Privacy Policy for Straight Up Psychological Services

 This document describes the privacy policy of Straight Up Psychological Services for the management of personal information. The psychological services provided are bound by the Australian Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

Client information

Client files are held in:

• secure electronic systems with appropriate access controls, including an encrypted, cloud-based practice management and online booking system with medical-grade security
• other secure storage methods as required

Access to client information is limited to staff of Straight Up Psychological Services.

Client records may include personal information such as name, address, contact details, medical history, and other information relevant to providing psychological services.

How personal information is collected

Personal information may be collected in several ways, including when:

• information is provided directly by the client (e.g. intake forms, correspondence, sessions)
• information is provided via secure online systems
• information is received from other health practitioners or professionals (e.g. referrals, reports), with consent or as authorised by law

Consequences of not providing personal information

If a client does not wish for their personal information to be collected in a way anticipated by this policy, Straight Up Psychological Services may not be able to provide psychological services.

Purpose of holding personal information

Personal information is collected and used for the purpose of providing psychological services, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and record-keeping. Maintaining accurate records is necessary to provide safe, ethical, and informed care.

Disclosure of personal information

Personal information remains confidential except where:

1. Disclosure is required or authorised by law (e.g. subpoena).
2. There is a reasonable belief that failure to disclose would place a person at serious risk to life, health, or safety.
3. The client (or authorised guardian) has provided consent for disclosure, including for:
   • reports to other professionals or agencies
   • discussion with nominated third parties
   • clinical consultation or supervision (with identifying details removed wherever possible).

Personal information is not disclosed to overseas recipients unless consent is provided or disclosure is otherwise required by law.

Data breaches

In the event of unauthorised access, disclosure, or loss of personal information, a data breach response plan will be activated and reasonable steps taken to minimise the risk of serious harm.

Access and correction

Clients may request access to, or correction of, their personal information at any time, subject to exceptions under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). Requests should be made to Straight Up Psychological Services and will be responded to in writing within a reasonable period (generally within 21–30 days).

Website use and cookies

This website may collect limited personal information when you submit an enquiry or complete forms via the website.

Basic technical information (such as IP address, browser type, or device information) may be collected automatically by the website hosting provider for security, performance, and functionality purposes.

This website uses cookies or similar technologies to support basic website functionality and improve user experience. Cookies do not provide access to information stored on your device. You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies if you prefer.

Concerns and complaints

If there are concerns about the management of personal information, clients are encouraged to discuss these with Straight Up Psychological Services.

If concerns cannot be resolved, a complaint may be made to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC):

• Phone:      1300 363 992
• Online:      https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/privacy-complaints
• Post:           GPO Box 5288, Sydney NSW 2001