Privacy Policy
Effective Date: 01/07/2025
At EveryStep Community Support, your privacy is important to us. We are committed to protecting the personal information of all people we support, including NDIS participants, aged care clients, and young people in out-of-home care. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect personal information in line with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
1. Information We Collect
We may collect personal information such as:
- Name, address, date of birth, and contact details
- Information about health, disability, care needs, and support requirements
- Cultural and language information, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander or CALD background (with consent)
- Details of family members, guardians, or authorised representatives
- Service records, case notes, and progress reports
- Payment and funding details (including NDIS plan information, if applicable)
For young people in residential care, we may also collect information required under Child Safety and relevant state legislation to ensure their wellbeing and safety.
2. How We Collect Information
We collect information directly from you, your family, carers, guardians, or authorised representatives. We may also collect information from government agencies, healthcare providers, schools, or other organisations involved in your care — but only with your knowledge and consent, unless required by law.
3. Why We Collect Information
We collect personal information to:
- Provide tailored care and support services
- Meet our obligations under the NDIS, aged care, and child safety frameworks
- Communicate with you, your family, and other key supports
- Ensure the safety, wellbeing, and progress of young people in our care
- Manage our services, staff, and quality assurance processes
- Comply with legal, regulatory, and funding requirements
4. How We Use and Share Information
Your personal information is used only for the purposes for which it was collected.
We will not share your information with third parties without your consent, except where:
- Required by law (e.g. child protection or mandatory reporting obligations)
- Necessary to protect your safety or the safety of others
- Needed to coordinate supports with healthcare providers, government agencies, or other services you agree to
5. Data Storage and Security
We take steps to keep your information safe and secure, including:
- Secure electronic systems with password protection and encryption
- Restricted staff access based on role and responsibility
- Staff training on confidentiality and privacy requirements
- Regular review of data handling practices
6. Access to Your Information
You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you and to request corrections if the information is inaccurate or out of date. To make a request, please contact us (see below).
7. Complaints
If you believe we have breached your privacy, you can contact us directly. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may also lodge a complaint with:
- Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC): www.oaic.gov.au
- NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission: www.ndiscommission.gov.au
- Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety: https://www.families.qld.gov.au/our-work/child-safety/children-young-people- care/making-complaint
8. Contact Us
For questions about this Privacy Policy or your personal information, please contact:
EveryStep Community Support
Email: info@everystepcommunity.com
Phone: 1300 059 645
Address: PO Box 2091, Tingalpa Qld 4173