Privacy Policy for Management of Personal Information

Psych Plus Services

This document outlines the Privacy Policy of Psych Plus Services for the management of clients’ personal information. Our practice is bound by the legal requirements of the Australian Privacy Principles under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

Client Information

Client records are stored securely within locked filing systems and protected practice management platforms. Access is restricted to authorised members of the Psych Plus Services team.
Personal information collected may include:

  • Name, address, contact details

  • Date of birth

  • Medical and mental health history

  • Relevant personal and/or family details

  • Information required for treatment and administrative purposes

How Personal Information is Collected

Client personal information may be obtained through:

  • Intake and consent forms (electronic or hard copy)

  • Discussions during therapy sessions

  • Emails and other communications

  • Information provided by referrers, healthcare professionals, or third-party funders (e.g., GP referrals, medical reports, NDIS documentation, EAP providers)

  • Details collected by practice administration staff

Consequences of Not Providing Personal Information

If a client chooses not to provide required information, Psych Plus Services may be unable to deliver psychological care safely or effectively.
Clients may request to remain anonymous or use a pseudonym where practicable and legally permitted.
In such cases, full consultation fees must be paid at the time of the appointment.

Purpose of Collecting and Holding Personal Information

Client information is used for:

  • Assessment, diagnosis, and psychological treatment

  • Case notes and documentation required for professional standards

  • Communication with approved third parties involved in care

  • Funding, billing, and compliance with contractual obligations

Maintaining accurate records enables Psych Plus Services to provide high-quality and informed care.

Disclosure of Personal Information

Information about clients will only be shared under the following circumstances:

1️⃣ Legal obligation – e.g., subpoena or lawful direction
2️⃣ Risk of harm – where non-disclosure places the client or another person at serious risk
3️⃣ Client consent – provided for communication with:

  • Other health practitioners

  • Employers, insurers, or legal representatives

  • Parents, caregivers, or other nominated persons

Personal information is not disclosed to overseas recipients unless legally required or the client has provided explicit written consent.
Client information will never be sold, rented, or used for unrelated purposes.

Access and Correction of Personal Information

Clients may request to access or amend the information held about them.
Requests must be submitted to the treating psychologist or practice management team.
Where legally permitted, we will:

  • Provide access or copies of records

  • Assist with correction of outdated or inaccurate information

  • Respond in writing within 14 days
    A follow-up appointment may be arranged if clarification is required.

Concerns or Complaints

Clients who have concerns about the handling of their personal information should raise them with their psychologist or the Psych Plus Services management team.
A copy of the Australian Privacy Principles can be provided upon request.

If a client wishes to make a formal complaint, they may contact:

Office of the Australian Information Commissioner
Phone: 1300 363 992
Online: www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/making-a-privacy-complaint
Post: GPO Box 5218, Sydney NSW 2001