengthen professional relationships across the sector. It was refreshing to step away from the day-to-day office environment and spend time engaging with others who are equally passionate about improving outcomes within the debt review industry.
The event covered a wide range of topics, including National Consumer Tribunal processes, DCRS developments, digital compliance, consumer protection, restructuring frameworks, credit bureau considerations, technology solutions, and the future direction of debt review in South Africa.
A Welcoming and Interactive Start
The day opened with a welcome from Leandie Brink from Gauteng Debt Counselling (GDC), who immediately set an energetic and engaging tone for the meeting. Leandie forms part of DCASA’s National Executive Committee (NEC), led by DCASA President, Casper le Grange. As the registered debt counsellor for Gauteng Debt Counselling, she runs the company with consumers firmly at the centre of the business, focusing on meaningful assistance and responsible debt rehabilitation.
Rather than moving straight into formal presentations, attendees participated in a fun interactive icebreaker game designed to encourage participation and networking among delegates.
The activity required attendees to clap in sequence without clapping at the same time as another participant. Those who clapped simultaneously were eliminated, with the final three participants receiving small prizes. The exercise created a relaxed atmosphere and encouraged interaction before the formal sessions commenced.
Guardians of Fairness
DCASA Industry Updates and Strategic Developments
Vanessa Johst presented the DCASA updates, which covered several important developments currently affecting the debt review industry.
One of the key discussion points was DCASA’s formal application for SACCRA membership. This development is aimed at strengthening industry representation and creating more proactive engagement within the credit reporting and debt review environment. Membership would allow DCASA to participate in discussions affecting debt review data, influence how debt review statuses are reflected at credit bureaus, raise systemic issues, establish direct communication channels, and gain early insight into bureau rule changes.
The presentation also highlighted DCASA’s continued engagement with the Department of Justice. The DCASA President has reportedly been invited to participate in magistrate training sessions relating to the debt review process, with initial training initiatives expected in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape.
Additional updates included:
- DCRS jumbo loans continuing to receive priority attention,
- anticipated progress on TTA Version 2,
- reckless lending proposals being referred back to the NCR for consideration,
- and ongoing discussions surrounding debt counsellor fee reviews.
Vanessa also noted that DCASA is currently in the process of registering as a professional body, with additional benefits anticipated for members in future.
The presentation reflected a clear shift toward greater industry collaboration, regulatory engagement, and proactive participation in shaping the future of debt review.
National Consumer Tribunal Engagement
Hosea Masinga from the National Consumer Tribunal (NCT) provided an extensive presentation on the Tribunal’s mandate, debt re-arrangement applications, filing processes, and common issues experienced within debt review applications.
The presentation reinforced the NCT’s role under Section 26 of the National Credit Act and its jurisdiction throughout South Africa. Hosea discussed the Tribunal’s expanded mandate, including matters relating to reckless credit, prohibited conduct, payment distribution agents, and ADR agents.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on Debt Re-Arrangement Applications (DRAs), with emphasis placed on the Tribunal’s scrutiny of repayment proposals and settlement agreements. Key concerns identified included:
- unlawful or excessive interest rates,
- repayment periods extending beyond reasonable working life expectancy,
- unaffordable repayment structures,
- insufficient provision for consumers’ living expenses,
- and instances where proposals may not fully settle debts.
The session also provided valuable operational guidance on:
- e-filing procedures,
- e-purse accounts,
- manual filing requirements,
- fee waiver requests,
- opposition procedures,
- and withdrawal processes.
Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of complete and accurate documentation. Hosea encouraged debt counsellors to make use of Circulars 7 and 9 as filing checklists to reduce refusals and improve filing quality.
The NCT also highlighted the benefits of the CMS e-filing platform, including improved accessibility, reduced turnaround times, electronic adjudication, and improved application quality control.
Consumer Protection and Credit Life Insurance
DC Credit Protect presented on credit life insurance solutions tailored for consumers under debt review.
The discussion focused on the role of credit life insurance in protecting financially vulnerable consumers while also creating sustainable support structures within debt review. The presentation explored how appropriate insurance products can contribute toward financial stability and continuity for consumers navigating rehabilitation processes.
DC Credit Protect also discussed long-term partnership models with debt counsellors and the creation of annuity-based revenue opportunities within compliant frameworks.
remove debt review
Future-Proofing the Debt Counselling Industry Through Technology
One of the standout presentations of the day came from Tai Kalua of Datanamix, who delivered a highly insightful presentation on technology, compliance, and the future of digital debt counselling operations.
