Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

Running a franchise consultation business means we need certain details to provide you with relevant advice and support. Here's what we typically collect and why it matters.

Personal Information

When you reach out through our website or contact us directly, we collect basic contact details. This includes your name, email address, phone number, and business address. We also note your location within Australia since franchise regulations and opportunities vary by state.

Financial Information

Franchise consulting requires discussing financial capacity and planning. We collect information about your investment range, current business holdings, and financial objectives. We don't need detailed bank statements or account numbers at the initial stage. That level of detail comes later if you decide to pursue specific opportunities.

Technical Data

Our website collects standard technical information when you visit. This includes your IP address, browser type, device information, and how you navigate through our site. We use this to improve the website experience and understand which content proves most helpful.

• Browser and device specifications
• Pages visited and time spent on each section
• Geographic location at the regional level
• Referral sources that brought you to our site
• Downloads of franchise information materials

2. How We Use Your Information

Everything we collect serves specific purposes related to helping you explore franchise opportunities. We're not in the business of selling data or sending unrelated marketing materials.

Communication Purposes

We'll contact you about franchise opportunities that match your criteria, respond to your inquiries, and share relevant industry updates. You can adjust how often you hear from us or opt out of certain types of communication.

3. Sharing Your Information

We're selective about who sees your details. Here's the complete picture of when and why we might share your information with others.

We never sell your personal information to third parties. Any sharing happens with your knowledge and relates directly to services you've requested or opportunities you're pursuing.

4. Your Rights Under Australian Law

The Privacy Act 1988 gives you specific rights regarding your personal information. We've built our systems to make exercising these rights straightforward.

1. Access Your Information

   You can request a copy of all personal information we hold about you. We'll provide this within 30 days, usually much sooner. There's no charge for reasonable requests.

2. Correct Inaccurate Data

   If something in our records is wrong or outdated, let us know. We'll update it promptly. This matters because inaccurate information could lead to unsuitable franchise recommendations.

3. Request Deletion

   You can ask us to delete your information if you're no longer pursuing franchise opportunities. We'll comply unless we have legal obligations to retain certain records, such as financial transaction history.

4. Restrict Processing

   If you're disputing the accuracy of information or have concerns about how we're using it, you can ask us to pause most processing while we sort things out.

5. Withdraw Consent

   Where we're processing your information based on consent rather than legal necessity, you can withdraw that consent at any time. This won't affect previous processing done with your permission.

5. Data Security Measures

Protecting your information isn't just about compliance, it's about maintaining the trust you place in us. We've implemented multiple layers of security.

Digital Security

Our website uses SSL encryption for all data transmission. Client information is stored on Australian servers with enterprise-grade security, including regular backups and access controls. We use two-factor authentication for staff access to sensitive systems.

Physical Security

Paper files containing client information are stored in locked cabinets at our Coffs Harbour office. Access is limited to staff members working directly on your consultation. We shred documents before disposal.

Staff Training

Everyone on our team receives regular privacy training. They understand their obligations under Australian privacy law and our internal policies. We conduct annual audits of our privacy practices.

• Encrypted email communication for sensitive discussions
• Regular security updates and system patches
• Limited access based on role requirements
• Secure password policies enforced across all platforms
• Regular vulnerability assessments of our systems

6. Data Retention Periods

We don't keep information longer than necessary. Here's how long different types of data typically remain in our systems.

Active client files are maintained throughout our consulting relationship and for seven years afterward. This aligns with Australian tax and business record requirements. After seven years, we delete or anonymize information unless there's a specific legal reason to retain it longer.

If you make an inquiry but don't proceed with our services, we keep your contact information for two years. This allows us to follow up if circumstances change or new opportunities arise that match your original interests. You can request earlier deletion at any time.

Website analytics data is retained for three years to help us understand long-term trends in how people use our resources. This data is anonymized and can't be linked back to specific individuals.

7. International Data Transfers

We primarily work within Australia, but franchise consulting sometimes involves international connections. Here's what that means for your data.

Some franchise brands we work with are headquartered overseas. If you express interest in an international franchise, we may need to share your information with their head office. This only happens with your explicit permission and after explaining the privacy implications.

Our email and CRM systems are provided by companies with global operations. While your data is stored on Australian servers, support staff in other countries may occasionally access systems for technical maintenance. These providers are contractually bound to Australian privacy standards.

We don't routinely transfer personal information outside Australia without your knowledge. If it becomes necessary, we'll inform you beforehand and ensure appropriate safeguards are in place.

8. Cookies and Website Tracking

Our website uses cookies to improve your experience and help us understand which content proves most valuable. You have control over how these work.

Essential Cookies

These make the website function properly. They remember your preferences during a session and keep you logged into secure areas if you have an account. These cookies don't track you across other websites.

Analytics Cookies

We use Google Analytics to understand how people navigate our site. This shows us which franchise sectors get the most attention and which resources prove most helpful. The data is anonymized and aggregated.

Managing Cookies

Your browser lets you block or delete cookies. Be aware that blocking essential cookies may affect website functionality. Most browsers allow you to block third-party cookies while keeping functional ones active.

9. Changes to This Policy

Privacy practices evolve as technology and regulations change. We review this policy annually and update it when needed.

When we make significant changes, we'll notify active clients by email. The updated policy will always be available on our website with a clear "last updated" date at the top. Changes typically reflect new privacy laws, updated security measures, or expanded services.

Continuing to work with us after policy updates means you accept the revised terms. If you're uncomfortable with changes, contact us to discuss your concerns or request deletion of your information.

10. Privacy Complaints

We take privacy concerns seriously and have a clear process for addressing them.

1. Contact Us Directly

   Start by emailing contact@quintheraos.com with details of your concern. We'll acknowledge your complaint within two business days and assign someone to investigate who wasn't involved in the original situation.

2. Investigation Process

   We'll review what happened, speak with relevant staff, and examine our records. This typically takes 5-10 business days depending on complexity. You'll receive a written response explaining our findings and any corrective actions.

3. External Review

   If you're not satisfied with our response, you can lodge a complaint with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. They provide free, independent review of privacy complaints. Visit oaic.gov.au for their complaint process.