Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

House And Land Packages Pty Ltd (ABN 92 631 641 408) ("HALP", "we", "us", or "our") operates multiple property and business directory platforms including:

www.halp.com.au
www.boutiquedevelopments.com.au
Associated websites within our network

We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). "Personal Information" has the meaning given in the Privacy Act, being in sum - Information or an opinion about an identified individual, or an individual who is reasonably identifiable, whether true or not, and whether recorded in material form or not.

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, disclose, and manage your personal information we collect either from you when you use our websites, services, and platforms or otherwise interact with us, or from third parties.

2. Information We Collect and How we Collect it

2.1 Personal Information

We may collect the following types of personal information:

Contact Information:

Name
Email address
Phone number (mobile and/or landline)
Mailing address
Suburb, state, and postcode

Property-Related Information:

Property search preferences
Property budget and finance capacity
Preferred locations and school zones
Property type preferences (house and land, off-the-plan, etc.)
Investment or owner-occupier status

Professional Information (for Business Listings):

Business name and trading name
ABN/ACN
Business address
Professional licenses and credentials
Professional Indemnity Insurance certificates and details
Trust Account details (where applicable for verification)
Business logo and marketing materials
Service areas and specializations

Mortgage and Finance Information:

Income details
Employment status
Deposit amount available
Current mortgage or rental commitments
Credit-related information (via third-party providers only)

Account Information:

Username and password (encrypted)
Account preferences and settings
Subscription and payment history
Saved searches and properties
Communication preferences

Inquiry and Communication Data:

Messages sent through our contact forms
Email correspondence
Phone call records (when you contact us)
Feedback and survey responses
Customer support interactions

2.2 Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our websites, we automatically collect:

Technical Information:

IP address and device identifiers
Browser type and version
Operating system
Device type (mobile, tablet, desktop)
Screen resolution and display settings

Usage Data:

Pages visited and time spent on each page
Search queries and filters used
Properties viewed and saved
Click paths and navigation patterns
Referral sources (how you found our site)
Date and time of access

Location Data:

General location based on IP address
Precise location (if you grant permission on mobile devices)
Location preferences for property searches

2.3 Information from Third Parties

We may receive information about you from:

Real estate agents, developers, and builders you contact through our platform
Mortgage brokers and financial service providers in our network
Property data providers and aggregators
Credit reporting agencies (with your consent)
Social media platforms (if you connect or share via social media)
Marketing and analytics service providers
Government databases (for school zone and demographic information)
Your employer or organization you work with, in the course of our dealings with them

2.4 Information You Choose to Provide

We may also collect information when you:

Subscribe to our newsletters or alerts
Register for an account on our websites
Complete mortgage calculators
Download property guides and resources
Submit property listings or business directory entries
Participate in surveys or promotions
Provide reviews or testimonials
Attend our events or webinars

3. How We Use Your Information

3.1 Primary Uses

We use your personal information to:

Service Delivery:

Provide access to our property search and discovery platforms
Connect you with property developers, builders, and real estate agents
Facilitate mortgage broker connections and home loan services
Deliver school zone information and property insights
Process and display property listings
Manage business directory listings and subscriptions

Communication:

Respond to your inquiries and provide customer support
Send property alerts matching your search criteria
Provide mortgage rate updates and finance information
Send service-related notifications and updates
Communicate account and subscription information

Platform Improvement:

Analyze usage patterns to enhance user experience
Develop new features and services
Conduct market research and analysis
Test and optimize website performance
Improve search algorithms and recommendations

Marketing (with consent):

Send newsletters about property market trends
Provide information about new developments and listings
Promote relevant services from our partners
Conduct promotional campaigns and offers
Share educational content and buying guides

3.2 Legitimate Interests

We may also process your information based on legitimate business interests, including:

Preventing fraud and maintaining platform security
Enforcing our Terms of Service
Protecting our legal rights and property
Complying with legal obligations
Managing and improving our business operations
Conducting business analytics and reporting

4. Information Sharing and Disclosure

4.1 When We Share Your Information

We may share your personal information with:

Property Industry Partners:

Property developers and builders whose listings you inquire about
Real estate agents representing properties of interest
Property management companies
Project marketing and sales teams

