1. Introduction

CarSupermarket and AuctionTime (“we”, “us”, “our”) are part of a unified automotive technology ecosystem that provides online marketplaces, auction services, AI‑assisted communication, and operator‑supported workflows across Australia (“the Platform”).

We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and disclose your personal information when you interact with CarSupermarket, AuctionTime, or any related services.

2. What Personal Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal information:

2.1 Information You Provide

•     Name

•     Email address

•     Phone number

•     Residential or business address

•     Driver licence or identity details (where required for verification)

•     Payment information (processed via third‑party providers)

•     Vehicle details, photos, and descriptions

•     Communications with us, operators, or sellers

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

When you use the Platform, we may collect:

•     Device information

•     IP address

•     Browser type

•     Usage patterns and activity logs

•     Cookies and tracking data

•     Location data (if enabled on your device)

2.3 Information from Third Parties

We may receive information from:

•     Operators and sellers

•     Payment processors

•     Vehicle history providers

•     Identity verification services

•     Advertising or analytics partners

3. How We Use Your Information

We use personal information to:

3.1 Provide and Improve Our Services

•     Facilitate listings, enquiries, inspections, auctions, and transactions

•     Enable communication between buyers, sellers, and operators

•     Provide AI‑assisted support (e.g., Hanna)

•     Improve Platform performance and user experience

3.2 Compliance and Security

•     Verify identity

•     Prevent fraud or misuse

•     Comply with legal obligations

3.3 Marketing and Communication

•     Send updates, alerts, and service notifications

•     Provide personalised recommendations

•     Deliver marketing campaigns (you may opt out at any time)

4. AI Assistance and Automated Tools

Our Platform includes AI‑powered features that help manage enquiries, bookings, and user interactions.

By using the Platform, you acknowledge that:

•     AI systems may process your messages

•     Automated responses may be generated

•     Communications may be monitored for quality and compliance

AI assistance does not replace professional, legal, or mechanical advice.

5. Sharing Your Information

We may share personal information with:

5.1 Operators and Sellers

To facilitate inspections, enquiries, and transactions.

5.2 Service Providers

Including:

•     Payment processors

•     Cloud hosting providers

•     Analytics and marketing partners

•     Identity verification services

5.3 Legal and Regulatory Bodies

Where required by law, court order, or regulatory obligation.

5.4 Business Partners

Where collaboration is necessary to deliver Platform services.

We do not sell personal information to third parties.

6. Data Storage and Security

We take reasonable steps to protect your information from:

•     Unauthorised access

•     Loss or misuse

•     Modification or disclosure

Data may be stored in Australia or in secure international data centres operated by trusted service providers.

7. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to:

•     Improve Platform functionality

•     Analyse usage patterns

•     Deliver personalised content

•     Support advertising and remarketing

You may disable cookies in your browser, but some features may not function correctly.

8. Access, Correction, and Your Rights

You may request:

•     Access to your personal information

•     Corrections to inaccurate information

•     Deletion of certain data (subject to legal requirements)

•     To opt out of marketing communications

Requests can be made using the contact details in Section 12.

9. Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary for:

•     Providing services

•     Legal and regulatory compliance

•     Resolving disputes

•     Maintaining accurate business records

10. Third‑Party Links

The Platform may contain links to third‑party websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices or content.

11. Children

Our services are not intended for individuals under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors.

12. Contact Us

For privacy enquiries, access requests, or complaints:

CarSupermarket & AuctionTime Privacy Officer

[Insert Email]

[Insert Phone]

[Insert Address]

We aim to respond to all privacy‑related requests within a reasonable timeframe.

13. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The updated version will be published on our websites with the revised date.

Continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

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