Welcome to Surf Coast News. This page explains our privacy policy, how our website is used, and provides clear information about our editorial team and contact details. We have prepared this document to ensure transparency with our readers and to comply with Australian privacy principles and international data protection standards.
1. About Us
Surf Coast News is an independent digital news publication covering local, national, and international stories with a focus on the Surf Coast region and broader Australia. We report on community news, politics, environment, sport, lifestyle, and global events that matter to our readers.
Our editorial team operates independently and is not affiliated with any political party, corporation, or special interest group. Our core values are accuracy, fairness, independence, and responsible journalism.
2. Editorial Contact Details
Readers are welcome to contact our editorial team regarding published content, corrections, privacy matters, or collaboration opportunities.
Postal Address:
Surf Coast News Pty Ltd
Surf Coast Highway
Torquay, Victoria
Australia 3228
Phone Numbers:
Editorial Office: +61 3 5261 7842
Reporters & Analysis Desk: +61 3 5261 7843
Advertising & Partnerships: +61 3 5261 7844
Duty Editor (24/7): +61 4 12 678 945
Email:
General Contact & Editorial: contact@surfcoastnews.com.au
3. Authors and Contributors
Transparency is important to us. Every article published by Surf Coast News is written by an identifiable author with relevant experience.
James Whitaker
Focus: Australian politics and public affairs
Education: Monash University, Journalism (2012)
Experience: More than 10 years covering state and federal politics for regional and national media.
Biography: James specialises in explaining complex political issues in clear, accessible language for everyday readers.
Contact: contact@surfcoastnews.com.au
Emily Carter
Focus: Community news, environment, and social issues
Education: Deakin University, Communication Studies (2015)
Experience: Reporter with a strong background in local journalism and environmental reporting.
Biography: Emily focuses on community stories and the human impact of environmental and social change.
Contact: contact@surfcoastnews.com.au
Daniel Fraser
Focus: Sport, lifestyle, and regional development
Education: RMIT University, Media and Professional Communication (2014)
Experience: Sports and lifestyle journalist covering regional events and grassroots sport.
Biography: Daniel brings a practical, on-the-ground perspective to sport and regional growth stories.
Contact: contact@surfcoastnews.com.au
4. What Data We Collect
- Information voluntarily provided by users (such as email addresses for newsletters)
- Technical data including IP address, browser type, device information, and cookies
- Details submitted through contact forms
5. How We Use Your Data
We use collected data solely to:
- Operate and maintain the website
- Communicate with readers
- Analyse website traffic and performance
- Ensure site security
- Send newsletters or updates where consent has been given
6. Legal Basis for Processing
Personal data is processed based on:
- User consent
- Legitimate operational needs of the website
- Compliance with Australian privacy regulations
7. Data Retention
We retain personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfil its purpose or meet legal obligations. Users may request deletion of their data at any time.
8. Your Rights
- Right to access your personal data
- Right to correct or delete data
- Right to object to or restrict processing
- Right to withdraw consent
9. Cookies
Surf Coast News uses cookies to improve functionality, personalise content, and analyse traffic. Users can manage or disable cookies through their browser settings.
10. Advertising and Partnerships
Advertising and partnership enquiries: contact@surfcoastnews.com.au
All sponsored or paid content is clearly labelled to maintain editorial transparency.
11. Editorial Ethics
Our journalists adhere to recognised journalistic ethics. All content undergoes editorial review and fact-checking before publication.
12. Final Provisions
This privacy policy is effective from the date of publication. Any updates will be published on this page.