Financial Services Partners:

Mortgage brokers in our network (HALP Home Loans partners)
Home loan lenders and financial institutions
Mortgage aggregators and comparison services

Professional Service Providers:

Conveyancers and solicitors (upon request)
Building inspectors and valuers (upon request)
Removalist and utility connection services (upon request)

Technology and Service Providers:

Website hosting and cloud storage providers (Amazon Web Services (AWS))
Website backups stored on Amazon Web Services (AWS)
CRM platforms (Pipedrive, ActiveCampaign)
Cloud storage services (Google Drive)
Email service providers (Google Workspace)
Payment processors (Stripe)
Analytics providers (Google Analytics)
Marketing automation platforms
SMS and communication service providers

Business Operations:

Our related bodies corporate and affiliates
Professional advisors (lawyers, accountants, auditors, consultants, business analysts)
Business purchasers or successors in the event of a sale or merger

Legal Requirements:

Government agencies and law enforcement (when legally required)
Courts and tribunals (when ordered)
Regulatory authorities (as required by law)

4.2 How We Share Information

Property Listing Inquiries: When you submit an inquiry about a specific property listing through our platform:

Your inquiry (name, email, phone, message) goes directly to the listing agent, developer, or builder
HALP does not store or process these property-specific inquiries
The property advertiser becomes the data controller for your inquiry
You should review the privacy policy of the property advertiser
We facilitate the connection but do not retain your inquiry data

General Platform Inquiries: When you use our general inquiry forms (Contact Us, Join Us, Advertise With Us):

Your information is collected and stored by HALP
We store inquiries in our CRM systems (Pipedrive, ActiveCampaign)
Supporting documentation may be stored in Google Drive
We use this information to respond to your inquiry and provide services
We may follow up on your inquiry via email or phone

Form Types and Data Flow:

Property Listing Inquiries -> Direct to listing agent (not stored by HALP)
"Contact Us" Forms -> Stored in Pipedrive, ActiveCampaign, Google Drive
"Join Us" Forms -> Stored in Pipedrive, ActiveCampaign, Google Drive (for business directory inquiries)
"Advertise With Us" Forms -> Stored in Pipedrive, ActiveCampaign, Google Drive (for business listing inquiries)
Newsletter Subscriptions -> Stored in ActiveCampaign
Account Registration -> Stored in our secure database

Business Directory: If you list your business in our professional directory, your business information will be publicly displayed on our websites, including your business name, services, contact details, and any information you choose to provide.

Aggregated Data: We may share anonymized, aggregated data that does not identify you personally for industry reporting, market analysis, and research purposes.

4.3 No Sale of Personal Information

We do not sell your personal information to third parties. Any sharing of information is done:

With your consent
To provide services you've requested
With service providers who assist us in operating our business
For the permitted purposes in section 4.1 and 4.2, or
As required by law

5. Data Security and Storage

5.1 Security Measures

We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information, including:

Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption for data transmission
Encrypted storage
Secure authentication and access controls
Regular security assessments and updates
Restricted access to personal information (staff need-to-know basis)
Secure data centers with physical security controls (Amazon Web Services (AWS))
Regular backups stored securely on Amazon Web Services (AWS)
PCI-DSS compliant payment processing through Stripe
Staff training on privacy and data security

Payment Security:

All payment processing is handled by Stripe, a PCI-DSS Level 1 certified payment processor
Payment forms are processed securely through Stripe
HALP does not store complete credit card numbers on our servers
Payment data is encrypted and transmitted directly to Stripe
We may store limited payment information for subscription management (last 4 digits, expiry date)
Tokenized payment methods for recurring subscriptions

5.2 Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to:

Provide you with our services
Maintain your account (if applicable)
Comply with legal obligations
Resolve disputes and enforce agreements
Maintain business records

Specific Retention Periods:

Account information: Retained while your account is active, plus 7 years after closure
Inquiry and communication records: Retained for up to 7 years
Transaction records: Retained for 7 years (tax and legal compliance)
Marketing data: Retained until you unsubscribe or withdraw consent
Website analytics: Typically retained for 26 months

After the retention period, we securely delete or anonymize your personal information where that is practical given our storage systems.