The presentation focused heavily on the growing importance of audit defensibility and due diligence within an increasingly digital environment.
Topics discussed included:
- digital signatures,
- workflow automation,
- document storage,
- OCR technology,
- identity verification,
- bank account verification,
- comprehensive credit reporting,
- and 3D facial biometric solutions.
A major focus area was the growing compliance gap between digital onboarding convenience and regulatory expectations.
The presentation raised critical questions around:
- whether digitally signed Form 16 documents alone are sufficient for lawful credit bureau access,
- whether debt counsellors can sufficiently verify consumer identity,
- and whether informed consent can be properly evidenced under audit scrutiny.
Datanamix also highlighted NCR audit observations involving:
- unverifiable consent,
- overreliance on WhatsApp communication,
- unclear prescribed purpose,
- and lead generation practices triggering bureau enquiries without proper audit trails.
The discussion reinforced the growing expectation that digital compliance processes must not only exist, but must also be provable, auditable, and defensible.
FirstRand on Debt Review Processes and Concessions
Charlene Antoni from FirstRand provided important insight into debt review restructuring frameworks, legal considerations, and concession structures.
One of the key points raised was the legal position regarding withdrawal from debt review. The presentation reinforced that debt review is a statutory process rather than a cancellable contract, and that voluntary withdrawal mechanisms do not currently exist outside lawful court-driven processes.
The discussion referenced the legal interpretation established in matters such as Van Vuuren v Roets, as well as NCR Guideline 01/2021.
Important operational discussions included:
- disputed debt review applications,
- proof of application requirements,
- NCR complaint investigations,
- debt review status removals,
- and improved financial circumstances applications before court orders are granted.
Charlene also discussed:
- finance charge reduction concessions,
- interest rate structures,
- term extension limits,
- mortgage restructuring parameters,
- vehicle finance concessions,
- and unsecured debt rehabilitation periods.
The presentation provided practical guidance to debt counsellors on realistic restructuring expectations and compliance alignment within the debt review framework.
I am totally satisfied with the service of VHT Attorneys. Thank you. I appreciate your help with my case and the speedy response.
DCRS Training and Industry Standardisation
Casper le Grange presented training relating to DCRS proposals and the NCR Task Team Agreement framework.
The training reinforced that DCRS is not simply a software tool, but rather a structured concession framework developed by industry stakeholders to support:
- realistic restructuring,
- fair concessions,
- eventual debt rehabilitation,
- and improved proposal acceptance rates.
The session emphasised the importance of proper DCRS implementation in promoting consistency, fairness, and sustainable debt review outcomes.
Consumer Friend and DREX Portal Developments
Chantelle Rouseau from Consumer Friend presented updates relating to the DREX portal and upcoming operational improvements.
The session focused on:
- improved accessibility,
- registration processes,
- support structures,
- and ongoing enhancements aimed at improving workflow efficiency for debt counsellors using the platform.
The presentation aligned strongly with the broader event themes of digital transformation and operational improvement within debt review.
A Human-Centred Perspective from iPDA
Tiaan Hattingh from iPDA delivered one of the more personal and reflective presentations of the day.
Using the analogy of coffee beans and the grinding process, the presentation explored how financial hardship can either leave consumers feeling bitter and defeated, or, with the correct support and guidance, help shape them into something stronger and more meaningful.
The presentation served as an important reminder that beyond compliance frameworks, legal procedures, and operational systems, debt review ultimately remains a process centred around rehabilitation, dignity, and helping consumers rebuild their financial futures.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded with discussions around upcoming DCASA initiatives, including the planned 2026 conference and golf day events, which aim to further strengthen collaboration and engagement across the debt review industry.
Overall, the DCASA Gauteng Branch Meeting highlighted both the challenges and opportunities currently shaping the debt review landscape in South Africa. From regulatory developments and legal compliance to technology, operational efficiency, and consumer rehabilitation, the discussions reflected an industry actively working toward stronger collaboration, improved standards, and better outcomes for consumers.
For the VHT Attorneys team, the day was not only informative and insightful, but also a valuable opportunity to reconnect with industry colleagues, build relationships, and engage with the broader debt review community outside of the normal pressures of daily practice.
Marno Du Plessis
Attorney
WHO ARE WE AT VHT
VHT Attorneys is a boutique law firm with a large vision. We provide innovative legal solutions with a renowned standard of integrity and confidentiality.
We help our clients:
- Remove Debt Review Status
- Commercial & Corporate Law
- Labour Law
- Dispute Resolution / Litigation