Privacy Policy
Last updated: September 2026
Disability Connect is committed to protecting your privacy and managing personal information in line with the Privacy Act 2020, the Health Information Privacy Code 2020, and Ngā Paerewa (NZS 8134:2021).
This policy applies to our website and any online services we provide.
Information We Collect
We collect only the information needed to provide services, support, or communication. This may include your name, contact details, organisation, and information relevant to your enquiry or support needs.
Information may be collected when you contact us, register for events or request tickets to them, subscribe to newsletters, complete forms, or participate in surveys.
Where services involve children or young people, information may be collected with the involvement of parents, caregivers, whānau or authorised representatives.
How We Use Information
We use personal information to:
- respond to enquiries
- provide services, programmes, and support
- register you for events
- communicate with you about services you have requested
- send newsletters (if subscribed)
- meet reporting or legal obligations
- improve our website and services
Information is used only for the purpose it was collected, unless authorised or required by law.
Storage and Security
All personal information is stored in approved, encrypted cloud systems. We do not store personal information on USB drives, personal devices, or local hard drives. We take reasonable steps to protect information from loss, misuse, unauthorised access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. Where information is stored overseas, we ensure the provider has privacy protections comparable to New Zealand law.
Retention
Information is kept only as long as required. Where health and disability‑related records have been supplied they are retained for ten years from the last contact, in line with legislation and our internal policy.
Access and Correction
You may request access to or correction of your personal information. Requests are managed by our Privacy Officer (CEO). Information will be provided in your preferred reasonable format (e.g., large print, Easy Read, NZSL interpreter).
Website Analytics and Cookies
We collect standard website analytics such as IP address, pages visited, links clicked, device type, and browser information. This is used to improve website performance and security. Cookies may be used to support functionality and accessibility. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though some features may not work as intended.
Newsletter Subscriptions
If you subscribe to our newsletter, we use your information to send updates and manage your subscription. You may unsubscribe at any time. We use trusted third‑party email platforms that must protect your information.
Sharing Information
We only share personal information when necessary and appropriate, including with:
- service providers supporting our operations
- event or communication platforms
- auditors or professional advisers
- government agencies where required by law
- funding bodies where reporting obligations apply and information sharing has been authorised or de-identified where possible.
We do not share information for marketing purposes.
Privacy Breaches
If a privacy breach occurs, we will take immediate steps to contain it. If the breach poses a risk of serious harm, we will notify affected people and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner through the NotifyUs process.
Accessibility and Cultural Safety
We provide information in accessible formats and respect cultural identity, language, and whānau‑centred approaches. People may involve advocates or supporters at any time.
Contact
Privacy Officer (CEO) Email: admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz