Effective Date: 22 January 2026
1. Purpose and Professional Context
Kannen Mediation provides independent, impartial family dispute resolution and mediation services, including matters arising under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth).
We recognise that legal practitioners and their clients entrust us with sensitive personal and confidential information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we manage that information in accordance with:
- The Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)
- The Australian Privacy Principles (APPs)
- Applicable professional, ethical, and statutory confidentiality obligations
This Policy operates alongside any Mediation Agreement, confidentiality undertaking, court order, or statutory requirement.
2. Our Commitment to Confidentiality
Confidentiality is central to mediation. All personal information is handled with care, discretion, and professional judgment.
Information disclosed during mediation is generally subject to mediation privilege and confidentiality, except where disclosure is required or permitted by law.
3. Personal Information We Collect
We collect only information that is reasonably necessary to provide mediation services or to comply with legal obligations. This may include:
- Names, contact details, and identifying information
- Dates of birth and family relationship details
- Information relating to parenting, property, or financial disputes
- Financial information relevant to mediation
- Information provided by solicitors on behalf of clients
- Mediation intake material, session notes, and correspondence
- Administrative and billing information
We do not collect information that is irrelevant to the mediation process.
4. How Personal Information Is Collected
Personal information may be collected:
- Directly from clients or mediation participants
- From legal practitioners acting with authority
- Via intake forms, emails, telephone calls, or videoconferencing
- Through court referrals or court-connected processes
- Via our website enquiry forms
Where possible, information is collected directly from the individual concerned.
5. Use of Personal Information
Personal information is used for purposes including:
- Assessing suitability for mediation
- Preparing for and conducting mediation sessions
- Communicating with parties and their legal representatives
- Complying with legislative and professional obligations
- Managing practice administration and records
Personal information is not used for marketing without express consent.
6. Disclosure of Personal Information
We may disclose personal information:
- With consent, to the other mediation participant(s)
- To solicitors acting for the parties
- Where required or authorised by law (including court orders)
- To professional advisers such as insurers or accountants
- To secure service providers who assist in operating the practice
We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information.
7. Mediation Confidentiality and Legal Exceptions
Information disclosed in mediation is confidential, except where:
- There is a risk of serious harm to a person
- Disclosure is required under mandatory reporting laws
- Disclosure is required or authorised by law
- The parties agree in writing to disclosure
Legal practitioners should note that mediation confidentiality is subject to statutory exceptions and does not override mandatory legal obligations.
8. Storage and Security of Information
We take reasonable steps to protect personal information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, or disclosure, including:
- Secure electronic storage systems
- Password-protected access
- Restricted access on a need-to-know basis
- Secure handling of physical documents
Information is retained only for as long as required by law or professional standards.
9. Access and Correction
Individuals may request access to their personal information or request corrections if it is inaccurate, incomplete, or out of date. Requests should be made in writing and will be managed in accordance with the Privacy Act.
Access may be limited where legally permitted, including where disclosure would breach mediation confidentiality or affect another party’s privacy.
10. Website and Electronic Communications
Our website may collect limited information such as enquiry details or IP addresses. We do not knowingly collect sensitive personal information through our website.
Electronic communications (including email and videoconferencing) carry inherent risks. While reasonable security measures are in place, absolute security cannot be guaranteed.
11. Complaints
Concerns regarding privacy or the handling of personal information may be raised directly with us. Complaints will be handled promptly and professionally.
If a complaint is not resolved, it may be referred to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).
12. Contact Details
Kannen Mediation
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0455 238 884
Address: Sydney, servicing clients Australia-wide
13. Updates to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time. The current version will be made available on our website or upon request.
