Introduction
This Data Protection Policy outlines the principles and practices for the handling, storage, and protection of personal data in accordance with Australian privacy laws and regulations. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that personal information is managed responsibly and securely to maintain individuals’ privacy rights.
Scope
This policy applies to all personal data collected, processed, stored, or transmitted, regardless of format or medium. It covers data related to employees, customers, contractors, suppliers, and any other individuals whose information may be handled.
Principles
- Lawfulness, Fairness, and Transparency
Personal data shall be collected and processed lawfully, fairly, and in a transparent manner. Individuals will be informed about the purposes of data collection and how their data will be used. - Purpose Limitation
Personal information will be collected only for specified, explicit, and legitimate purposes and will not be processed in a manner incompatible with those purposes. - Data Minimisation
Only data that is necessary and relevant for the intended purposes will be collected and processed. - Accuracy
Reasonable steps will be taken to ensure personal data is accurate, complete, and kept up to date. - Storage Limitation
Personal data will be retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law. - Integrity and Confidentiality
Appropriate technical and organizational measures will be implemented to safeguard personal data against unauthorized or unlawful processing, accidental loss, destruction, or damage. - Accountability
Responsibility for compliance with this policy rests with all personnel involved in handling personal data.
Data Subject Rights
Individuals have the right to:
- Access their personal information held.
- Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data.
- Withdraw consent for data processing where applicable.
- Request deletion of personal data, subject to legal or contractual obligations.
- Object to or restrict processing in certain circumstances.
Data Collection and Use
Personal information will only be collected when necessary and relevant for business activities, such as employment, service provision, customer management, or regulatory compliance. Data collection methods will comply with legal requirements and respect privacy.
Data Sharing and Disclosure
Personal data will not be disclosed to third parties unless:
- Consent has been obtained from the individual.
- Disclosure is required or permitted by law.
- It is necessary for the provision of services or business operations, under confidentiality agreements.
Security Measures
Security measures include, but are not limited to:
- Controlled access to data and premises.
- Use of encryption, passwords, and secure communication channels.
- Regular staff training on privacy and data protection.
- Incident management procedures for data breaches.
Data Breach Response
In the event of a data breach, appropriate steps will be taken promptly to:
- Contain and assess the breach.
- Notify affected individuals if required.
- Report to the relevant regulatory authority as per Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
- Implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence.
Compliance and Review
This policy complies with the Australian Privacy Act and the Australian Privacy Principles. It will be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in legislation, technology, and organizational practices.