AO+ Advisory
Privacy Policy
1. Purpose of the Policy
AO+ Advisory (including its Related Entities and Related Bodies Corporate, as defined under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)) is committed to protecting the privacy of personal information obtained through its operations as a professional services firm. AO+ Advisory is bound by the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act), including the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and any relevant privacy code registered under the Privacy Act.
The purpose of this policy is to inform individuals about:
- How and when we collect personal information and personal data;
- How we use and disclose personal information and personal data;
- How we keep personal information and personal data secure, accurate, and up-to-date;
- How an individual can access and correct their personal information and personal data; and
- How we will facilitate or resolve a privacy complaint.
2. Policy Statement
The 13 Australian Privacy Principles apply to personal information, which includes any information or opinion (whether true or not) that relates to an identified individual or can reasonably identify that individual. Information about companies is not considered personal information, but the principles apply to individuals conducting business as sole traders. All AO+ Advisory offices in Australia adhere to policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles.
3. The Kinds of Personal Information We Collect and Hold
AO+ Advisory collects personal information for the following purposes:
- Client enquiries;
- Provision of audit services, taxation and business advisory services, corporate finance, insolvency, financial planning, and related activities;
- Credit information;
- Marketing services;
- Human resources.
The types of personal information we may collect and hold include:
- Name, company name, residency, date of birth, and country of residence;
- Job title, employer, and Tax File Number;
- Employee records, CVs, and resumes;
- Contact details such as address, email, and phone number;
- Financial records, bank account details, and credit/debit card details;
- Business and mailing addresses;
- Qualifications, memberships, and accreditations;
- Racial or ethnic background, political or religious beliefs;
- Online interactions including website, publications, alerts, and social media activity.
Additionally, we collect certain information not directly provided, such as IP addresses, browsing patterns, and cookie status. We only collect information necessary for our business functions.
4. How We Collect Personal Information
AO+ Advisory primarily collects personal information directly from individuals through verbal or written means, including emails and web forms. However, we may also collect information from third parties such as:
- Associates of clients or prospective clients;
- Business cards;
- References provided for employment applications;
- Public sources such as court records, social media, and directories.
Our website uses cookies to enhance user experience. Users may disable cookies via browser settings, though this may impact site functionality. We also log IP addresses to diagnose server issues and administer our website.
If we receive unsolicited information not required for our business purposes, we will de-identify or destroy it unless it pertains to potential employment opportunities.
5. How We Use Your Personal Information
AO+ Advisory uses personal information for purposes including:
- Internal business processes;
- Client communications;
- Marketing;
- Compliance with legal obligations;
- Handling enquiries and complaints.
Tax file numbers are only collected, used, and disclosed in accordance with Australian Taxation Office requirements.
Sensitive information (e.g., racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious beliefs, trade memberships, or biometric data) is collected only when necessary. We take all reasonable steps to ensure secure storage and use of such data.
6. Disclosure of Personal Information
We may disclose personal information to:
- Third-party service providers for administrative, IT, and marketing support;
- Related entities and bodies corporate of AO+ Advisory;
- Third parties involved in business transactions;
- Contractors, agents, and superannuation administrators;
- The Australian Taxation Office and other regulatory bodies.
We may disclose information to credit reporting agencies and other credit providers. In legal cases, we comply with court orders and other legal obligations.
Overseas Disclosures
Some personal information may be disclosed to overseas recipients, including but not limited to India, Israel, Mauritius, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. AO+ Advisory takes reasonable steps to ensure overseas recipients handle personal information in compliance with the Privacy Act. By submitting personal information to AO+ Advisory, individuals consent to its potential overseas disclosure.
7. Direct Marketing
AO+ Advisory may use personal information for direct marketing via email, SMS, phone, or other methods. Individuals may opt out of such communications at any time by using the “unsubscribe” option or contacting us directly.
8. Credit Information and Reporting
As a credit provider under the Privacy Act, AO+ Advisory collects and stores credit information in accordance with our Credit Reporting Policy.
9. Storage and Security of Personal Information
AO+ Advisory takes reasonable steps to protect personal information using physical and electronic security measures. Personal data is primarily stored in Australia; however, in some cases, secure overseas storage may be used when necessary.
10. Accuracy of Personal Information
We strive to ensure personal information is accurate, complete, and up to date. Individuals should notify us of any necessary corrections.
11. Access to Personal Information
Individuals have the right to request access to their personal information. Requests are acknowledged within seven days and responded to within 30 days. AO+ Advisory may refuse requests in limited circumstances as permitted under the Privacy Act.
12. Complaints
Privacy complaints can be lodged via our Contact Form. AO+ Advisory acknowledges complaints within one business day and aims to resolve them within 30 days. We will liaise with the complainant and may seek additional information if necessary.
13. Consent, Modifications, and Updates
This Privacy Policy may be modified or updated from time to time to reflect legal or operational changes. By engaging with AO+ Advisory, individuals agree to the terms of this policy. Any significant changes will be communicated via our website or other appropriate means.
For privacy-related enquiries or concerns, please contact our Privacy Officer at Office.aoplus@gmail.com or call 045 261 7587.