Overview
At varenthios, we understand that financial education involves sharing personal information, and we take your privacy seriously. This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you engage with our financial foundation programs and services.
We operate under Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) as outlined in the Privacy Act 1988, ensuring your personal information receives comprehensive protection. This policy applies to all interactions with varenthios, whether through our website, educational programs, or direct communication.
Key Commitment
We collect only information necessary to provide quality financial education and will never sell your personal data to third parties for marketing purposes.
Information We Collect
Personal Information
When you enroll in our programs or contact us, we may collect:
Contact Details
Name, email address, phone number, and postal address for program communication and materials delivery.
Educational Background
Previous financial education, career goals, and learning objectives to customize your program experience.
Payment Information
Billing details processed through secure payment providers. We don't store complete credit card information.
Program Progress
Completion rates, assessment scores, and participation in program activities to track your learning journey.
Automatically Collected Information
- Website usage patterns and page interactions
- Device information including browser type and operating system
- IP address and general location data
- Session duration and referral sources
How We Use Your Information
Your information helps us deliver personalized financial education and maintain program quality. Here's how we use different types of data:
| Purpose | Information Used | Legal Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Program Delivery | Contact details, educational background, progress tracking | Contract performance |
| Communication | Email, phone, program updates | Legitimate interest |
| Payment Processing | Billing information, transaction records | Contract performance |
| Program Improvement | Feedback, completion rates, usage patterns | Legitimate interest |
| Legal Compliance | All relevant information as required | Legal obligation |
Data Security Measures
Protecting your information involves multiple layers of security measures designed to prevent unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
Technical Safeguards
SSL encryption, secure databases, regular security updates, and access controls protect data in transit and at rest.
Operational Security
Staff training on privacy practices, background checks for personnel with data access, and regular security audits.
Physical Security
Secure facilities, locked filing cabinets for paper records, and restricted access to areas containing personal information.
Incident Response
Procedures for detecting, responding to, and notifying affected individuals of any security breaches within required timeframes.
Your Privacy Rights
Under Australian privacy law, you have several rights regarding your personal information. Here's what you can do and how to exercise these rights:
Access and Correction
You can request access to personal information we hold about you. If information is incorrect or outdated, you can ask us to correct it. We'll respond to access requests within 30 days and make corrections promptly once verified.
Withdrawal of Consent
Where we rely on your consent to process information, you can withdraw that consent at any time. This won't affect the lawfulness of processing before withdrawal, but may limit our ability to provide certain services.
Complaints Process
- Contact our Privacy Officer directly with your concern
- We'll acknowledge your complaint within 5 business days
- Investigation and response provided within 30 days
- If unsatisfied, you can contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner
Data Retention Periods
We keep your information only as long as necessary for legitimate business purposes or legal requirements. Different types of information have different retention periods:
| Information Type | Retention Period | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Student Records | 7 years after program completion | Educational compliance, verification requests |
| Financial Records | 7 years from transaction date | Tax obligations, audit requirements |
| Marketing Communications | Until consent withdrawn | Ongoing communication preferences |
| Website Analytics | 26 months | Website improvement, trend analysis |
International Data Transfers
Some of our service providers operate outside Australia, which means your information may be transferred internationally. We ensure adequate protection through:
- Choosing providers in countries with adequate privacy protections
- Contractual agreements requiring equivalent protection standards
- Regular audits of international partners' security practices
- Specific safeguards for transfers to countries without adequate protections
Third-Party Services
We integrate with several third-party services to deliver our programs effectively. Each has their own privacy practices:
Payment Processors
Secure payment handling through established providers who meet industry standards for financial data protection. We don't store complete payment card details on our systems.
Educational Platforms
Learning management systems and video conferencing tools that help deliver course content. Student progress and participation data may be shared with these platforms as necessary for program delivery.
Communication Tools
Email services, messaging platforms, and notification systems used to keep you informed about your program progress and important updates.
Children's Privacy
Our financial foundation programs are designed for adults and we don't knowingly collect information from individuals under 16 years of age. If we become aware that we've collected information from a child under 16, we'll take steps to delete that information promptly.
Parents or guardians who believe their child has provided personal information to us should contact our Privacy Officer immediately.
Changes to This Policy
We review and update this privacy policy regularly to reflect changes in our practices, technology, and legal requirements. When we make significant changes, we'll notify you through:
- Email notification to your registered address
- Prominent notice on our website homepage
- Direct communication during your next program interaction
- Updated version date at the top of this policy
Continued use of our services after policy changes indicates acceptance of the updated terms.
Contact Our Privacy Team
Questions about your privacy rights or how we handle your information? Our Privacy Officer is here to help with any concerns or requests.
Address
7/7 Stubbs St
Auburn NSW 2144
Australia
Phone
+61 8 9221 8422
help@varenthios.com