Privacy Policy

Last updated: 1st January 2025

1. Introduction

Howard Consulting ("we", "us", "our") is committed to protecting the privacy of individuals interacting with us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, disclose, and manage personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), including the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

2. Scope

This Policy applies to personal information collected via:

  • Our website contact form;

  • Direct enquiries by phone or email;

  • Other written interactions (e.g., letters, documents).

3. Types of Personal Information We Collect

We may collect:

  • Name, organisation, position;

  • Contact details: email address, phone number;

  • Enquiry content or message;

  • Other information you provide as part of your enquiry.

4. Collection Methods

We collect this information:

  • Directly from you when you:

    • Fill out our website contact form;

    • Send us an email; or

    • Call us directly.

  • Lawfully and fairly, ensuring we only request data that is reasonably necessary for our services.

5. Purpose of Collection

We use collected information to:

  • Respond to your enquiries and communicate with you;

  • Provide, tailor, or discuss our engineering and advisory services;

  • Maintain records for internal management, risk mitigation, and compliance.

We will not collect or use your personal information for unrelated purposes without your consent.

6. Use and Disclosure

We may disclose personal information:

  • To trusted third-party service providers (e.g., IT support, cloud services), as reasonably necessary to deliver our services;

  • If required by law, regulation, or court order;

  • Otherwise, only with your consent.

7. Overseas Disclosure

We do not transfer or store your personal information outside Australia unless legally required or with your express consent. If we do, we will ensure equivalent protection of your data.

8. Security and Storage

We implement appropriate security measures including:

  • Physical safeguards (e.g., restricted office access);

  • Technical protections (e.g., secure servers, firewalls, encryption, password controls);

  • Retention policies that ensure your information is not kept longer than necessary.

9. Access and Correction

You may access or request correction of your personal information by contacting us directly. We will respond in a timely manner and ensure accuracy is maintained.

10. Consent and Withdrawal

  • Consent: You provide implied consent when you provide your personal information for the purposes outlined (e.g., via contact form).

  • Withdrawal: You may withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us. We will inform you of consequences (e.g., inability to respond to your enquiry) and stop future use accordingly.

12. Accessing This Policy

This Privacy Policy is available on our website and can be provided upon request.

13. Complaints

If you believe we have breached this Privacy Policy or the Privacy Act, please contact us. We will investigate and respond promptly. If unresolved, you may approach the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

14. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Policy from time to time. Any changes will be published on our website with a revision date. Please review periodically