At Playworks OT, we are committed to ensuring the privacy, confidentiality, and accuracy of your personal and health information. This policy outlines how we collect, store, use, and disclose your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

Collecting and Storing Your Information

Playworks OT collects and holds personal information that is reasonably necessary to provide and evaluate our services, and as otherwise permitted or required by law. This may include:

• Personal details (e.g., name, date of birth, address, contact details)

• Health information

• Information relevant to your therapy and care

We may collect this information directly from you, or from third parties involved in your care (e.g., carers, general practitioners, paediatricians, or other healthcare providers).

Information is stored securely using electronic practice management software that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) features to improve workflow efficiency, appointment management, and communication. While AI may assist with automated functions, it does not make clinical decisions or override human judgment. Hard copy records, where required, are kept in locked storage. We take reasonable steps to protect your personal information from misuse, interference, unauthorised access, modification, and loss.

Retention of Personal Information

We retain your information for as long as is necessary to fulfil the purpose for which it was collected, and in accordance with legal and professional obligations. When no longer required, information is securely destroyed or de-identified.

Accessing and Correcting Your Information

You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you, in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). Requests can be made in writing to Playworks OT. Access may be denied in limited circumstances, such as if it poses a serious threat to the safety of yourself or others, or if it would unreasonably impact someone else’s privacy.

We aim to ensure your information is accurate and up to date. If you believe the information we hold is incorrect, you may request a correction. If we do not agree with the correction, we will record your request alongside our existing records.

Disclosure of Information

We may disclose your information to third parties if it is reasonably necessary to provide you with services, and where permitted or required by law. This includes:

• Communicating with other treating professionals (e.g., general practitioners, paediatricians, NDIS support coordinators)

• Sending reminders and appointment-related communication

• Facilitating Medicare, insurance, accounting, and auditing processes

• Fulfilling legal obligations, including under court orders or subpoenas

• Preventing or reducing a serious threat to life, health, or safety

• Engaging in clinical supervision (non-identifiable information only)

All third-party providers we work with are required to adhere to privacy and confidentiality standards consistent with the APPs.

Overseas Disclosure

Playworks OT does not typically disclose personal information to overseas recipients. If it becomes necessary to do so, we will take reasonable steps to ensure any overseas recipients comply with Australian privacy standards, in accordance with APP 8.

Consent and Your Rights

We will obtain your informed consent before collecting or disclosing personal or health information, except where otherwise required by law. You may withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us in writing.

In addition to your right to access and correct information, you also have the right to:

• Withdraw consent for data use (where applicable)

• Object to the handling of your personal information

• Request data portability (where feasible)

• Lodge a complaint if you believe your privacy has been breached

Feedback and Complaints

We are committed to providing respectful, high-quality services and welcome feedback to improve our care.

If you have concerns about the way your information is handled, or are unhappy with an aspect of our service, please contact us:

📧 Email: hello@playworksot.com.au

If we are unable to resolve your concerns, you may lodge a complaint with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC):

🔗 www.oaic.gov.au
📞 1300 363 992

Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated from time to time. Any significant changes will be communicated to you or published on our website.

Updated April 2025