Privacy policy

This policy explains what personal information we collect, why we collect it, and how we use and protect it. We’ve written it in plain language so it’s easy to understand.

Who We Are

Far North Physiotherapy is a physiotherapy practice based in Cairns, Queensland. We provide physiotherapy and related health services to patients in the region.

For any privacy questions or requests, you can contact us at:

• Phone: (07) 4051 2498
• Address: 2/532 Mulgrave Rd, Earlville QLD 4870
• Email: reception@fnphysio.com.au

What Information We Collect

We only collect information that is reasonably necessary to provide you with physiotherapy care and manage your appointments.

This typically includes:

• Your name, date of birth, and contact details
• Medical history and current health conditions relevant to your treatment
• Details of your injury, symptoms, and treatment progress
• Medicare, private health insurance, or funding scheme details (e.g. WorkCover, NDIS, DVA) where applicable
• GP or specialist referral information where provided
• Payment information for invoicing purposes

If you visit our website, we may also collect basic analytics data such as pages visited and general location (e.g. city). This is non-identifiable and collected via standard analytics tools.

Why We Collect It

We use your information to:

• Assess your condition and provide physiotherapy treatment
• Communicate with your GP or other treating practitioners where relevant
• Process payments and manage your appointments
• Meet our legal and professional obligations as a registered health practice
• Contact you about follow-up appointments or relevant services

We do not use your information for marketing without your consent, and we do not sell your information to third parties.

Who We Share It With

Your information may be shared with:

• Other treating health professionals involved in your care (e.g. your GP, a specialist) where clinically appropriate
• Funding bodies or insurers where required as part of your claim (e.g. WorkCover Queensland, NDIS, DVA)
• Our practice management software provider, which stores patient records securely on our behalf

We do not share your information with anyone else without your consent, unless required by law.

How We Store And Protect Your Information

Patient records are stored securely using practice management software. Physical records, where held, are kept in a secure location accessible only to our clinical and admin team.

We take reasonable steps to protect your information from misuse, loss, or unauthorised access. Our team members only access information relevant to their role.

How Long We Keep It

Under Queensland law, we are required to retain adult patient records for a minimum of 7 years from the date of last contact, and for children, until they turn 25. We keep records in line with these obligations.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Request access to the personal information we hold about you
• Ask us to correct information that is inaccurate or out of date
• Make a complaint if you believe your privacy has been mishandled

To make a request or raise a concern, please contact us directly using the details above.

If you are not satisfied with our response, you can also contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at oaic.gov.au or on 1300 363 992.

Cookies And Website analytics

Our website may use cookies and analytics tools (such as Google Analytics) to help us understand how visitors use the site. This data is collected in aggregate and does not identify you personally.

You can disable cookies through your browser settings at any time.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The current version will always be available on our website. If we make significant changes, we will let you know.

Governing Law

This policy is governed by the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles. As a health service provider, we also comply with relevant Queensland Health records legislation.