5.3 Data Storage Locations

Your personal information may be stored:

On secure servers located in Australia
With Amazon Web Services (AWS) (website hosting, backups and infrastructure)
With cloud service providers who may store data internationally (Pipedrive, ActiveCampaign)

Primary Storage Infrastructure:

Website Hosting & Backups: Amazon Web Services (AWS)
CRM Systems: Pipedrive (cloud-based)
Marketing Automation: ActiveCampaign (cloud-based)
Document Storage: Google Drive
Payment Processing: Stripe (PCI-DSS compliant)

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

6.1 What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit our websites. We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience and understand how our services are used.

6.2 Types of Cookies We Use

Essential Cookies:

Required for website functionality
Enable core features like security and authentication
Cannot be disabled without affecting site performance

Analytics Cookies:

Track website usage and performance
Help us understand visitor behavior
Used to improve our services (e.g. Google Analytics)

Functional Cookies:

Remember your preferences and settings
Enable saved searches and property favorites
Provide personalized content

Marketing Cookies:

Track your interests across our sites
Deliver relevant advertising
Measure advertising effectiveness
Used with your consent

6.3 Managing Cookies

You can control cookies through:

Your browser settings (block or delete cookies)
Our cookie consent banner (customize preferences)
Third-party opt-out tools (e.g. Google Analytics opt-out)

Note: Disabling certain cookies may limit website functionality.

6.4 Other Tracking Technologies

We may also use:

Web beacons and pixel tags
Device fingerprinting
Local storage technologies
Social media widgets and plugins

7. Your Privacy Rights

7.1 Access and Correction

You have the right to:

Access the personal information we hold about you
Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
Receive a copy of your personal information in a portable format

To request access or correction, contact us at privacy@halp.com.au.

7.2 Opt-Out and Unsubscribe

You can:

Unsubscribe from marketing emails using the link in each email
Opt out of SMS communications by replying "STOP"
Update your communication preferences in your account settings
Contact us to request removal from specific communications

Note: You cannot opt out of essential service communications related to your account or inquiries.

7.3 Account Deletion

You may request deletion of your account and associated personal information by contacting us at privacy@halp.com.au.

We will:

Confirm your identity
Delete your account and personal information (subject to legal retention requirements)
Notify you once deletion is complete

Some information may be retained for legal compliance, dispute resolution, or fraud prevention.

7.4 Data Portability

You may request a copy of your personal information in a commonly used, machine-readable format.

7.5 Complaint Process

If you believe we have breached the Australian Privacy Principles or you have a privacy concern:

Step 1: Contact our Privacy Officer at privacy@halp.com.au

Step 2: We will acknowledge your complaint within 7 days

Step 3: We will investigate and respond within 30 days

Step 4: If unsatisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC):

Website: www.oaic.gov.au
Phone: 1300 363 992
Email: enquiries@oaic.gov.au

8. Children's Privacy

Our services are not intended for children under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we become aware that we have collected information from a child under 18 without parental consent, we will take steps to delete it promptly.

Parents or guardians who believe we have inadvertently collected their child's information should contact us at privacy@halp.com.au.

9. Third-Party Links and Services

Our websites may contain links to third-party websites, services, and platforms (e.g. property developer websites, mortgage lenders, social media). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third parties.

We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit. The provision of links does not constitute our endorsement of these sites.

Third-Party Services We Use:

Our service providers and tools may change from time to time as we improve or replace our systems.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) (hosting and backups)
Google Analytics (analytics)
Pipedrive (CRM for inquiry management)
ActiveCampaign (email marketing and CRM)
Google Drive (document and inquiry storage)
Stripe (payment processing)
Social media platforms (sharing features)

Each service has its own privacy policy governing how they handle data.

