Legal document
Terms & Conditions
The terms that govern use of our website and services.
- Using This Website
- Church Services & Content
- Giving Information
- Third-Party Links
- Questions & Contact
- Read Our Terms
Overview
Terms overview
Clear guidance for using our website and online resources
These Terms & Conditions describe the requirements and responsibilities associated with using the NCHIC website, its information and its online resources. Browse the summary, choose a topic from the contents and read the relevant section for the full wording.
This overview helps you navigate the document. It does not replace the full Terms & Conditions below.
Website use
Guidance on using the website, its information and online resources.
Responsibilities and limits
Where to find the terms that describe responsibilities, conditions and limitations.
Questions and support
Use the complete terms to find relevant provisions and contact information.
About this page
This summary introduces the topics covered. Refer to the relevant section below for the complete wording and contact details.
NCHIC · Terms overview
NCHIC Terms & Conditions
Explore the conditions associated with website access, content and online resources. Read the complete terms for the provisions relevant to your use of this website.
New Covenant Hosanna
International Church
29 Main terms sections
Website & resources
Key points
Start with the introduction and definitions to understand the scope of the terms.
Find the conditions relevant to using website information and online resources.
Read responsibilities and limitations in their complete context.
Use the contact provisions if you have a question about the terms.
Table of Contents
Last updated: March 2026. Contact the church if you have questions about this policy.
1. Introduction & Acceptance
Welcome to the website and services of New Covenant Hosanna International Church (“NCHIC”, “we”, “us”, or “our”). These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) constitute a legally binding agreement between you (“you”, “your”, “user”) and NCHIC governing your access to and use of our website located at nchic.com.au, all associated subdomains, mobile applications, and any other digital or physical services provided by NCHIC.
By accessing our website, attending our services, participating in our programs, making donations, or otherwise engaging with NCHIC, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms in their entirety.
If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, you must immediately cease using our website and services. We reserve the right to deny access to our website or services to anyone who violates these Terms.
2. Key Definitions
- “Church” refers to New Covenant Hosanna International Church, including its leadership, staff, volunteers, and authorised representatives.
- “Services” refers to all religious services, worship gatherings, ministry programs, events, classes, activities, and digital services provided by NCHIC.
- “Website” refers to nchic.com.au and all associated subdomains, web pages, and digital content.
- “Content” refers to all text, images, audio, video, graphics, sermons, teachings, music, and other materials published on or through our platforms.
- “User Content” refers to any content, information, or materials submitted by users through our platforms, including prayer requests, testimonies, comments, and feedback.
- “Member” refers to any individual who has formally joined NCHIC through the membership process.
- “Visitor” refers to any person who attends services or visits our website without formal membership.
- “Volunteer” refers to any person who provides unpaid service through church ministry programs.
3. Eligibility & Access
Our website is generally available to all users. However, certain services and features may have specific eligibility requirements:
- Users under 16 years of age must have parental or guardian consent to create accounts or submit personal information
- Online donation features require users to be 18 years of age or older, or have parental consent
- Certain ministry programs may have age-specific requirements
- Volunteer positions may require background checks and Working with Children clearances
- Access to certain content may require registration or membership
NCHIC reserves the right to restrict or terminate access to any user who violates these Terms or whose conduct is deemed harmful to our community.
4. Website Use & Conduct
4.1 Acceptable Use
You agree to use our website and services only for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms. You may not:
- Use the website in any way that violates applicable local, state, national, or international law or regulation
- Transmit unsolicited advertising, spam, or promotional material
- Impersonate NCHIC, its staff, volunteers, or any other person or entity
- Attempt to gain unauthorised access to any part of the website, servers, or databases
- Introduce viruses, trojans, malware, or other harmful code
- Use automated systems (bots, scrapers) to access or collect data from the website
- Engage in conduct that restricts or inhibits anyone’s use or enjoyment of the website
- Post content that is defamatory, offensive, hateful, discriminatory, or otherwise objectionable
- Use the website to solicit donations for causes unrelated to NCHIC without authorisation
4.2 Code of Conduct
All users are expected to conduct themselves with respect, dignity, and Christian love when interacting with our church community — both online and in person. We reserve the right to remove any content or restrict any user who fails to maintain these standards.
