Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information that is necessary for us to deliver our early childhood education, care, and related services. This information is generally collected directly from individuals and may include details such as name, address, date of birth, gender, occupation, contact details (such as phone and email), and financial or billing information. In some cases, we may also collect unique identifying details (e.g. for phone verification) to ensure secure communication.

Where we work with children, we understand the heightened privacy risks involved. We only collect information about children that is reasonably necessary to provide services and comply with legal and regulatory requirements. We take additional care to ensure that the personal information of children is handled securely, and we obtain the explicit consent of a parent or guardian before using any photos, videos, or other identifying material of children in public forums, social media, or marketing materials.

Providing personal information is voluntary. However, if you choose not to provide certain information, we may be unable to deliver services or respond effectively to your needs.

Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

We use personal information primarily for the purpose for which it was collected - for example, to enroll children in services, manage accounts, communicate with families and staff, or meet our legal obligations. Personal information may also be used for closely related secondary purposes, such as service improvement or where a family’s needs have changed or extended over time.

Gowrie NSW does not disclose personal information to third parties except where required by law, where authorised by the individual, or where necessary to provide our services. We do not sell or rent personal data, and we do not share personal information with third parties for the purpose of marketing non-Gowrie services to carers, educators, or other individuals.

We do not engage in direct marketing to children. Any promotional communications are directed to adults, and we ensure that families, educators, and other recipients have a simple and accessible mechanism to opt out of receiving such communications at any time.

Online Tracking and Use of Cookies

When you visit our website, we may collect information about your browsing behaviour through the use of cookies and similar technologies. These tools help us understand website usage patterns, improve site functionality, and deliver relevant communications to users. Where advertising pixels are used (e.g. Google, Meta), they help us measure the effectiveness of our digital campaigns and better target our communications.

By using our website, you consent to the use of cookies. You may change your browser settings at any time to block or manage cookies; however, this may affect your experience on our site.

Accuracy of Personal Information

We aim to ensure that all personal information we hold is accurate, complete, and up to date. Where personal details are provided to us by third parties, such as medical professionals, government agencies, or funding providers, we take reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy of that information. For ongoing clients and families, we regularly review and confirm key details.

Storage, Security and Data Retention

All personal information is stored securely, whether in physical form or within our electronic systems. Access is restricted to authorised staff who need the information to carry out their roles. We use secure systems and protocols to protect data from unauthorised access, misuse, loss, or disclosure.

Gowrie NSW complies with data retention and destruction requirements under the Education and Care Services National Regulations and other applicable laws. For example, certain child enrolment, attendance, and incident records must be retained for minimum periods of 3 to 25 years, depending on the type of record. When personal information is no longer required, it is securely destroyed or permanently de-identified in accordance with our data management policies and regulatory obligations.

Access to and Correction of Personal Information

Individuals have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about them. Requests can be made in writing or by contacting us directly. We may need to verify your identity before releasing information. In some cases, we may decline access where permitted by law; for example, where providing access would unreasonably affect the privacy of others or would breach legal privilege. If we refuse or limit access, we will explain the reasons.

If you believe that your personal information is inaccurate or incomplete, you may request that it be corrected. We will respond promptly to all reasonable requests for updates or corrections.

Children’s Privacy

Gowrie NSW takes its obligations in relation to children’s privacy seriously. We apply strict controls around the collection, use, and sharing of children's personal information. Where visual material such as photographs or videos of children is involved, we will seek the explicit consent of a parent or guardian before using such material in any public or promotional context. This includes online publications, printed brochures and other types of collateral, social media posts, and training or conference presentations.

We are committed to minimising data collection from children and ensuring that children’s information is only used in ways that are necessary, respectful, and legally compliant.

Financial Information

We maintain a secure database of suppliers, customers, and other financial contacts in order to process payments, manage invoicing, and comply with financial reporting obligations. Access to financial information is restricted to authorised staff and is protected by our financial system security protocols.

Changes to This Policy

From time to time, we may review and update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in law, technology, or our service offerings. When we do, the revised policy will be published on our website. Where a contractual agreement exists and conflicts with this policy, the terms of the contract will prevail.

Contacting Us

If you have any questions or concerns about your personal information or this Privacy Policy, or if you wish to access or correct your information, you can contact our Privacy Officer using the details below:

Privacy Officer – Gowrie NSW
Phone: (02) 8571 9700
Fax: (02) 8571 9790
Email: info@gowriensw.com.au

Postal address 1 Elliott Avenue Erskineville NSW 2043

Alternatively, you may also speak directly with a staff member at your service and they will assist or refer your matter as appropriate. We aim to respond to all privacy-related queries promptly 

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