Privacy policy.
1. Commitment to Privacy The Australian Veteran Centre (AVC) respects your privacy. We are committed to protecting your personal and sensitive information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). This policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard the information of the veterans we support.
2. Information We Collect To provide effective advocacy and navigate the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) claims process, we may collect the following types of information:
Personal Information: Name, contact details (email, phone, address), date of birth, and service history (Rank, PMKeyS/Service Number, periods of service).
Sensitive Information: Medical records, psychological reports, service records, and details regarding physical or mental health conditions relevant to your claim.
Financial Information: If applicable for payment of services or setting up DVA payments, we may collect bank account details.
3. How We Collect Information We collect information directly from you via:
Website contact forms.
Telephone or video consultations.
Documents you provide to us (Service records, medical reports).
With your explicit consent, we may also collect information directly from the DVA or medical practitioners.
4. Purpose of Collection We collect your data solely for the purpose of:
Assessing your eligibility for DVA entitlements.
Preparing, lodging, and managing claims for Initial Liability, Permanent Impairment, and other entitlements.
Communicating with the DVA on your behalf.
Providing you with updates regarding your case.
5. Disclosure of Information AVC is not a data broker. We do not sell your information. We only disclose your information to:
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA): To lodge and manage your claims.
Medical Professionals: To arrange assessments or obtain reports necessary for your claim.
Legal or Professional Advisors: Only if required for complex appeals or legal compliance.
Law Enforcement: Only if required by law.
6. Data Security We take reasonable steps to protect your personal information from misuse, interference, loss, and unauthorized access. Your data is stored in secure digital environments. Once your file is closed, data is retained or destroyed in accordance with legal record-keeping requirements.
7. Access and Correction You have the right to access the personal information we hold about you and to request corrections if it is inaccurate. To make a request, please contact us using the details below.
8. Contact Us If you have questions about this policy or how we handle your data, please contact:
Australian Veteran Centre Email: info@australianveterancentre.com.au