Privacy Policy

Privacy and Confidentiality Statement

The Centre is committed to the principles outlined in the Privacy Act 1988 and has in place procedures that ensure compliance with the legislation. The Client Information Folder outlines the organisation’s approach to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of client and carer information.

The key guidelines for respecting client and carer’s privacy and confidentiality are:

  • Client and carer files and other information are securely stored
  • The Centre only collects information about clients and carers that is relevant to the provision of support and it is explained to clients and carers why the information is collected and what it is used for
  • The Centre has an Authority to Release Information’ Form that details approved consent
  • The Centre seeks consent from clients and carers to, in an emergency, disclose personal information to other health service providers as appropriate, to provide emergency care or services
  • The Centre seeks consent from client and carers to provide government officials (or their delegates) with access to their records in the conduct of quality reviews or the investigation of complaints. The Centre advises client or carers that these individuals are required to keep all of this information confidential
  • Consent to share personal information can be withdrawn at any time by the client or carer
  • Client and carers can ask to see the information that the Centre keeps about them. They are supported to access this information if requested. The client or carer can nominate a representative to access the client or carer’s records held by the Centre
  • All information relating to client and carers is confidential and is not disclosed to any other person or organisation without the client or carer’s permission
  • The Centre only shares information when it is necessary to ensure appropriate support is delivered and only with the client or carer’s permission/consent beforehand
  • The provision of information to people outside the service is authorised by the Centre’s Managers
  • The Centre does not discuss client or carers or their support with people not directly involved in supporting them
  • Reviews and reassessments are always conducted in private with the client or carer and the allocated Coordinator / Officer, unless the client or carer consents to their carer, advocate or other person being present
  • During reassessments or reviews the Coordinator/ Officer asks the client or carer about any particular privacy requirements they have, such as who can or cannot be contacted in the event of an emergency. This is discussed and noted in their records
  • Any references to specific clients or carers in meeting minutes does not identify who the person is
  • Any discussions between staff about clients and carers is held in a closed office