Privacy Policy
Scope
This Privacy Policy explains how Abba Clinical Psychology collects, uses, stores, and protects your personal information, including sensitive health information, in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). It operates alongside our professional obligation of confidentiality under the Psychology Board of Australia Code of Ethics.
By using our services or website, you consent to the collection and handling of your personal information as described in this policy.
Definitions
Personal Information: Information or an opinion about an individual who is identified or reasonably identifiable.
Sensitive Information: Includes health information, racial or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, and other data requiring higher protection under the Privacy Act.
Collection of Information
We collect personal information when you:
Contact us via email or through our practice management software.
Book or attend appointments (face-to-face, telehealth, or phone).
Provide information during consultations.
Are referred by a GP or other health professional.
We only collect information necessary to provide psychological services and meet legal obligations.
Purpose of Collection
Your information is used to:
Deliver psychological services.
Manage appointments and billing.
Communicate with you about your care.
Comply with legal and professional obligations.
Storage & Security
Records are stored in a secure, password-protected practice management system that complies with Australian privacy laws.
We take reasonable steps to protect information from misuse, interference, loss, and unauthorised access, including encryption and secure login protocols.
If data is stored by third-party providers outside Australia, we ensure they comply with the APPs.
Retention & Disposal
Adult client records are retained for 7 years after the last consultation.
For clients under 18, records are kept until they turn 25 years old.
After this period, records are securely destroyed, unless otherwise required by law.
Disclosure of Information
We do not share your personal information except:
With your consent.
Where required or authorised by law (e.g., court order, subpoena).
To protect you or others from serious harm (Duty of Care).
To comply with professional obligations.
To service providers under confidentiality agreements (e.g., IT support).
Duty of Care
If we believe you or someone else is at risk of serious harm, we may disclose information to emergency services or relevant authorities. We will inform you where possible before doing so.
Access & Correction
You may request access to or correction of your personal information by contacting us at info@abbapsychology.com. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe.
Data Breach Notification
If a data breach occurs that is likely to cause serious harm, we will notify affected individuals and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) as required by law.
Telehealth Services
Online sessions are conducted via secure platforms. By using Telehealth, you consent to the associated risks and agree to take reasonable steps to maintain your own privacy during sessions.
Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to other sites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Please review their policies before providing personal information.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy from time to time. The latest version will be available on our website.
Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about this policy or how your information is handled, please contact us at info@abbapsychology.com.