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Privacy

Privacy legislation at Monash campuses

Australian campuses

The University's Privacy Policy protects the information held and used by the University about all individuals who provide personal information to the University.

NOTE: The privacy laws arise from Victorian legislation. Consequently, the University's Privacy Policy applies only to personal information that a person provides to Australian campuses of Monash University. Students studying at the Sunway campus, Malaysia or at Monash South Africa should refer to local policies in relation to confidentiality or privacy.

The Freedom of Information Policy is associated with the Victorian Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and extends the right of the community to access information in the possession of the Government of Victoria and its various departments and authorities, of which Monash University is one. It controls access to sensitive or private information such as student and staff records.

Monash University values the privacy of every individual's personal information and is committed to protecting the information it holds and uses about all individuals who provide personal information to the University.

Personal information means information or an opinion (including information or an opinion forming part of a database) that is recorded in any form, whether true or not, about an individual whose identity is apparent, or can reasonably be ascertained, from the information or opinion. It may include sensitive and health information.

Monash University is required to comply with a number of privacy laws, including the Information Privacy Act 2000 (Vic) and the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic). The privacy laws regulate how personal information is handled throughout its life cycle, from collection to use and disclosure, storage, accessibility and disposal. This includes personal information that is transferred outside Victoria. It applies to any personal information that a person provides to Australian campuses of Monash University.

Monash University has established a privacy regime that strives to:

  • promote an understanding and acceptance of the privacy principles and their objectives throughout the University community
  • educate people within the University about information privacy
  • handle any complaints received in an efficient and appropriate manner, and
  • monitor privacy compliance and keep the University informed of updates to procedures.

Monash South Africa

Monash South Africa values the privacy of every individual's personal and health information, and is committed to protecting the information it holds and uses about all individuals who provide personal information to the University in compliance with South African privacy laws.

Monash South Africa also supports responsible and transparent handling of information and respects an individual's right to know how his or her personal information will be used, stored and disposed of. It is a necessary condition for Monash South Africa to participate in global e-communications and e-transactions.

Sunway

Sunway values the privacy of every individual's personal information, and is committed to protecting the information it holds and uses about all individuals who provide personal information to the University in compliance with Malaysian laws.

Sunway also respects an individual's right to know how his or her personal information will be used and stored. Sunway also participate in global e-communications and e-transactions.

Student records

The Confidentiality of Student Records Policy ensures the safeguarding of confidential information concerning students from unauthorised disclosure, and relates to all student data held within the University.

Privacy and the enrolment forms collection statement

The following information is provided to inform you on how the University uses your personal information collected in the enrolment forms* you have completed.

The information on these forms (including digital images) is collected for the primary purpose of providing you with the course of study for which you are enrolled. Other purposes of collection include to:

  • correspond with you
  • attend to day-to-day administrative matters
  • inform you about your courses and other University courses/events
  • place your name on the student electoral roll
  • comply with legislative reporting requirements.

The information collected on these forms (including digital images) may be disclosed to the following types of organisations:

  • government departments such as the Australian Taxation Office, the Department of Education, Science and Training, and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship
  • external organisations such as professional bodies, hospitals or government agencies, if the disclosure is necessary in order for you to undertake a practical experience/clinical component in your course
  • off-shore Monash campuses, if necessary for any overseas study undertaken
  • Monash-owned entities
  • contracted service providers which the University uses to perform services on its behalf (such as banks, mailing houses, logistics and IT service providers).

If you choose not to complete all the questions on the form, it may not be possible for the University to enrol you.

You have a right to access personal information that Monash University holds about you, subject to any exceptions in relevant legislation. If you wish to seek access to your personal information or inquire about the handling of your personal information, contact the privacy officer by email at privacyofficer@adm.monash.edu.au.

    * Applies to: `Course enrolment' form, `Unit amendment' form, `Variation to personal details', `Enrolment questionnaire' and `Application for deferment' and digital images captured for student identification purposes.

Further information