Privacy Officer – Healthcare Sector

About the Company

Limestone Coast Community Health Services is a leading healthcare provider dedicated to delivering exceptional care and fostering a healthy community across the Limestone Coast region of South Australia. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of patient privacy and data security, ensuring trust and compliance in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Join our team and contribute to a vital service that values integrity, innovation, and compassion.

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Privacy Officer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our privacy program, ensuring compliance with Australian privacy legislation (e.g., Privacy Act 1988, Australian Privacy Principles) and healthcare-specific regulations. This role involves developing, implementing, and maintaining privacy policies and procedures, conducting privacy impact assessments, managing data breach responses, and providing training to staff. The Privacy Officer will act as a key advisor to management on privacy matters, fostering a culture of privacy awareness and accountability throughout our services.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive privacy policies, procedures, and guidelines in line with relevant legislation and best practices.
• Conduct regular privacy impact assessments (PIAs) for new projects, systems, and initiatives involving personal and sensitive health information.
• Manage and investigate privacy breaches and incidents, ensuring timely reporting and resolution in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to staff, management, and stakeholders on all aspects of privacy compliance and data protection.
• Develop and deliver ongoing privacy training and awareness programs for all employees.
• Act as the primary contact point for privacy-related inquiries, complaints, and requests from individuals and regulatory bodies.
• Monitor changes in privacy laws and regulations and recommend necessary adjustments to internal policies and practices.
• Collaborate with IT security teams to ensure the appropriate technical and organizational measures are in place to protect personal information.
• Maintain accurate records of all privacy-related activities, including policies, training, PIAs, and incident responses.

Required Skills

• Demonstrated experience (minimum 3 years) in a privacy, compliance, or risk management role, preferably within the healthcare sector.
• In-depth knowledge of Australian privacy legislation, including the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
• Strong understanding of data security principles and best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Proven ability to develop, implement, and manage privacy programs and policies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• Tertiary qualification in Law, Information Management, Health Administration, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant privacy certification (e.g., CIPP/A, CIPM).
• Experience with health information management systems (HIMS).
• Knowledge of health record-keeping standards and practices.
• Experience in incident response and crisis management.

Perks & Benefits

• Competitive salary and superannuation contributions.
• Generous leave entitlements, including professional development leave.
• Access to ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on community health and privacy.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for suitable candidates.

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