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Privacy / T & C's |
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PRIVACY (T & C's)
Private Counselling Services comply with the Privacy Legislation Acts of the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments of Australia, and in accordance with the Acts, we recognise each person’s right to privacy and confidentiality. Your privacy is important to us, and maintaining confidentiality at the highest level is paramount. As such: Only relevant personal information will be collected with prior consent. This website can be viewed without disclosing personal information. Any personal information provided through our web page forms is protected by this Privacy Policy. All confidential information will be archived or disposed of securely. We do not sell or share email addresses or any other information collected at this web site. |
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For further information on the Privacy Act 1988 and all amendments, including the National Privacy Principles from the Privacy Amendment Private Sector Act of 2000, please go to The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC): www.oaic.gov.au/.
Concerns Should you have any concerns about the management of your personal information, please do not hesitate to raise them directly with Private Counselling Services. |
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CONFIDENTIALITY REQUIREMENTS AND LIMITATIONS
According to Counselling Professional Ethical Guidelines the personal information you discuss in counselling sessions is confidential. No information will be released without your authorisation. However, there are situations in which Private Counselling Services is legally required to override confidentiality. Specifically, if you reveal information that indicates a clear and immediate danger of injury to yourself or others, illegal activity, or the abuse of a child. Counsellors may be required to release records if subpoenaed. |
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ARCHIVING YOUR INFORMATION
This is standard practice for any therapeutic service and required by law. We need to archive your information in a secure and locked section either electronically or in a locked physical cabinet for a period of 7 years (25 years of age for children). It will not be accessed unless required by law or from you through the Freedom of Information Act. Your information will be securely destroyed after 7 years following the last client contact. |
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RECORDING COMMUNICATION
Private Counselling Services hereby notifies consent is not given to the recording of any appointments, video and/or phone communication without written agreement by Private Counselling Services. Any illegal recordings will be deemed in breach of Private Counselling Services’ T & C and current Australian legislation. |
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COMPLAINTS
If you have a complaint, please contact Private Counselling Services directly. We welcome the opportunity to discuss the complaint and negotiate a fair outcome. If you remain dissatisfied, you may contact the Health Complaints Commissioner (HCC). The HCC responds to complaints about health services and handling of health information in Victoria. Their service is free, confidential and impartial. To lodge a complaint with the HCC: www.hcc.vic.gov.au or phone 1300 582 113 business hours, Monday to Friday. |