Celebrating 10 Years of Free Professional Counselling ยท 2016โ€“2026
Compliance & Policies

Our Commitment to Ethical Practice

Friendship Centre Counselling Services operates under the highest professional and ethical standards to ensure the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of every client we serve.

Code of Ethics

Australian Counselling Association (ACA)

All counsellors at Friendship Centre Counselling Services are bound by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics and Practice. This code sets out the professional standards, ethical obligations, and responsibilities that every counsellor must uphold in their work with clients.

Respect for client autonomy and dignity
Maintaining strict confidentiality
Acting in the best interests of the client
Avoiding conflicts of interest
Ongoing professional development
Culturally sensitive and inclusive practice
Clear and transparent informed consent
Appropriate professional boundaries at all times

Privacy Policy

How we collect, use, and protect your information

Information We Collect

We collect personal information that you provide to us directly โ€” including your name, contact details, and information shared during counselling sessions. We may also collect information submitted through our referral forms, contact forms, and newsletter subscriptions.

How We Use Your Information

Your information is used solely to provide counselling services, respond to enquiries, and communicate relevant updates. We do not sell, trade, or share your personal information with third parties except where required by law or with your explicit consent.

Confidentiality

All information shared in counselling sessions is strictly confidential. Exceptions to confidentiality apply only where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or where we are required by law to disclose information. In such cases, we will inform you wherever possible.

Data Storage & Security

Client records are stored securely and accessed only by authorised staff. We take reasonable steps to protect your personal information from misuse, loss, and unauthorised access in accordance with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

Your Rights

You have the right to access the personal information we hold about you and to request corrections. To make a request or raise a privacy concern, please contact us at [email protected].

Cookies & Website Data

Our website may use cookies to improve your browsing experience. No personally identifiable information is collected through cookies without your knowledge. You may disable cookies through your browser settings at any time.

Last updated: August 2026. If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact Maria Sarina at [email protected].

Professional Indemnity & Insurance

Focus Insurance โ€” Certificate of Currency

Friendship Centre Counselling Services holds current Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance through Focus Insurance. This insurance protects both our clients and our counsellors, ensuring that all services are delivered with full professional coverage.

Insurance Provider

Focus Insurance

Coverage Type

Professional Indemnity & Public Liability

Policy Holder

Friendship Centre Counselling Services

Certificate Status

Current โ€” updated 2026

Questions about our policies?

We're happy to answer any questions about our ethical standards, privacy practices, or insurance coverage.

Get in touch