10. International Data Transfers

Some of our service providers may be located overseas or store data on international servers. When we transfer your personal information outside Australia, to the extent reasonably practical we ensure:

The recipient country has privacy protections substantially similar to Australia, or
We have appropriate contractual protections in place, or
We have your consent

Countries where data may be transferred include:

United States - Amazon Web Services (AWS) (hosting and backups), Stripe (payment processing), Google (business email, analytics and document storage), Pipedrive (CRM), ActiveCampaign (marketing automation)
European Union countries - Data processing services, Amazon Web Services (AWS) regional servers
Other countries as disclosed when you provide information

Specific Service Providers:

Amazon Web Services (AWS): Data centers globally, complies with international privacy frameworks
Stripe: US-based, PCI-DSS compliant, adheres to strong data protection standards
Pipedrive: Cloud-based CRM with data centers in EU and US
ActiveCampaign: US-based with global data processing

11. Marketing and Direct Marketing

11.1 Marketing Communications

With your consent, we may send you:

Property listings and alerts matching your preferences
Newsletter and market updates
Information about new developments and projects
Home loan and finance updates
Educational content and buying guides
Promotional offers and special campaigns

11.2 How We Obtain Consent

We obtain consent to send marketing communications:

When you subscribe to our newsletter
When you create an account and opt in
When you submit an inquiry and consent to updates
When you download resources and opt in

11.3 Opting Out

You can opt out of marketing communications at any time by:

Clicking "unsubscribe" in any marketing email
Updating preferences in your account settings
Replying "STOP" to SMS messages
Contacting us at unsubscribe@halp.com.au

We will process opt-out requests within 5 business days.

11.4 Third-Party Marketing

We do not share your information with third parties for their own direct marketing purposes without your explicit consent.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect:

Changes in our information practices
Changes in applicable laws
Introduction of new services or features
Improvements to our privacy practices

When we make material changes, we will:

Update the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy
Notify you via email (if you have an account)
Display a prominent notice on our websites
Provide a reasonable period for you to review changes before they take effect

Your continued use of our services after changes take effect constitutes acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy.

13. Contact Us

Privacy Officer

For any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices:

Privacy Officer

Email: privacy@halp.com.au

Phone: 1300 137 406

Mail: 235 Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick VIC 3185

Response Times:

General inquiries: Within 5 business days
Access requests: Within 30 days
Complaint investigations: Within 30 days

14. Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ summarises key points of our Privacy Policy in plain language. It is provided for convenience only — the full policy above governs in case of any inconsistency.

Q1. What personal information does HALP collect?

Contact details (name, email, phone, address), property search preferences, mortgage and finance information, business listing details (for advertisers), account information, and technical data such as your IP address and browsing activity on our sites. See section 2 for the full list.

Q2. How does HALP use my information?

Primarily to deliver our property search, business directory, and home loan connection services; to respond to your inquiries; to improve our platforms; and — only with your consent — to send marketing communications. See section 3.

Q3. Does HALP sell my personal information?

No. We do not sell your personal information to third parties. We share it only with your consent, with service providers who help us operate, with property and finance partners you've asked us to connect you with, or where required by law. See section 4.3.

Q4. Who does HALP share my information with?

Property developers, builders and real estate agents whose listings you inquire about; mortgage brokers and lenders in our network; technology service providers (Amazon Web Services (AWS), Pipedrive, ActiveCampaign, Stripe, Google Analytics); professional advisors; and government or regulatory bodies where legally required. See section 4.

Q5. Is my information stored in Australia?

Some information is stored on servers in Australia, but some of our service providers are based overseas (primarily the United States and European Union). Where data is transferred internationally we take reasonable steps to ensure appropriate protections are in place. See sections 5.3 and 10.

Q6. How long is my information kept?

Account and transaction records are generally retained for 7 years after closure for legal and tax compliance. Marketing data is kept until you unsubscribe. Website analytics data is typically retained for 26 months. See section 5.2.

Q7. How can I access, correct or delete my information?

Email privacy@halp.com.au to request access, correction, a portable copy, or deletion of your personal information. We'll verify your identity and respond within 30 days. Some information may be retained where required by law. See section 7.

Q8. How do I opt out of marketing?

Click "unsubscribe" in any marketing email, reply "STOP" to marketing SMS, update your account preferences, or email unsubscribe@halp.com.au. We'll action requests within 5 business days. See section 11.3.

Q9. How do I make a privacy complaint?

Contact our Privacy Officer at privacy@halp.com.au. We'll acknowledge within 7 days and respond within 30 days. If you're not satisfied, you can contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at www.oaic.gov.au or 1300 363 992. See section 7.5.