Contents
When it comes to the disclosure of personal information, it’s essential to review the current privacy laws, especially as we progress through 2025. Staying informed helps you protect your business and your clients’ sensitive data.
Privacy is taken very seriously in Australia, so you want to make sure you’re compliant with the Privacy Act 1988 and are familiar with the 13 Australian Privacy Principles. For further reading on maintaining compliance in today’s evolving landscape, check out our Privacy Policy Guide.
When Would I Need A Consent Form?
Most businesses inevitably manage and handle people’s personal information. For example:
- Doctors who handle health information
- Ecommerce stores who collect payment details
- Photographers capturing images at events
- Businesses engaging in research requiring participant data
Let’s examine the last example a little more closely. A Consent Form allows individuals to expressly agree to your business using and disclosing their personal information to third parties, thus ensuring you remain compliant with the latest privacy laws in 2025.
If you’re engaging participants in a study or survey, they must consent to the terms of your project – particularly because you will be collecting their personal details. It is now common practice to include digital consent processes that are streamlined and transparent for users. For more on how digital consent works in today’s environment, see our Online Business Privacy Guide.
What Kind Of Information Requires A Consent Form?
Generally, if a business is collecting and handling sensitive information, express consent is required. Sensitive information may include details about:
- Ethnic origin
- Political beliefs
- Religious or philosophical beliefs
- Sexual preferences
- Criminal record
- Health or genetic information
For more insight into handling sensitive information in line with 2025 standards, please visit our Privacy Policy 2025 Overview.
What Does A Participant Consent Form Cover?
Generally, a Participant Consent Form will cover several key aspects, such as:
- The terms and objectives of the study or project
- How personal information will be collected, stored, and potentially shared
- Details of the information being collected and the purposes for its collection
- The responsibilities of both parties for the duration of the study
- The potential consequences should the consent not be granted or be withdrawn
This comprehensive approach complies with the requirement to obtain consent to the handling of personal information. It is critical to ensure that your consent form remains clear and up-to-date with the latest legislative requirements.
Furthermore, it’s beneficial to periodically review and update your consent procedures, especially as digital data collection methods evolve. This proactive approach not only safeguards your business against potential breaches but also builds trust with your clients.
Can I Withdraw My Consent?
Yes, you can withdraw your consent at any time. If you’re the business obtaining consent, it is your responsibility to ensure that the process for withdrawal is clear and straightforward. In other words, your participants should have an easy, uncomplicated path to opt out if they no longer wish to be involved.
Consent must always be:
- Voluntary
- Current
- Informed
- Made with legal capacity
For detailed guidance on managing consent withdrawals and understanding your obligations, you might find our Privacy Policy Service helpful.
Where Can I Get A Participant Consent Form?
If your business needs a consent form for your study or research activities, we’ve got you covered. Sprintlaw offers a Participant Consent Form package which includes:
- Drafting a tailored Participant Consent Form addressing your specific requirements
- Phone consultations with a Sprintlaw lawyer to answer your legal queries
- A complimentary amendment to the final draft provided
Need Help?
Our lawyers work closely with you to ensure that your specific needs are met. When it comes to privacy, we understand that businesses must take extra steps to remain compliant with the Privacy Act as well as other international privacy laws, particularly for operations extending overseas. We also offer guidance on related areas, such as terms of sale and company set-up, to further support your business operations in this digital era.
If you’d like to discuss your options further, feel free to contact us at 1800 730 617 or team@sprintlaw.com.au for a free, no-obligations consultation.
Get in touch now!
We'll get back to you within 1 business day.
Top 3 Legal Mistakes
Book in a free consultation with us to discuss your legal needs.