Privacy Policy for Melbourne Furnished Apartments

Effective Date: 18/05/2023

Last Updated: 24/01/24

Melbourne Furnished Apartments ("we," "our," or "us") values your privacy and is committed to protecting the personal information you share with us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information when you use our services, including our website (www.melbournefurnishedapartments.com.au), booking systems, and other associated services.

This policy is designed to comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and, where applicable, international standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

By using our website or services, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your information as outlined in this Privacy Policy.

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1. Information We Collect

We collect different types of personal information at various stages of the reservation process and during interactions with our services.

1.1 Stages of Data Collection

1. Initial Reservation:

- Basic booking details such as your name, email address, phone number, and reservation details (e.g., dates of stay, number of guests).

- Payment information to secure the reservation, collected through Stripe.

2. Pre-Check-In:

- Guest verification information, including government-issued photo ID, collected closer to the check-in date via the Hostaway Guest Portal.

- Additional information voluntarily provided, such as special requests or accessibility needs.

3. During Stay:

- Communications between you and our team, including service requests and feedback.

- Data related to property access and services provided during your stay.

4. Post-Stay:

- Feedback provided through reviews, surveys, or direct correspondence.

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1.2 Types of Information Collected

We collect the following types of information based on your interaction with us:

1. Personal Identification Information:

- Full name, email address, phone number, and physical address.

- Government-issued identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license) for guest verification.

- Date of birth (where required by law or property-specific requirements).

2. Booking and Stay Information:

- Property details, reservation dates, and number of guests.

- Special requests, preferences, or accessibility needs.

3. Payment Information:

- Payment card details collected at the time of reservation, processed securely by Stripe. Stripe encrypts payment information during transmission and storage in compliance with PCI DSS standards.

4. Technical Information:

- IP address, browser type, operating system, and device type.

- Website activity logs, such as pages viewed and links clicked.

5. Communication Data:

- Emails, messages, and phone records between you and our team.

6. Health and Accessibility Information:

- Any health-related details voluntarily provided to accommodate your needs.

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2. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information to provide and improve our services, comply with legal obligations, and ensure the security and satisfaction of our guests.

2.1 Booking and Guest Management

• To process your reservation and secure your stay.

• To verify your identity and comply with legal obligations for guest verification.

• To facilitate pre-arrival arrangements, such as property access and amenity requests.

2.2 Communication

• To send booking confirmations, updates, and instructions for check-in and property access.

• To respond to inquiries and resolve service requests.

• To gather feedback and improve our services.

2.3 Payment Processing

• To securely process payments and refunds through Stripe, which encrypts data and complies with strict data protection standards.

2.4 Legal and Safety Compliance

• To meet regulatory requirements, including fraud prevention and tax obligations.

• To ensure the safety and security of our properties, staff, and other guests.

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3. Hostaway: Role in Data Collection and Management

We use Hostaway, a third-party property and reservation management platform, to facilitate data collection, communication, and guest management.

3.1 Hostaway’s Role

• The Hostaway Guest Portal collects information during the pre-check-in phase, including government-issued identification for guest verification.

• Hostaway acts as a data processor, managing your information on our behalf in compliance with Australian privacy laws.

3.2 Security and Compliance

• Hostaway implements encryption and secure data storage practices to safeguard personal information.

• You can review Hostaway’s privacy practices at Hostaway Privacy Policy.

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4. Disclosure of Information

We only share your information with trusted third parties for legitimate purposes:

4.1 Third-Party Providers

• Stripe for payment processing. Payment information is encrypted during transmission and securely stored in compliance with PCI DSS standards.

• Website hosting and analytics providers for site functionality and performance monitoring.

4.2 Legal Obligations

We may disclose your information to government authorities or law enforcement if required by law or to protect the rights, property, or safety of our business, guests, or others.

4.3 Business Transfers

In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale, your personal information may be transferred as part of the transaction.

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5. Data Retention and Security

We implement robust measures to protect your personal information:

5.1 Retention Period

• Personal data is retained for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy.

• Sensitive data, such as government-issued ID, is securely deleted after verification unless legally required to retain it.

5.2 Security Measures

• Data encryption during transmission and storage.

• Restricted access to personal information, granted only to authorized personnel.

• Regular security audits to maintain compliance with privacy laws.

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6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies to enhance user experience, track usage patterns, and improve functionality.

6.1 Types of Cookies Used

• Essential Cookies: Necessary for core website functionality.

• Performance Cookies: Analyze site usage to improve performance.

• Functionality Cookies: Enhance personalization and user experience.

6.2 Managing Cookies

You can manage your cookie preferences via your browser settings.

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7. Your Privacy Rights

Under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and other applicable laws, you have the right to:

• Access and Correct Information: Request access to or correction of your personal data.

• Request Deletion: Ask for your data to be deleted, subject to legal retention requirements.

• Withdraw Consent: Revoke consent for processing your personal information.

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8. International Data Transfers

Your information may be stored on servers outside your country of residence. These transfers are conducted in compliance with Australian and international privacy laws.

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9. Updates to This Privacy Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in laws or services. Updates will be posted on our website, with the effective date revised.

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10. Contact Information

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, contact us:

Melbourne Furnished Apartments

Email: Info@melbournefurnishedapartments.com.au

Phone: +61 3 7044 4506