Privacy Policy

Last updated: 23 May 2026

1. Introduction

Lifeward Family Therapy ("we", "our", "us") is committed to protecting the privacy of all individuals who interact with our practice. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

By using our website at www.lifeward.com.au or engaging with our services, you consent to the collection and use of your information as described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal information:

• Contact information — name, email address, phone number, postal address
• Appointment information — booking details, session preferences, referral information
• Health information — details relevant to your therapy, shared voluntarily during sessions or intake
• Technical information — IP address, browser type, pages visited (collected automatically via Google Analytics)

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information to:

• Provide and manage therapy appointments and clinical services
• Communicate with you regarding your bookings and care
• Process Medicare and insurance claims where applicable
• Improve the content and functionality of our website
• Comply with our legal and professional obligations as an AASW-registered practice

4. Confidentiality of Clinical Information

All information shared within therapy sessions is strictly confidential. We adhere to the ethical standards of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Confidentiality may only be limited in exceptional circumstances where there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or where we are required by law to disclose information.

5. Disclosure of Information

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. We may share information with:

• Your GP or referring health professional (with your consent)
• Medicare Australia for processing rebate claims
• Our booking system provider Cliniko (bound by its own privacy policy)
• Government authorities where required by law

6. Cookies and Analytics

Our website uses Google Analytics to understand how visitors use our site. This tool collects anonymised data such as pages visited, time on site, and general location. No personally identifiable information is collected through cookies. You may disable cookies through your browser settings at any time.

We also use a Facebook Pixel for advertising purposes. This tool may collect information about your activity on our website to help us reach relevant audiences. You can opt out of Facebook advertising data collection through your Facebook ad settings.

7. Data Storage and Security

Your personal information is stored securely on Australian servers. We take reasonable steps to protect your data from unauthorised access, misuse, or disclosure. Clinical records are retained in accordance with professional and legal requirements (generally a minimum of 7 years for adult clients).

8. Access and Correction

You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you, and to request corrections where necessary. To make such a request, please contact us directly:

• Email: info@lifeward.com.au
• Phone: 08 9500 2609
• Address: Unit 5/11 Robinson Road, Rockingham WA 6168

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practice or legal requirements. The current version will always be available on this page with the date of last update shown above.

10. Complaints

If you believe we have not handled your personal information appropriately, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at www.oaic.gov.au or phone 1300 363 992.