Protecting Information Rights – Advancing Information Policy

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We're now a part of the Office of the Information Commissioner. Go to www.oaic.gov.au to find out more.

Site Changes

On 1 November 2010 the Office of the Privacy Commissioner was integrated into the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC). An interim website for the OAIC is available at www.oaic.gov.au. This site (privacy.gov.au), which only contains information related to the OAIC's privacy function, will be maintained until a combined site is established.
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Can private schools disclose non-educational related personal information about students to their parents?

Yes. Generally, non-educational material can be given to a parent where the student would reasonably expect this to happen. 

Under the Privacy Act, schools need to consider:

  • the age of the student
  • the nature of the information
  • the student’s expectations about what information might be disclosed.

Policy documents

Clear policy documents available to parents and students could include what non-educational disclosures the school might make. Example: counselling records.

Sensitive information

Where sensitive information is involved, schools will need to consider:

  • the age and best interests of the student
  • the need for parents to be informed
  • the school's duty of care to the student.

Threat to life or health

A school can disclose information to a parent where it is necessary to lessen or prevent a serious or imminent threat to a student's or someone elses's life, health or safety.

Need more information?