Step 1: Find your contract and paperwork
Gather your contract, any addenda, membership or points certificates, levy statements, finance paperwork and emails or letters from the operator. The exact wording of your contract shapes every option below.
Step 2: Check whether you're still in the cooling-off period
Cooling-off is generally 7 days for clubs that are members of ATHOC (the Australian Timeshare and Holiday Ownership Council) and 14 days for non-members. Check which applied to your purchase — if you're inside the window, cancel in writing immediately and keep proof of sending.
Step 3: Contact your operator in writing
Ask your operator whether they offer surrender, hand-back or hardship options, and what conditions apply (for example, levies being up to date). Ask for any answer in writing, and keep copies of everything.
Every contract is different. Not sure which route fits? Get a free contract review →
Step 4: Check your finance
If you took out a loan to buy your membership, that loan is usually a separate agreement. Exiting the timeshare won't automatically end it — speak with the lender and deal with it separately.
Step 5: If you believe you were mis-sold, consider a complaint
Make a written complaint to the operator first. If you're unhappy with the response, or don't hear back within the required time, you can take it to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).
AFCA is a free, independent service that resolves disputes between consumers and financial firms that are its members. You don't need a lawyer to lodge a complaint.
Step 6: Get a professional review if the free routes stall
If the operator says no and you're unsure about a complaint, a professional review can help you understand whether other options may apply. Our review is free and comes with a written summary. Check my eligibility.
This guide is general information only, not legal or financial advice. Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances and contract.