Privacy Policy

Action Community Services (ACS) is committed to protecting the privacy of an individual’s personal information. This statement outlines how we protect the privacy of your personal information, your rights regarding that information, and how we collect, use, and disclose it.

In handling your personal information, ACS complies with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act), including the thirteen Australian Privacy Principles.

Our Commitment to Privacy

ACS has policies and procedures in place to ensure that:

  • personal information is managed in an open and transparent manner

  • the privacy of participants and staff is upheld at all times

  • we collect and handle personal information fairly and ethically

  • personal information is used and disclosed only for lawful and permitted purposes

  • access to and correction of personal information is regulated

  • confidentiality of information is maintained through secure storage and safeguards

The Information We Collect

To deliver services and support, ACS may collect personal information such as:

  • name, address, telephone number, and email address

  • date of birth

  • gender

  • emergency or advocate contact details

  • health-related information

  • diversity status (e.g. ethnicity, cultural background, lifestyle preferences)

How We Collect Your Information

We may collect your personal information from:

  • you, the participant

  • your family members, carers, or significant others

  • your advocate or nominee

  • your healthcare provider or other service providers

Where possible, we collect information directly from you unless:

  • you give consent for us to collect it from someone else

  • we are legally authorised or required to collect it from someone else

  • it is unreasonable or impractical to collect the information directly

You can withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us. However, this may affect our ability to continue providing some services.

Purpose of Collecting Information

We collect personal information to:

  • deliver safe, high-quality support services

  • assist service providers and medical professionals in delivering care

Disclosure of Personal Information

We may disclose your personal and health information to:

  • relevant service providers assisting in your care (e.g. ambulance services, hospitals, NDIS, or other government agencies)

  • a nominated advocate (e.g. parent, spouse, guardian, or emergency contact over the age of 18)

We will not use or disclose your information for other purposes unless:

  • you have given consent

  • the disclosure relates to your care and is reasonably expected

  • it is necessary to prevent a serious threat to life, health, or public safety

  • we suspect unlawful activity and are authorised or required by law to report it

ACS does not disclose personal information to overseas recipients.

Security of Information

We take all reasonable precautions to protect your personal information from misuse, loss, and unauthorised access. Information is stored securely in both electronic and hard copy formats, accessible only by authorised personnel.

Accessing and Updating Your Information

Under the Privacy Act, you have the right to access and correct your personal information held by ACS. To do so, please contact us with proof of identity. We aim to process access requests within seven (7) days.

Employee, Contractor and Volunteer Records

Personal information of current and past employees and contractors is managed in accordance with workplace laws. If used beyond employment purposes, privacy laws may apply.

Volunteer information is managed in line with the Privacy Act and treated with the same confidentiality and respect.

Privacy Breaches

In the event of a data breach (e.g. information is lost, stolen, or accessed without authorisation), ACS will implement our Data Breach Response Policy in line with legal obligations.

Complaints About Privacy

If you have concerns about how your personal information has been handled, you can lodge a complaint through our feedback and complaints process or contacting sarcha@actioncommunityservices.com.au.

All privacy complaints will:

  • be treated seriously

  • be handled promptly and confidentially

  • not affect any existing service arrangements

You will be notified of the outcome after the investigation is complete.