The client (or parent in case of under 16 years of age) at all times understands and agrees to the following terms and conditions:

1. New Step Podiatry will provide treatment to me, if I adhere to the below terms and conditions.
2. New Step Podiatry has full authority to release or obtain any information/documents to or from any referring medical practitioner, any referring health provider, the relevant insurance company and/or my stated legal advisor regarding my current medical condition that pertains to my treatment.
3. I understand that New Step Podiatry will send a reminder text message 5 days before my appointment (when possible) and that I must reply “yes” or “understood” to confirm. To cancel or reschedule, I will contact New Step Podiatry by phone (02 6198 4818), email (admin@newsteppodiatry.com.au), or in person.
4. I will keep my mobile phone on silent (not vibrate) for the consultation, or notify the podiatrist if this is not possible.
5. I acknowledge that the following behaviours will not be tolerated and that New Step Podiatry will refuse treatment to me if these behaviours are exhibited: • Swearing/verbal abuse/shouting; • recording without permission (still images, video or sound); • threats, including threatening gestures; • any form of intimidation; • any form of violence against another people; • any damage to property.
6. I will arrive on time to my appointment; in the instance that I am running late, I will notify New Step Podiatry before the start of the consultation and I understand that my appointment may be forfeited and a fee of $30.00 will be requested. If payment of the $30.00 fee is refused, New Step Podiatry has the right to refuse any further treatment.
7. I will be at all times responsible for payment of my account in full. I understand that if I am using a Medicare referral, New Step Podiatry does not bulk bill and there will be an out-of-pocket fee payable at the time of consultation.
8. I will need to provide payment of my account in full at the time of consultation unless prior arrangements have been made with New Step Podiatry. For DVA claims, a current GP referral is required. For other third-party funders including NDIS, home care packages, and insurance claims, written communication between the funder’s accounts representative and New Step Podiatry must be received and confirmed prior to the consultation.
9. I remain liable to pay any unrecovered amounts on demand by New Step Podiatry. If full payment is not made within 60 days, I acknowledge a $25.00 administration fee in addition to the consultation fee will be applied. New Step Podiatry may also refer the outstanding amount to a debt collection agency and/or solicitor, and I accept that I will be responsible for any reasonable costs, charges, commissions, or expenses incurred in the recovery process.
10. I understand that New Step Podiatry may use artificial intelligence (AI) technology to assist with clinical note-taking during consultations. This supports accurate documentation and efficient care. If AI is used, my podiatrist will request my consent beforehand, and no audio will be recorded or processed without my permission. I can decline consent at any time. Any AI tools used will comply with Australian privacy laws and store data securely.
11. I understand that New Step Podiatry collects personal and health information to provide care and meet legal requirements. This may include notes, images, or recordings (e.g. gait assessment video) where consent is given. Information is stored securely and managed in line with the Australian Privacy Principles. The full privacy policy is available at www.newsteppodiatry.com.au/privacy-policy/.
12. If you have any feedback or wish to make a complaint, please email admin@newsteppodiatry.com.au. We will acknowledge your concerns within two business days and work with you to resolve them promptly.
13. I understand and will adhere to the Cancellation Policy: New Step Podiatry requires at least twenty-four (24) hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment, or a fee may apply. This allows us to offer the appointment to another client. To cancel, please contact us by phone (02 6198 4818), email (admin@newsteppodiatry.com.au), or in person at 1/37 Kesteven Street, Florey ACT. If you do not attend and do not cancel, a $30 fee will apply for the first missed appointment. A second missed appointment will be charged at the full scheduled fee. If you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice, a $30 fee will apply. Cancellation fees are donated to a selected charity. NDIS, DVA, insurance, third-party, or private health providers do not cover fees for missed appointments — these must be paid by the client.
14. The above terms and conditions may be updated, and the most recent version will be available at www.newsteppodiatry.com.au. I understand the most recent terms and conditions will apply.