Terms & Conditions - Data Use Policy


Introduction

Welcome to OurLocal, Australia’s own social platform built, owned, and supported entirely within Australia. We value your trust and are committed to protecting your personal information under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). This policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your data — and equally, what we will never do with it. By using OurLocal, you agree to these terms and conditions regarding data privacy and responsible information
handling.

Data We Collect

• Basic account details (e.g., name, email address, age verification).

• Location information (only if you choose to share it for local content and businesses).

• Profile content, posts, messages, and media you upload.

• Transaction details for paid memberships or advertising.

• Technical information such as browser type, device ID, and usage statistics (for performance and security).

We do not collect unnecessary or intrusive data, nor do we engage in hidden tracking or data resale.

How We Use Your Data

• Operate and manage your account.

• Display content and connections relevant to your location or interests.

• Improve user experience and platform functionality.

• Communicate important updates or policy changes.

• Detect, prevent, and respond to security or fraud incidents.

• Ensure compliance with Australian laws and safety standards.

We always use your data fairly, mtransparently, and for legitimate business purposes only.

What We Will Never Do With Your Data  

• Sell or rent your data to third parties.

• Transfer or store your personal information outside Australia.

• Share your data with advertisers without your consent.

• Track your activity for external marketing or political purposes.

• Use your private messages or posts for targeted advertising.

• Allow foreign entities access to Australian user data.

Your information stays protected within Australian jurisdiction at all times.

Data Storage and Security 

All data is stored within Australia on encrypted, government-compliant infrastructure. We adhere to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) guidelines and use multi-layered protection measures including:

• End-to-end encryption for sensitive data.

• Regular security audits and system updates.

• Restricted access to authorised Australian staff only.

• Real-time threat detection and backup systems.

If a data breach occurs, we follow the Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) scheme and promptly inform affected users and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

Age Verification & Safety 

We are fully compliant with Australian online age access standards. Minimum age for account creation is 13 years. Parental consent is required for users under 18 where applicable, and we use AI-assisted and human moderation to prevent underage access and inappropriate content.

Data Access & Control 

You are in control of your data. At anytime, you can:

• View or edit your personal information.

• Request deletion of your account and all associated data.

• Download your profile information for personal records.

• Manage privacy settings to control who sees your content.

Requests can be made through your account settings or by contacting our Australian support team at privacy@ourlocal.net.au.

Data Retention 

We retain data only for as long as necessary to provide services or meet legal obligations. When your account is deleted, all personal data is securely erased from our servers within a reasonable timeframe — unless retention is required by law (e.g., fraud investigations or payment records).

Third Party Integrations 

Where OurLocal integrates with external services (e.g., payment processors), these partners are vetted for Australian Privacy Principle compliance and bound by strict confidentiality agreements. We do not authorise any third-party service to use your data beyond the purpose of fulfilling its function within OurLocal.

Your Rights Under Australian Law 

You have the right to access your personal data, correct inaccurate information, withdraw consent for data processing, and lodge a complaint with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) if you believe your privacy rights have been breached. Learn more: https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy

Updates to This Policy

From time to time, we may update this policy to reflect new legal or operational requirements. All updates will be announced clearly on our website, and your continued use of OurLocal constitutes acceptance of any changes.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, feedback or Privacy concerns, contact us at: 

Email: Privacy@ourlocal.net.au

We're here to protect your data, your privacy and your digital independence