Purpose and Our Commitment

At Brightly Early Learning, we believe strong partnerships with families are built on trust, respect, and transparency. As part of our Bright Pathway Curriculum, we value each child as an individual and recognise that protecting your personal information is essential to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment.

We are committed to safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of all children, families, educators, and staff. All personal information is managed in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and the Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) Scheme.

Scope

This policy applies to all children, families, staff, contractors, and visitors, and covers all personal information collected through our centres, systems, and digital platforms.

Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal and sensitive information necessary to deliver safe, high-quality education and care.

Personal Information

• Parent/guardian contact details
• Child enrolment and attendance information
• Emergency contacts and authorised nominees
• Billing and payment details

Sensitive Information

• Medical and health information
• Cultural background and language
• Court orders and custody arrangements
• Additional needs to support development

How We Collect Information

We collect information through:

• Enrolment and waitlist forms
• Direct communication (in person, phone, email)
• Digital platforms and websites
• Employment processes
• Authorised third parties (with consent)

Use of Personal Information

We use personal information to:

• Provide personalised education and care
• Ensure children’s safety and wellbeing
• Communicate with families
• Manage enrolments and Child Care Subsidy
• Meet legal obligations
• Improve our services

We never sell personal information.

Disclosure of Information

Information may be shared with:

• Government agencies
• Medical professionals in emergencies
• Trusted service providers
• Educators directly involved in care

We do not disclose information without consent unless required by law.

Storage and Security

Information is securely stored:

• In password-protected systems
• In locked physical storage
• On secure cloud platforms

Access is limited to authorised personnel.

Data Breaches

In the event of a breach, we will:

• Contain and assess the incident
• Notify affected individuals if required
• Take steps to prevent recurrence

Access and Correction

You may:

• Access your personal information
• Request corrections

Anonymity and Choice

You may interact anonymously where practical, though this may limit services.

Direct Marketing

You may receive updates about services and events. You can opt out at any time.

Website and Cookies

We may collect general website usage data and use cookies to improve the experience.

Record Keeping

We maintain records in line with legal requirements, including enrolment, medical, and compliance documentation.

Complaints

We handle complaints promptly and respectfully. You may contact the OAIC if not satisfied.

Policy Review

This policy is regularly reviewed to ensure compliance and best practice.

Contact Us

Compliance Officer
Brightly Early Learning
Email: compliance@brightlyearlylearning.com.au

Roles and Responsibilities

Management Responsibilities

Management will:

• Provide staff with updates on privacy requirements
• Ensure compliance with privacy legislation
• Maintain secure storage of records
• Implement systems for collection, use, and protection of information
• Ensure consent for use of children’s images
• Provide this policy to staff, families, and volunteers
• Manage complaints in line with procedures
• Ensure confidentiality of staff and family information

Nominated Supervisor Responsibilities

The Nominated Supervisor will:

• Implement and uphold this policy
• Ensure staff and families are aware of privacy requirements
• Obtain consent for photos and videos
• Ensure families access only their own child’s records
• Share only necessary information with educators
• Maintain confidentiality at all times

Educators, Responsible Persons and Staff

All staff will:

• Follow this policy at all times
• Store records and images securely
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Not share information without authorisation
• Ensure families access only their own child’s information

Amendments to This Policy

Brightly Early Learning reserves the right to update this policy at any time to reflect changes in legislation or service practices.

Updates will be made available via our website or centres. Continued use of our services indicates acceptance of the updated policy.

Sources and References

This policy is informed by:

• Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA)
• Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations
• Early Childhood Australia (ECA) Code of Ethics
• National Quality Standard (NQS)
• United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
• Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)
• Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012 (Cth)
• Australian Privacy Principles (APPs)
• Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)