How DSS handles your information

The information that we collect from you on our enrolment forms includes your personal information. Your personal information is protected by law, including by the Commonwealth Privacy Act

Our use of the Data Exchange

The client record system that we are using is an IT system called the ‘Data Exchange’. This system is hosted by the Australian Government Department of Social Services (DSS). Your personal information that is stored by DSS on the Data Exchange will only be disclosed to us for the purposes of managing your case.

DSS will only collect your personal information with your consent

Your client record can be set up to include your name and address. This assists us to manage your record but will require DSS to collect personal information about you. You are not required to provide your name and address to DSS. If you do not consent to the collection of your personal information, this will not affect the services provided to you. You can ask for this information to be removed by DSS at any time.

How DSS uses and discloses personal information in the Data Exchange

DSS uses your information in the Data Exchange to produce information for policy development, grants program administration, and research and evaluation purposes. DSS also shares data with organisations and agencies for reporting and research purposes. DSS de-identifies all data before use or disclosure so that it cannot be used to re-identify you.

Further information

For more information about how DSS will manage your personal information, including how you can request access or correction of your personal information or make a privacy complaint, see the privacy policy published on the DSS website.