Ever wondered what your credit was like? Well, as I only realised recently you can check it for free. Although as far as I know this method only applies for Australians.

Here are the steps to order your free credit check, basically you will need to:

1. Visit www.dnbcreditreport.com.au
2. Click on "Credit Check" 
3. Make sure you select "Standard", as although it takes approximately 10 days to process, you'll get it free. Alternatively, if you are in a hurry then you can opt for the fasttrack option (which cost is about 30 dollars incl GST at the moment to apply for). This is more applying for credit reports for job applications, etc.
4. Fill in your details as required and submit.
5. Wait the 10 businesss days for your credit report to be received via snail mail or via email (whichever you have chosen). The 10 business day wait doesn't apply to those who paid for their report - it should be one business day in that case.
6. Receive your credit report via snail mail (home postal address) or via your email address.

Veda Advantage (MyCreditFile) is also another place where you can request a credit report for free (and paid express version at $36.95 incl GST if you need it). Although with the free version you'll need to send a snail mail or fax documents and details to them. http://www.mycreditfile.com.au/home/free-credit-file.dot

If curiously is not a main motivator for you then these are a few other reasons why you might want to check out your credit report (listed on the FAQ page of the Dun and Bradstreet website). 

Why should I obtain a copy of my Credit Report?
Understanding your credit profile is a critical first step when applying for credit.By checking your report you can ensure that lenders are getting a balanced, complete view of your financial health. In addition:

• find out how you and your credit history is being portrayed to prospective credit providers
• verify the information contained within your report to ensure accurate disclosure
• be notified when your credit report is updated and understand how this may affect your credit rating
• protect yourself from identity fraud and be alerted to any potential fraudulent activity occurring in your name
• have the opportunity to add comments to your file with regard to investigation of your credit information

But what I find great about the credit report is that it also gives you information as to who is accessing your credit report, when and if you have any summons, backrupties, defaults, judgements, directorships on your record which can be interesting to observe even if you know you're always doing things right (e.g. paying bills on time, etc.). Knowing that it shouldn't cost you anything except the time to fill in an online application, I think it's handy and always good to make sure things are in order - as you can try fit any errors that might have come about. Anyways, I hope you what you do end up receiving is what you're expecting should be there and enjoy reading your very own credit report! :)