Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy – Sunflower Psychology Services

Sunflower Psychology Services is committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. The Privacy Policy outlines how personal information is collected, used, disclosed and protected in compliance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

1. Client Information
Client files are held securely in locked filing cabinets and/or password-protected electronic systems. Access is limited to authorised employees or contracted service providers in accordance with our policies and procedures. Each file includes personal information such as name, address, contact details, date of birth, medical and developmental history, and session records.

2. How Personal Information is Collected
Personal information is collected through various means including:

  • Hardcopy forms

  • Emails and phone calls

  • Direct interaction with client

  • Online contact forms and cookies

  • Referrals and correspondence from other professionals (e.g., GPs, NDIS coordinators)

Information is collected only when reasonably necessary for the delivery of psychological services.

3. Consequences of Not Providing Personal Information
If you choose not to provide required personal information, we may be unable to offer services. Clients may use a pseudonym where lawful and practical, except where identification is required by law or is essential to delivering appropriate care.

4. Purpose of Holding Personal Information
Personal information is gathered to provide psychological services, including assessment, diagnosis, therapy, and consultation. Documentation is essential for treatment planning, continuity of care, risk management, and compliance with ethical, legal, and funding body requirements.

5. Disclosure of Personal Information
Personal information will remain confidential unless:

  • Disclosure is required or authorised by law (e.g., court subpoena).

  • There is a serious risk to your safety or the safety of others.

  • Clients provide written consent for disclosure (e.g., to a GP, lawyer, employer, school, or funding body).

Sunflower Psychology Services does not disclose personal information to overseas recipients unless required by law or with your explicit consent. Personal information will never be sold or rented. In the event of a privacy breach, Sunflower Psychology Services will follow their Incident Management Policy to promptly assess and mitigate any risks.

6. Requests for Access and Correction
To make requests to access or correct your personal information, contact Sunflower Psychology Services (Penelope Johnston - Practice Owner). Requests will be acknowledged within 14-28 days and processed unless prohibited by law. A meeting may be offered to clarify requests.

7. Feedback and Complaints
If you have any concerns about how your personal information is managed, please contact Sunflower Psychology Services directly. Privacy-related complaints will be addressed and resolved promptly, typically within 14-28 days.

If your issue remains unresolved, you may refer your complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at:

  • Phone: 1300 363 992

  • Email: enquiries@oaic.gov.au

Complaints related to NDIS services will acknowledged and responded to in accordance with the NDIS (Complaints Management and Resolution) Rules 2018, to ensure timely and appropriate handling.

8. Website Use and Cookies
Cookies are used to analyse website engagement and improve your browsing experience. You may manage cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect website functionality.

9. Third-Party Services
Secure third-party platforms are used for:

  • Practice management and appointment booking

  • Video consultations (Telehealth)

  • Payments and invoicing

All third-party providers are required to comply with Australian privacy standards and enter confidentiality agreements.

10. Changes to this Privacy Policy
The Privacy Policy may be updated to reflect changes in legislation, technology, or practice operations. Updates will be posted on this website.

11. External Websites
This website may contain links to third-party sites. We are not responsible for their privacy policies or content.

12. Acknowledgement
Your use of this website and services constitutes acceptance of the Privacy Policy.

13. Effective Date
This Privacy Policy is effective from 2025 and applies to all services provided by Sunflower Psychology Services.