Privacy & Confidentiality at KuCare
At KuCare, your privacy matters. We are committed to protecting your personal information, treating it with respect, and using it only for the purpose of supporting you. This statement explains, in clear and simple language, how we collect, use, store, and protect your information.
1. Our Commitment to Your Privacy
KuCare follows the Privacy Act 1988, the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and the NDIS Practice Standards to ensure your information is handled safely and responsibly. We aim to protect your rights, keep your information secure, and communicate clearly about how your information is used.
2. What Privacy and Confidentiality Mean
- Personal Information: Details about who you are, such as your name, address, or contact information.
- Health Information: Information about your medical history, diagnoses, medications, or support needs.
- Sensitive Information: Private information that needs extra protection, such as health details or cultural background.
- Confidentiality: We do not share your information unless you give permission, it is required for your safety, or the law requires it.
3. Your Rights
You have the right to:
- choose who can access your information
- understand why we collect certain information
- ask how your information is stored and used
- request access to your records
- ask us to correct information if it is wrong
- withdraw consent at any time
- have your information kept private and secure
4. How We Collect Your Information
We only collect information that is necessary to support you safely and effectively. This may include your contact details, preferences, goals, health information, progress notes, or referrals. Before collecting anything, we explain why we need it, how it will be used, and how it will be stored.
5. How We Store and Protect Your Information
- encrypted digital systems
- password protection
- limited access for authorised staff
- secure handling of paper documents
- safe disposal of old records
Information submitted through this website is transmitted securely and stored on servers located in Australia.
6. How Your Information Is Used
We use your information to provide safe, high-quality supports, understand your needs, communicate with you and your representatives, coordinate with health professionals (with consent), and meet legal and NDIS obligations.
7. Sharing Your Information
We only share your information when you give consent, when it is needed to provide your supports, when there is a serious safety risk, or when the law requires it. We never sell your information or use it for marketing.
8. Your Consent
We use a Participant Consent Form to make sure your choices are clear and respected. You can change your consent at any time. This includes consent for sharing information, using photos or recordings, or storing health information.
9. Your Rights During Audits
Sometimes the NDIS Commission conducts audits. You may be asked to participate, but you have the right to decline. Your decision will always be respected and will not affect your supports.
10. Accessing or Correcting Your Information
You can request access to your information at any time. You can also ask us to correct anything that is inaccurate or incomplete. We will respond as quickly as possible and explain any decisions we make.
11. How We Handle Data Breaches
A data breach means your information has been lost, accessed without permission, or shared by mistake. If this happens, KuCare will:
- act immediately to secure your information
- assess what happened and the level of risk
- inform you promptly if your information is affected
- notify authorities if required under the Notifiable Data Breaches Scheme
- take steps to prevent it from happening again
12. How We Prevent Data Breaches
- strong digital security systems
- regular staff training
- secure disposal of old records
- monitoring for unusual activity
- following Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) guidance
13. Communication Support
If English is not your preferred language or you need communication support, we can arrange an interpreter or provide translated information. Your privacy is always protected during interpreting sessions.
14. Continuous Improvement
KuCare regularly reviews its privacy practices and invites feedback from participants, families, carers, and workers. Your input helps us improve our services and keep your information safe.
15. If You Have Questions or Concerns
If you ever feel your privacy has been affected or want to understand how your information is handled, you can contact us at any time. We will listen, support you, and take your concerns seriously.