Privacy and Data Protection
Maribyrnong City Council is committed to complying with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) and the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic), which prescribes how Council must manage collect, manage and disclose personal information and health information.
What is personal information?
Personal information means information or an opinion (including information or an opinion forming part of a database), that is recorded in any form and whether true or not, about an individual whose identity is apparent, or can reasonably be ascertained, from the information or opinion, but does not include information of a kind to which the Health Records Act 2001 (the HRA) applies.
Some personal information is referred to as ‘sensitive information’. Sensitive information can include information about a person’s racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, membership of a political association, religious beliefs or affiliations, philosophical beliefs, membership of a professional or trade association or trade union, sexual preferences or practices and criminal history.
What is health information?
Health Information is any information about a person’s health or disability. It includes information or opinions about illness, injury or disability.
Some examples of health information include:
- notes of symptoms or diagnosis
- information about a health service received or recommended
- specialist reports and test results
- prescriptions and other pharmaceutical purchases
- dental records
- genetic information
- notes on discussion about future health services
- wishes about potential organ donation
- appointment and billing details
- any other personal information, when a health service provider has collected it
Privacy Policy and Health Records Policy
The Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 and the Health Records Act 2001 have informed Council's Privacy Policy and Health Records Policy. A copy of both Policies can be accessed below.
Access to and correction of personal information
Should you wish to access your personal information or feel aggrieved by Council's handling of your personal information, please contact Council's Privacy Officer on 9688 0200.
Access to your personal information will be provided except in the circumstances outlined in the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014, for example, where the information relates to legal proceedings or where the Freedom of Information Act 1982 applies.