Privacy Policy

Last updated: 28 Dec 2024

Hephzibah Christian Church (hereinafter referred to as "the Church") respects and upholds your rights to privacy protection under the Australian Privacy Principles contained in the Privacy Act 1988.

We collect personal details to manage your relationship with the Church, provide personal ministry, and share information about Church events and activities.

We only collect information necessary to provide services to you or where required by law (e.g., employment or taxation purposes). Without these details, we may not be able to effectively engage with you or provide ministry opportunities.

Information We Collect

The Church collects general personal information like your name, address, phone, email and other details necessary to engage with you effectively. Additional information may be collected when you:

• Register for events or activities.

• Request goods, services, or assistance.

• Participate in Church programs or complete forms.

This information may include sensitive data (e.g., health or belief-related details) relevant to the services or support you request.

We aim to clarify the purpose of collection when information is obtained. If you do not provide certain information, we may not be able to deliver specific services or support.

We strive to ensure your information is accurate and up-to-date. You can request access to your information or notify us of changes by contacting the Privacy Officer as detailed below.

Disclosure of Information

Your personal information will only be disclosed:

• To authorised members of the Church or those assisting in Church activities, on a confidential basis, to provide services or support.

• To trusted service providers engaged by the Church, on a confidential basis, for operational purposes.

• When required or authorised by law.

• With your consent (e.g., for inclusion in a Church directory or event participation).

Data Storage

Personal information is securely stored in Church-managed systems or with third-party service providers. Some data may be stored outside Australia, and by submitting personal information, you consent to its transfer internationally.

Online Security

The Church operates a public website accessible to all, without storing personal data unless knowingly provided by users through forms such as contact forms, event registrations, or newsletter sign-ups.

By submitting personal information through these forms, you consent to the collection and processing of your data as described in this Privacy Policy. While we aim to safeguard online submissions including email subscriptions, form submissions, prayer requests, or payments, the Internet is not completely secure. As such, we cannot guarantee the security of data transmitted online.

We do not sell, share, or trade personal information and only use it for purposes like order identification, event bookings, or newsletter subscriptions.

Our website may contain links to other websites that are not owned or controlled by us. Please be aware that we are not responsible for such other websites or third parties' privacy practices. We encourage you to be aware when you leave our website and read the privacy statements of each website that may collect personal information.

IP Addresses

When accessing our website, your computer’s IP address is logged to enable communication with our servers. While IP addresses can indicate general geographic location, they are otherwise anonymous unless linked to transactions or specific submissions.

Video Recording and CCTV

The Church may record videos or capture images during services and activities for promotional or educational purposes. By attending, you consent to the use of such media in accordance with this policy.

CCTV cameras may be installed in public areas for security purposes. Any footage is used solely for legitimate safety and security reasons and managed under this Privacy Policy.

Use of Images and Videos

The Church may capture photos or videos during events, services, or activities, which may be used for promotional, educational, or informational purposes on our website or social media platforms. By attending these events or services, you consent to the use of your image in such materials unless you specifically request otherwise.

If you do not wish to have your image or video used, please notify the Church before or during the event. We respect your privacy and will make reasonable efforts to accommodate such requests.

Policy Updates

The Church reserves the right to amend this Privacy Policy. Updated versions will be published on our website, and we encourage you to check regularly for any changes.

Questions and Contact

For further information about how the Church manages your personal information or to request access to it, please contact our Privacy Officer by emailing admin@hephzibah.com.au.