5. User Accounts & Registration
Certain features of our website may require you to create an account. When you register:
- You must provide accurate, current, and complete information
- You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your login credentials
- You accept responsibility for all activities that occur under your account
- You must notify us immediately of any unauthorised use of your account
- You may not share your account credentials with others
- You may not create multiple accounts for the same individual
- We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these Terms
6. Intellectual Property Rights
6.1 Ownership
All content on this website — including but not limited to text, graphics, logos, icons, images, audio recordings, video recordings, sermons, teachings, music compositions, arrangements, and software — is the property of NCHIC or its content suppliers and is protected by Australian and international copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.
6.2 Limited Licence
We grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable licence to access and use our website content for personal, non-commercial purposes only. This licence does not include:
- Reproduction, distribution, or public display of content without written permission
- Modification or creation of derivative works based on our content
- Commercial use of any content, including sermons and teachings
- Use of our trademarks, logos, or brand elements without authorisation
- Framing or mirroring any portion of the website
6.3 CCLI & Music Licensing
Worship music performed and recorded during our services is covered under appropriate CCLI (Christian Copyright Licensing International) and other music licences. These licences permit use within our church services and live streams but do not extend to independent redistribution by individuals.
7. User-Generated Content
By submitting content to our website or platforms (including prayer requests, testimonies, comments, feedback, or any other materials), you:
- Grant NCHIC a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual licence to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, and display such content in connection with our ministry activities
- Represent and warrant that you own or have the right to grant this licence
- Acknowledge that NCHIC has no obligation to publish, maintain, or compensate you for any user content
- Agree that NCHIC may edit, moderate, or remove user content at its sole discretion
- Accept responsibility for any content you submit and agree that it does not violate any law or infringe on any third party’s rights
8. Religious Services & Programs
8.1 Open Invitation
NCHIC welcomes all individuals to attend our public worship services regardless of background, ethnicity, gender, or denomination. Our services are open to the public and there is no obligation to become a member.
8.2 Conduct During Services
We reserve the right to refuse admission or remove any person whose behaviour is disruptive, threatening, or contrary to the safe and respectful conduct of our services. This includes but is not limited to: aggressive or violent behaviour, intoxication, persistent disruption of proceedings, harassment of attendees or staff, and promotion of views contrary to our statement of faith during services.
8.3 Ministry Programs
Participation in specific ministry programs may require:
- Completion of registration or enrolment forms
- Agreement to program-specific guidelines and codes of conduct
- Background checks and clearances for roles involving children or vulnerable persons
- Completion of training programs (e.g., safeguarding, first aid)
- Adherence to NCHIC’s statement of faith and values for leadership positions
8.4 Membership
Formal membership of NCHIC is a voluntary commitment that involves completing our membership process, which may include attending a membership class, agreeing to our membership covenant, and being received by the congregation. Membership carries both privileges and responsibilities as outlined in our constitution and by-laws.
9. Children’s & Youth Programs
NCHIC is deeply committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our care:
- All children’s and youth programs operate under our comprehensive Child Safety Policy
- Parents/guardians must complete registration forms including medical information, emergency contacts, and consent for activities
- All volunteers and staff working with children must hold a current Working with Children Check (Blue Card in Queensland)
- We maintain minimum adult-to-child ratios in line with regulatory requirements
- Sign-in and sign-out procedures are strictly enforced for the security of children
- NCHIC is a mandatory reporter of suspected child abuse or neglect under Queensland law
- Photography and video of children require specific parental consent
- No child will be released to an unauthorised person under any circumstances
10. Donations & Financial Contributions
10.1 General Principles
- All donations to NCHIC are voluntary gifts and are generally non-refundable
- We are committed to using all donations responsibly, transparently, and in furtherance of our ministry mission
- NCHIC is a registered religious organisation and certain donations may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by Australian law
- Donors should consult their own tax advisors regarding the deductibility of contributions
10.2 Designated Giving
Where donations are designated for a specific purpose (e.g., building fund, missions, benevolence), NCHIC will make every reasonable effort to apply the funds as designated. However, if a designated project is completed, cancelled, or receives more funds than needed, NCHIC reserves the right to redirect excess funds to similar ministry purposes at the discretion of the church leadership.
