27/08/2003

Deputy Federal Privacy Commissioner, Timothy Pilgrim is concerned to hear media reports claiming that some nursing homes have decided to remove the names and photographs of nursing home residents from their doors.

"The federal Privacy Act is about respect, courtesy and common sense," said Mr Pilgrim. "The Act does not prevent nursing home residents having their names and photographs on their doors if they want them to be there," he said.

"It is clear that many people want the items to remain and those wishes should be respected. However, in some circumstances nursing home residents themselves may not want the items on their doors and that should be accepted by the nursing homes, where practicable.

"I am encouraged by comments, reported in today's media, from Mark Brandon, CEO, Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency, which suggests he supports an approach to this issue based on respect, courtesy and common sense.

"Organisations that are unclear about their obligations under the Privacy Act should visit the Office web site @ www.privacy.gov.au or call our hotline on 1300 363 992," said Mr Pilgrim.