Privacy Policy of Advice Care

Effective Date: October 18, 2024

At Advice Care (ABN: 18 671 395 994), located at 16 Bataba Street, Mickleham, Victoria 3064, Australia, we are committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our clients’ personal information. As an NDIS support services provider, we handle sensitive information about individuals with disabilities, their families, and carers, and we are committed to complying with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information.

1. Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information necessary to provide NDIS services, support coordination, and other disability-related services. The types of personal information we may collect include:

• Personal Details: Name, address, contact information, date of birth, gender, and emergency contact details.
• Health Information: Medical conditions, disability-related details, health reports, and NDIS plan details.
• Service History: Details about the services we provide, support needs, and goals.
• Financial Information: Bank account details for payment processing and information required for NDIS funding.
• Other: Information required to provide tailored NDIS services and support.

We will only collect personal information when it is necessary to deliver the services you request.

2. How We Collect Personal Information

We may collect your personal information through:

• Directly from you or your authorized representative (in person, via phone, email, or other communication methods).
• From third parties such as health professionals, guardians, or government agencies with your consent.
• Through the NDIS portal and other relevant government platforms.

3. Use of Personal Information

We use your personal information to:

• Provide NDIS services, including support coordination, therapy, and specialized care.
• Manage your NDIS plan, ensure you receive the appropriate funding, and coordinate with service providers.
• Communicate with you about your services, updates, and any changes to your plan.
• Fulfill legal and regulatory obligations, including reporting requirements to the NDIS.
• Improve the quality of the services we provide and tailor them to meet your specific needs.

We will not use your personal information for any other purpose without your consent, unless required by law.

4. Disclosure of Personal Information

We may disclose your personal information to:

• NDIS and Government Agencies: As part of our contractual obligations and for reporting and funding purposes.
• Service Providers: Other NDIS service providers or healthcare professionals involved in your care, with your consent.
• Legal Authorities: If required by law or in response to a legal request (e.g., subpoenas or court orders).
• Emergency Services: In cases where it is necessary to protect your health and safety or the health and safety of others.

We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties for marketing purposes.

5. Data Security

Advice Care is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information. We take reasonable steps to ensure your personal information is protected from misuse, loss, unauthorized access, or disclosure. This includes:

• Physical Security: Secure storage of files and restricted access to our office.
• Digital Security: Use of encrypted data storage, secure passwords, and limited access to electronic records.
• Staff Training: Ensuring all staff members are trained on privacy practices and adhere to strict confidentiality agreements.

If a data breach occurs, we will take immediate action to mitigate the impact and inform you and relevant authorities as required under Australian law.

6. Access to and Correction of Personal Information

You have the right to access your personal information held by Advice Care and request corrections if necessary. To access your information or request changes, please contact us at:

Advice Care
Address: 16 Bataba Street, Mickleham, Victoria 3064, Australia
Phone: 0467 560 050
Email: Care@advicecare.com.au

We will respond to your request within a reasonable timeframe and provide access unless an exemption applies under the law.

7. Complaints

If you believe we have breached your privacy or have concerns about how your personal information is handled, you can lodge a complaint with us. We take privacy complaints seriously and will respond promptly to address any issues. Complaints can be directed to:

Advice Care
Address: 16 Bataba Street, Mickleham, Victoria 3064, Australia
Phone: 0467 560 050
Email: Care@advicecare.com.au

If you are not satisfied with our response, you may escalate the matter to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

8. Updates to this Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in laws, regulations, or practices. We will notify you of significant changes, and the updated policy will be posted on our website.

Contact Us

For any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or how we handle your personal information, please contact us:

Advice Care
Address: 16 Bataba Street, Mickleham, Victoria 3064, Australia
Phone: 0467 560 050
Email: Care@advicecare.com.au

This Privacy Policy sets out how Advice Care protects and manages your personal information in accordance with Australian privacy laws and the NDIS guidelines.