CuriousNeuro Counselling is committed to protecting the privacy of personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 (Privacy Act) and the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic). This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal and health information.

1. Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information to provide counselling and related services. This information may include, but is not limited to:

• Name, address, email, and contact details
• Date of birth and gender
• Health information, including medical history and psychological reports
• Details required for billing, including NDIS plan details (if applicable)
• Information provided during sessions or via online forms

We collect this information directly from you or your authorised representative when you engage with our services.

2. Purpose of Collecting Personal Information

We collect personal and health information for the following purposes:

• To deliver counselling services tailored to your needs
• To communicate with you regarding appointments and service updates
• To maintain accurate records for clinical, administrative, and legal purposes
• To comply with legal obligations, including under the Privacy Act and Health Records Act.

3. Use and Disclosure of Information

We will only use or disclose your personal and health information for the purpose for which it was collected or as required by law. This includes:

• Sharing information with your consent (e.g., with healthcare providers or support coordinators)
• Disclosing information as required for billing, including to NDIS or Medicare
• Responding to legal obligations, such as court orders or mandatory reporting

If disclosure is required for any other purpose, we will obtain your consent first.

4. Storage and Security of Information

We take reasonable steps to protect your personal and health information from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure. This includes:

• Storing electronic records on secure, password-protected systems
• Restricting access to authorised personnel only
• Regularly reviewing and updating data protection measures

If personal information is no longer needed, we securely destroy or de-identify it in accordance with Australian legal requirements.

5. Access and Correction of Personal Information

You have the right to access and correct your personal and health information. To make a request, please contact us at the details below. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe and in accordance with the Privacy Act and Health Records Act.

In some cases, access may be refused, such as where it would compromise the privacy of others or is prohibited by law. If this occurs, we will provide reasons.

6. Online Data Collection

When you visit our website, we may collect non-identifying information, such as cookies or website analytics, to improve user experience. Personal information provided via online forms is handled in accordance with this policy.

7. Complaints and Concerns

If you believe we have breached your privacy, please contact us using the details below. We will investigate your complaint and respond within a reasonable timeframe. If you are not satisfied, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) or the Health Complaints Commissioner (HCC) Victoria.

8. Updates to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated to reflect changes in laws or our practices. The updated policy will be published on our website.

By engaging with CuriousNeuro Counselling, you agree to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy.