Introduction
Scribbly and The Scribbler is a BookTree Publishing (ABN 47 438 219 632) Initiative. It is a volunteer-led writing community and resource hub based in Queensland, Australia. We respect your privacy and are committed to handling your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
This Privacy Policy explains what personal information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have. By using our website (https://scribbly.com.au), you agree to the terms in this policy.
What personal information we collect
We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide when using our website or contacting us, including:
- your name and email address (e.g. when leaving comments or using contact forms)
- information you submit for mentoring, workshops, or newsletter subscriptions
- comments and messages you post publicly
- technical information such as your IP address, browser type, and device information used for analytics or spam protection
Comments
When visitors leave comments, we collect the data shown in the comments form, your IP address, and browser user agent to help detect spam.
An anonymised version of your email address may be provided to the Gravatar service to check if you use it. You can read their policy at https://automattic.com/privacy/.
Media uploads
If you upload images, please avoid including embedded location data (EXIF GPS). Visitors to the site may be able to download and extract location data from images displayed publicly.
Cookies
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience. Cookies may store:
- your name and email (if you choose to save them for future comments)
- login preferences for registered users
- display settings and session preferences
Most cookies expire within one year. You can disable cookies through your browser; however, some site features may not function correctly.
Embedded content
Articles may include embedded content (e.g. videos, social media posts, external articles). Embedded content behaves as if you visited the external website directly and may collect data according to their privacy policies.
Analytics and security
We use basic analytics tools and automated spam detection services to protect our site and improve user experience. These may collect anonymised traffic data such as IP addresses, pages viewed, and browser information.
How we use your information
Your information is used to:
- respond to enquiries and provide mentoring or workshop support
- manage subscriptions to The Scribbler magazine or email updates
- moderate and display comments
- improve the Scribbly website and community resources
- protect the website from spam, fraud, and security threats
Who we share your data with
Your personal information is not sold or shared with third parties except where required for website functionality, such as:
- email newsletter tools (e.g. standard mailing providers)
- security and spam protection tools
- website hosting and technical support services
If you request a password reset, your IP address may be included in the reset email.
How long we retain your data
We keep information only for as long as reasonably necessary for our functions or legal obligations. This includes:
- Comments: kept indefinitely for transparency and community history.
- Registered accounts: users can view, edit, or delete their information at any time.
- Contact forms: retained only as long as needed to respond to your enquiry.
Your rights
You have the right to:
- request access to the personal information we hold about you
- request corrections to inaccurate or outdated information
- request deletion of your personal data (where legally permitted)
- opt out of communications at any time
To exercise these rights, please contact us at contact@scribbly.com.au.
Where your data is stored or sent
Data is stored securely through reputable Australian or international service providers that comply with Australian privacy standards. Visitor comments may be checked through automated spam detection services.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Scribbly uses AI tools to support content creation, editing, or design. All AI-assisted content is reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy, appropriateness, and compliance with Australian standards.
We do not share your personal information with AI tools unless it is necessary for producing specific content you request. Where personal information is used, it is handled in line with this Privacy Policy and the Australian Privacy Principles.
Contact us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your personal information, please contact us:
Email: contact@scribbly.com.au
Website: https://scribbly.com.au
Location: Moreton Bay Region, Queensland, Australia
This policy was last updated in November 2025.