Privacy Policy — BreakdownMechanic.com
Effective: 20 September 2025

BreakdownMechanic.com (“BreakdownMechanic”, “we”, “us”) operates an online directory and tools that help drivers find and contact automotive, truck and agricultural repair services, including after-hours breakdown support. We handle personal information in Australia under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). By using our site, you consent to the handling of your information as described below.

Information we collect. We collect the details you choose to provide (for example your name, email, phone and message content when you contact us), basic usage data (IP address, device and browser information, timestamps, pages viewed and event logs) and, only if you opt in, approximate location to generate directions or pre-fill an SMS/WhatsApp message. We also maintain business listing information sourced from the public domain and from businesses themselves (e.g., names, phone numbers, websites, services, hours and after-hours availability).

How we use information. We use personal information to operate and improve the directory and contact features (click-to-call, directions and messaging links), respond to enquiries, ensure security and reliability (fraud/abuse prevention, debugging, analytics), publish and update business listings and comply with law. We strive for data minimisation: we do not record call audio or message content initiated via your device, and we do not continuously track or store precise location by default.

Legal basis. We process personal information to deliver the services you request, with your consent (e.g., location), to meet legal obligations and for our legitimate interests in running a safe, useful directory. We do not sell personal information.

Sharing and disclosure. We use service providers (hosting, security, analytics, email delivery) bound by confidentiality and data-protection obligations. When you click to call, text, use WhatsApp or open Maps, your telecom or app provider processes that communication. We may disclose information if required by law, to protect people or property, or as part of a business transfer consistent with this policy.

International storage. We may store or process data on cloud infrastructure inside or outside Australia. Where we disclose information overseas, we take reasonable steps to ensure recipients handle it consistently with the APPs.

Cookies and analytics. We use essential cookies for security and core functionality, and may use privacy-respecting analytics to understand aggregate usage (for example pages visited and performance). You can manage cookies in your browser; blocking essential cookies may affect site features.

Location services. Location access is strictly opt-in. If enabled, we use your current coordinates to generate a one-time directions or message link. We do not store precise location by default.

Retention. We keep enquiry records typically up to 24 months, security logs for 30–90 days (longer if required for security/audit) and business listing data while the listing remains active or useful. We delete or de-identify data when it is no longer needed.

Security. We use reasonable technical and organisational measures (HTTPS, access controls, backups) to protect personal information. No method is perfect; keep your devices secure and software updated.

Your rights. You may request access to or correction of your personal information, object to certain processing, withdraw consent (for example, location) or make a complaint. For listing owners, we will update or remove business details on request.

Contact and listings management. For privacy requests or questions, email [email protected]. To add, correct or remove a business listing, email [email protected]. Postal: [Your Business Name], ABN: [Your ABN], [Street Address], [Town/State/Postcode], Australia. Please replace the bracketed details with your actual information.

Complaints. If you believe we’ve breached the APPs, contact us first at [email protected]. We’ll acknowledge your complaint and aim to respond within 30 days. You may also contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC): oaic.gov.au • 1300 363 992 • GPO Box 5218, Sydney NSW 2001.

Children. Our services are for general audiences and not directed to children under 16. If you believe a child has provided us personal information, contact us so we can delete it.

Changes. We may update this policy to reflect changes to our practices or legal requirements. We will post the new effective date when updates occur.