Red Earth Counselling respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This privacy policy explains how information is collected, stored, used, and shared when you use our services or visit our website. The services and website provided by Red Earth Counselling are governed by the legal requirements of the Australian Privacy Principles and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (“the Act”). Please read the privacy policy carefully.

1. What Information We Collect

We may collect:

• Personal details such as your name, address, phone number, email, date of birth, emergency contact, and billing details.

• Sensitive information such as health history, referral information, and details you share in counselling sessions.

• Website information such as pages visited, time spent on site, and technical data (collected via cookies or analytics tools).

• Communication details when you use the contact form, email, or phone.

2. How We Use Your Information

Your information is used to:

• Provide counselling and related services.

• Keep accurate and professional records.

• Arrange appointments and communicate with you.

• Improve our website and services.

• Meet legal and professional obligations.

3. Confidentiality and Disclosure

Information you share in counselling is kept confidential. It may only be disclosed:

• With your consent (e.g. sharing information with another health professional).

• If there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others.

• If required by law (e.g. child protection, court order).

• To process payments or meet professional/insurance obligations.

4. Record Keeping and Security

• All client information is stored electronically on Splose, which is a secure, cloud-based practice management software.

• Records are retained in line with professional standards (usually 7 years after your last session, or if under 18, until age 25).

• Website enquiries and emails are stored securely and accessed only by authorised staff.

• While we take care to protect your data, information sent via the internet cannot be guaranteed 100% secure.

5. Telehealth Sessions

If you choose to use phone or video sessions, we will take steps to protect your privacy. Please be aware that all internet-based communication carries some risk.

6. Access and Correction

You have the right to:

• Request access to your personal information.

• Ask for corrections if it is inaccurate.

• Request deletion of information, unless we are legally required to retain it.

7. Cookies and Analytics

A cookie is a small file placed in your web browser that collects information about your web browsing behaviour that allows a website to tailor its configuration to your needs and preferences. Our website may use cookies or tools such as Google Analytics to understand visitor activity. You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies if you prefer.

8. Complaints

If you have any concerns about how your information is handled, please contact me directly. If you're not satisfied with the response, you may submit an ethics complaint to the Australian Association of Social Workers or contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).