Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Personal Information

We collect the following information when you use our services:

• Account Information: Name, email address, password (encrypted), and role (student/parent or tutor)
• Contact Information: Phone number, address, and location details
• Academic Information: Grade level, subjects of interest, and learning goals
• Tutor Applications: Educational background, qualifications, experience, and availability
• Optional Payment Information: Limited transaction details (such as a payment reference or invoice number) if you choose to pay for individual tutoring sessions or other one‑off services arranged through our platform. We do not store full bank card numbers.

1.2 Usage Information

• Website usage patterns and preferences
• Communication logs between students and tutors
• Session booking and scheduling data
• Device information and IP addresses for security purposes

2. How We Use Your Information

2.1 Service Provision

• Matching students with appropriate tutors
• Facilitating communication between users
• Managing session enquiries and bookings made through the platform
• Providing customer support and technical assistance

2.2 Platform Improvement

• Analyzing usage patterns to improve our services
• Developing new features and educational tools
• Conducting research to enhance learning outcomes

2.3 Communication

• Sending important service updates and notifications
• Providing educational content and learning resources
• Marketing communications (with your consent)

3. Information Sharing and Disclosure

3.1 We Do NOT Sell Your Data

We never sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes.

3.2 Limited Sharing

We may share information only in these specific circumstances:

• With Tutors/Students: Basic profile information to facilitate matching and communication
• Service Providers: Trusted partners who help us operate our platform (email services, cloud storage, banking partners for payment verification)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights and safety
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger or acquisition (with notice to users)

4. Data Security

4.1 Security Measures

• All data is encrypted in transit and at rest
• Secure password hashing and authentication systems
• Regular security audits and updates
• Limited access to personal information on a need-to-know basis
• Secure file storage for tutor documents and resumes

4.2 Payment Security

If you make a payment to VCEMentora for a specific service (for example, a one‑off tutoring session), we use secure, industry‑standard methods and store only the minimum information needed to verify that payment (such as an invoice or reference number). We do not operate any recurring subscription or “Access Pass” model, and we do not store full bank card numbers on our servers.

5. Your Rights and Choices

5.1 Access and Control

• View Your Data: Access your profile and account information anytime
• Update Information: Modify your profile, contact details, and preferences
• Delete Account: Request complete deletion of your account and data
• Data Portability: Export your data in a standard format

5.2 Communication Preferences

• Opt out of marketing emails at any time
• Choose your notification preferences
• Control how tutors can contact you

6. Children's Privacy

VCEMentora is designed for students in Years 5-12. We collect minimal information from students and require parental consent for users under 13. Parents can review, modify, or delete their child's information at any time.

7. Data Retention

• Active Accounts: Data retained while your account is active
• Inactive Accounts: Data deleted after 2 years of inactivity
• Legal Requirements: Some data may be retained longer for legal compliance
• Communication Records: Deleted after 1 year unless required for support

8. International Data Transfers

Your data may be processed in Australia and other countries where our service providers operate. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for international transfers.

9. Cookies and Tracking

We use essential cookies for website functionality and optional analytics cookies to improve our services. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will notify users of significant changes via email or website notice. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

11. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or want to exercise your rights, please contact us:

• Email: privacy@vcementora.com.au
• Address: VCEMentora Privacy Team, Australia
• Phone: Available through our contact page