Privacy

The Budget website uses non-identifying data to record a user's activity while visiting the website, such as:

• pages the user visits;
• how long the user was on a page or site; and
• in what order the pages were visited.

The website uses software to monitor user activity. When an individual visits the site to read or download information, the software records only their server address, domain name, the date and time of their visit as well as duration of their visit and the information downloaded. This information is non-identifying and is used for statistical and web development purposes only.

"Cookies" are used to gather statistical information that will assist in understanding what users find interesting and useful on our website. These cookies are small pieces of data, identifying you only by random number (e.g. #12489).

No personal information can be identified about the user through cookies. This numerical data is set to the user's browser from a web server and then stored onto the user's computer hard drive. Through modification of browser preferences, a user can elect to accept all cookies, receive notification when a cookie is set, or decline all cookies.

Individuals can access and browse the website without disclosing personal information. The only point on the website where personal information is collected is the website's feedback page. Any personal information collected via the website is used, disclosed and stored in accordance with this Privacy Statement.

This Privacy Statement applies only to this website (www.budget.vic.gov.au). When linking to other websites from this website, it is recommended that users familiarise themselves with each website's privacy policy.

Respecting privacy

The Department of Treasury and Finance respects the rights of individuals' privacy of their personal information, in accordance with the Information Privacy Act 2000 (Vic). DTF has policies and procedures in place for the management of personal information, and programmes in place to ensure staff are appropriately trained.

What is personal information?

Personal information is any information or an opinion that is recorded in any form about an individual whose identity is apparent, or can reasonably be ascertained, from the information or opinion.

What is sensitive information?

Sensitive information is a special category of personal information. It is defined as information or an opinion about an individual's racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, membership of a politicial association, religious beliefs or affiliations, philosophical beliefs, membership of a professional or trade association, membership of a trade union, sexual preferences or practices or criminal record.

What is health information?

Health information is personal information or an opinion about:

• the physical, mental or psychological health of an individual;
• a disability (at any time) of an individual;
• an individual's expressed wishes about the future provision of health services to him or her; or
• a health service provided, or to be provided, to an individual.

Using and disclosing personal information

Personal information is only used for the purpose for which it was collected, or a related purpose that an individual would reasonably expect their personal information to be used for.

Keeping personal information secure

Personal information can be collected electronically or paper-based. We have security processes in place to protect this information from misuse and loss, and from unauthorised access, modification or disclosure. These processes include:

• storage of paper-based documents in locked cabinets or in secure areas which are accessible only to authorised personnel;
• use of computer passwords, automated password reset prompts and timeout screen savers to ensure only authorised personnel have access to computer files;
• use of virus protection software; and
• providing physical security for our building to limit access to authorised personnel only.

Gaining access to personal information

Should an individual wish to gain access to, or correct, their personal information held by this website, the individual can contact the Privacy Officer at the Department of Treasury and Finance.

Write to:
Privacy Officer
Department of Treasury and Finance
1 Macarthur Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
Email: information@dtf.vic.gov.au
Phone: (03) 9651 5218