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Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Ruth Tidswell (ABN 46 700 186 70) is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all personal information collected in the course of providing social work and therapy services. This policy aligns with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the AASW Code of Ethics.

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2. Collection of Personal Information

I may collect personal information necessary to provide services, including but not limited to:

  • Name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email;

  • Health information, medical history, and mental health information;

  • Referrals from GPs, NDIS, or other agencies;

  • Payment and billing information.

Information is collected directly from clients wherever possible. I only collect information necessary for the provision of services and for administrative purposes.

 

3. Use of Personal Information

Personal information may be used for:

  • Delivering social work, therapy, or allied health services;

  • Communicating with clients about appointments and treatment;

  • Billing and processing payments;

  • Reporting to funding bodies, such as Medicare or NDIS, as required;

  • Legal or regulatory compliance.

I do not use personal information for marketing purposes without explicit consent.

 

4. Disclosure of Personal Information

I may disclose personal information:

  • To healthcare professionals involved in your care (with your consent);

  • To Medicare, NDIS, or other funding bodies (as required by law);

  • When required by law, court order, or to prevent serious harm;

  • To third-party service providers who assist in administrative functions, with confidentiality agreements in place.

I do not sell or trade personal information.

All third parties are required to maintain confidentiality and comply with privacy obligations

 

5. Storage and Security

I take reasonable steps to protect personal information from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure, including:

  • Secure electronic storage and encrypted communication;

  • Secure disposal of physical records when no longer required.

 

6. Telehealth, Electronic Communication, and Cookies

Telehealth Services

Where services are provided via telehealth reasonable steps are taken to use secure platforms. However, electronic communication carries inherent privacy risks. By engaging in telehealth services, you consent to the use of electronic communication for service delivery. 

 

Cookies and Analytics

My website may utilise cookies and third-party analytics tools, such as Google Analytics, to gain insights into visitor interactions and enhance its content and functionality.

You may disable cookies through your browser settings, though some features of the website may not function properly. 

 

7. Access and Correction

Clients have the right to access and correct personal information held about them, subject to exceptions allowed under the Privacy Act. Requests can be made in writing to ruthtidswell28@gmail.com.

I will respond within a reasonable timeframe. 

 

8. Retention of Records

Client records are retained in accordance with professional standards and legal obligations, including:

  • AASW Record Management Guidelines: minimum retention period for social work client files;

  • Medicare/NDIS Requirements: minimum retention periods for funded services.

  • Applicable State and Federal legislation.

After the retention period, records are securely destroyed.

 

9. Consent

Clients are informed about the collection, use, and disclosure of their personal information. Consent is obtained verbally or in writing before services are provided. Clients may withdraw consent at any time, subject to legal or contractual restrictions.

 

10. Complaints

If you believe your privacy has been breached, please contact me directly, so I may attempt to resolve your concerns. 

 If unsatisfied, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

Website: www.oaic.gov.au 

Phone: 1300 663 992

 

11. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with legislation, professional standards and best practice. The latest version is available on my website.

Date of Privacy Policy Review 17.12.2025

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