Privacy Statement

The Shire of West Arthur values the privacy of all individuals and is committed to protecting personal information as a key part of upholding its core values across all activities and programs. 

The Shire of West Arthur manages personal information by collecting only what is necessary, using it for authorised purposes, protecting it through appropriate security controls, and sharing it responsibly and lawfully. The agency ensures transparency, limits access to those with a legitimate need and maintains accountability for how personal information is handled throughout its lifecycle. 

Collection of personal information

The Shire of West Arthur collects personal information about residents, stakeholders, and visitors to deliver services and carry out functions, and where required by law.  

The Shire maintains a database that includes personal information about property owners and occupants, including but not limited to, names, addresses, contact information, and enquiries associated with a property.  

Personal information may also be collected when it is provided directly to the Shire when:  

• accessing or joining Shire services or facilities (e.g. Caravan Park, Community Gym, Kids Central, Swimming Pool, The Shed)  
• registering for an event or program 
• using or accessing the Shire’s website or social media platforms 
• through correspondence, communication and service requests. 

Personal information is used to communicate regarding Council business, including rates, debts, and complaints, to support security measures that protect Shire assets and public safety, to provide updates on the activities of specific services, to conduct surveys supporting the ongoing research and development of services.

Cookies and website

The Shire of West Arthur uses cookies and session technologies to help maintain, secure, and improve the user experience when accessing the website. Third-party services such as Google Analytics, Internet Service Providers, and externally hosted website functions are also used to deliver services and to collect or analyse website traffic information. 

The information collected through these tools may include a device’s IP address and general browsing activity on the website. These third-party providers operate under their own privacy policies, and where their services or functions are used, any personal information provided will be handled in accordance with those policies.

Social media

When interacting with the Shire of West Arthur’s social media pages, personal information may be collected to communicate with individuals, respond to enquiries, and share information about our services, programs, and activities. This information may also be used to help us improve our communications and community engagement.  

Surveillance and monitoring technologies

The Shire of West Arthur operates 24-hour CCTV surveillance of various Council facilities, and community hubs. The information collected from CCTV enables the Shire of West Arthur to safeguard employees, clients, and visitors, protect our premises and assets, aid in crime prevention and response, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards. 

The Shire of West Arthur and its service providers, including the Council’s rangers, utilise vehicle-mounted dash cameras, and cameras in the course of their duties.  These systems are used to promote the safety and security of employees, and the community, protect Council assets and infrastructure, support compliance, investigations, and incident response, assist in crime prevention and public order management, and meet legal and regulatory obligations.  

The Shire does not actively monitor the system. However, recorded footage can be accessed and downloaded upon request by WA Police, or by individuals through a Freedom of Information (FOI) application.