Your Privacy at Avondale

At Avondale University, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that the personal and sensitive information you share with us is handled with care, integrity and security.

This page provides a summary of how we manage your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and reflects our values as a Christian higher education institution.

You can access the full policy here: Avondale Privacy Policy

Who This Applies To

Our privacy policy covers all past, present and prospective:

• Higher education, VET, short course and HDR students
• Job applicants, volunteers, contractors and consultants
• Alumni and donors
• Visitors who engage with our website, systems or facilities

What We Collect

We collect personal and sensitive information to deliver our services. This includes:

• Contact details (name, address, email, phone number)
• Academic records and enrolment data
• Financial information (e.g. tuition payments, HECS/HELP)
• Health and wellbeing information (e.g. counselling, medical certificates)
• Digital activity (e.g. LMS usage, library borrowing, website use)
• Media such as photographs or CCTV
• Biometric or ID data (e.g. for access and attendance)

We collect this directly from you where possible, or from authorised third parties (such as referees, health providers or government agencies).

How We Keep Your Information Safe

We store your data securely using access controls, secure servers and protections outlined in our Data Protection and Information Security Policy

When your data is no longer required, we safely destroy or de-identify it unless required to retain it by law.

When We Share Your Information

We will never sell your personal information. We may share it:

• With your consent (e.g. reference requests)
• To provide educational or residential services (e.g. IT platforms, placements)
• With government agencies (e.g. ATO, TEQSA, Services Australia)
• As required by law or to meet our reporting obligations

We store all of your information securely in line with Australian privacy standards.

Automated Decisions and AI

At times Avondale uses automated systems, including AI, to support:

• Academic quality and progression
• Early identification of students needing support
• Class scheduling
• Library and IT services
• Security and facility access

We always endeavour to humanly review all automated outcomes before making any final decision. However, if you feel automation may have significantly affected you (e.g. academic progression), you can request a human review via the Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure or Appeal Procedure (Academic)

Marketing and Communications

We may contact you about:

• Courses, events and services at Avondale
• Newsletters, updates and alumni communications
• Surveys to improve our student experience

You can unsubscribe at any time via links in our emails or by contacting [email protected]

Accessing or Updating Your Information

You can access or update your details:

• Current and past students: via Student Connect
• If you are unable to access Student Connect: contact [email protected]

We aim to respond within 30 days. In some legal situations, access may be restricted.

Data Breaches and Complaints

If you suspect a data breach, or believe we have mishandled your personal information, please:

1. Report it immediately according to our Data Protection and Information Security Policy
2. Submit a complaint in line with the Complaint Resolution Policy & Procedure

If unresolved, you may escalate to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at www.oaic.gov.au

Need Help?

If you have any questions about how your information is handled, please contact the Chief Financial & Operations Officer at [email protected]