Privacy Policy for Northern Rivers Navigation

1. Introduction

Northern Rivers Navigation (NRN) is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the confidentiality of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 and the NDIS Privacy Guidelines.

2. Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information to provide and manage our services effectively. This may include:

  • Contact details (e.g., name, address, phone number, email)

  • Information related to your NDIS plan and goals

  • Health and medical information relevant to your care

  • Details about the services you receive

We collect this information directly from you, your guardian, or authorised representatives. We may also obtain information from third parties, including NDIS providers and other service organisations, to better support your needs.

3. Use of Personal Information

Your personal information is used for the following purposes:

  • To provide, manage, and coordinate the services and supports outlined in your NDIS plan

  • To communicate with you and other relevant parties involved in your care

  • To review and improve our services

  • To comply with legal and regulatory requirements

4. Disclosure of Personal Information

We may disclose your personal information to:

  • NDIS and other health services (e.g., your GP, mental health services)

  • Education support services

  • Social support services

  • Community organisations or housing providers

  • Any other relevant service providers

We will only share information that is necessary for the provision of services. We will discuss with you before making any referrals or disclosures to other services.

5. Data Security

We implement reasonable measures to protect your personal information from unauthorised access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. This includes secure storage, access controls, and regular reviews of our security practices.

6. Duty of Care and Breach of Privacy

In certain situations, we may be required to breach your privacy in accordance with our duty of care. This may occur if we believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or others, or if we are legally obligated to disclose information to relevant authorities (e.g., in cases of abuse, neglect, or threats to safety). In such instances, we will take reasonable steps to inform you of the disclosure unless doing so would increase the risk of harm.

7. Case Notes
As part of providing services, NRN may write case notes that record details of your interactions with our team, progress on goals, and any support provided. These case notes are:

  • Written in a factual and professional manner

  • Used to monitor and improve service delivery

  • Stored securely in accordance with our data security measures

  • Only accessible to authorised staff directly involved in your care

You have the right to request access to your case notes, subject to certain legal and privacy considerations.

8. Access and Correction

You have the right to access your personal information held by us and request corrections if needed. To make a request, please contact us using the details provided below.

9. Consent

By engaging with our services, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as described in this Privacy Policy. You may withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us, although this may affect the services we can provide.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Any changes will be posted on our website, and we will notify you if they significantly affect your privacy.

11. Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or complaints about our Privacy Policy or how we handle your personal information, please contact us:

Northern Rivers Navigation
Email: hello@northernriversnavigation.com.au
Address: PO Box 123, Byron Bay, NSW 2481

Effective Date: 11th September 2024

This Privacy Policy is effective as of the date mentioned above and is subject to change. Please review it periodically to stay informed about how we protect your information.