Last Updated: 6th December 2024

Introduction
The AVOW app is developed by The Project Factory (Digital Development Factory Pty Ltd, ABN: 38 152 853 800) in collaboration with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ). AVOW is designed to assist individuals with understanding and complying with Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs). This Privacy Policy outlines how AVOW collects, uses, stores, and protects users’ personal information, ensuring compliance with privacy laws and Google Play policies.

NSW privacy legislation

In NSW, the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (PPIP Act) and the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 (HRIP Act) provide the overarching privacy framework.

1. Entity Responsibility

The AVOW app is funded and promoted by the NSW DCJ, an agency obliged to comply with the requirements of the PPIP Act and the HRIP Act.
The Avow app is hosted on the Google Play Store by The Project Factory (Digital Development Factory Pty Ltd).
The Project Factory manages the app’s distribution and technical operations, while NSW DCJ oversees content management and promotion.

2. Information We Collect
AVOW may collect the following types of information to provide and enhance the app’s functionality:

Personal Information: Non-identifiable information including first name, PIN, and ADVO-related information entered by users for app functionality.
Usage Data: Includes anonymised data about how users interact with the app (e.g., navigation, session times) to improve performance.
Device Information: Non-identifiable details like device type, operating system, and app version for troubleshooting and optimisation.

Sensitive Information: AVOW does not store or transmit sensitive information unless explicitly entered by users for their own reference within the app. This data is stored to the user’s local device only and is not transmitted to or stored on any servers.

3. Data Usage
Data collected through the app is used for the following purposes:

To enable the app’s features, such as reminders, planning, and court-related notifications.
To enhance the user experience and app performance.
To provide anonymised, aggregated insights for service improvement.

4. Data Sharing
Data collected through the app will only be shared under the following circumstances:

With NSW DCJ for the purposes of maintaining and improving the AVOW app.
With third-party service providers assisting with technical operations, under strict confidentiality and security obligations.
As required by law or legal processes (e.g., court orders).

5. Data Storage and Security

Personal information is stored securely on users’ devices and is not uploaded to external servers without explicit permission.
Reasonable steps are taken to safeguard users’ information from unauthorised access, misuse, or loss.

6. Your Rights
You have the right to:

Access, update, or delete your data stored within the app.
Contact us with privacy-related concerns or queries at:

The Project Factory: info@theprojectfactory.com

7. Third-Party Links
The app may contain links to external websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these websites. Users are encouraged to review the privacy policies of external sites.

8. Updates to this Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal obligations. Users will be notified of updates via the app or the Google Play Store.

Contact Information
For questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy:

The Project Factory (Digital Development Factory Pty Ltd): info@theprojectfactory.com / 0451 606890