10.3 Financial Accountability
NCHIC maintains transparent financial practices including annual audits conducted by an independent auditor, financial reports presented to the congregation, compliance with all ACNC (Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission) reporting requirements, and segregation of duties in financial management.
11. Online Giving & Payment Processing
Online donations are processed through secure, PCI-DSS compliant third-party payment processors. By making an online donation:
- You authorise the charge to your selected payment method
- For recurring donations, you authorise ongoing charges at the specified frequency until you cancel
- You may cancel recurring donations at any time by contacting our finance office
- NCHIC does not store your credit card or bank account numbers — this data is held exclusively by our payment processor
- You will receive an electronic receipt for all online donations
- Transaction processing fees may apply and are not charged by NCHIC
- In the event of a billing error, please contact us within 30 days for resolution
12. Live Streaming & Digital Content
NCHIC regularly live streams worship services and produces digital content. By accessing our live streams and digital content:
- You acknowledge that live stream quality depends on your internet connection and device capabilities
- NCHIC provides no warranty regarding the availability, continuity, or quality of live streams
- You may not record, redistribute, or rebroadcast our live streams without written permission
- Chat features and interactive elements during live streams are subject to moderation
- Sermon archives, podcast episodes, and other recorded content are provided for personal spiritual growth and may not be used commercially
- We reserve the right to remove or restrict access to any digital content at any time
13. Photography, Video & Media Consent
Photography and video recording regularly occur at NCHIC services and events:
- By attending services and events, you consent to being photographed or recorded in general crowd shots
- Individual or featured photographs require specific consent
- Images may be used on our website, social media, printed materials, and promotional content
- You may request that specific photographs featuring you be removed by contacting our media team
- Photography of children requires explicit written parental consent
- Personal photography and recording by attendees during services should respect the worship environment and the privacy of others
- Commercial photography or recording on church premises requires prior written approval
14. Social Media Guidelines
When interacting with NCHIC on social media platforms:
- Be respectful, kind, and constructive in all interactions
- Do not post content that is defamatory, abusive, discriminatory, or offensive
- Do not share others’ personal information without their consent
- Do not use church social media pages for personal solicitation, advertising, or political campaigning
- NCHIC reserves the right to remove comments, block users, or report content that violates these guidelines or platform terms of service
- Views expressed by individual commenters do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of NCHIC
15. Volunteer Policies & Expectations
Volunteers are essential to our ministry. By volunteering with NCHIC, you agree to:
- Serve in a manner consistent with our church’s values, beliefs, and code of conduct
- Complete all required training, screening, and clearance processes before commencing duties
- Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information encountered during service
- Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to a church leader
- Follow the direction and guidance of ministry leaders and supervisors
- Notify your ministry leader in advance if unable to fulfil rostered commitments
- Represent NCHIC positively in all interactions during volunteer service
Volunteer service is unpaid and does not create an employment relationship. NCHIC reserves the right to reassign, restrict, or end any volunteer’s service at its discretion.
16. Facility Use & Venue Hire
NCHIC facilities may be available for hire or use by external groups subject to the following:
- All facility use requires a formal booking and signed venue hire agreement
- Activities conducted on church premises must be consistent with our values and beliefs
- Hirers are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and insurance requirements
- A security deposit may be required and is refundable subject to the condition of the facilities after use
- Hirers are liable for any damage to church property during their use
- Alcohol, tobacco, and illegal substances are prohibited on church premises
- NCHIC reserves the right to refuse or cancel bookings at its discretion
- Maximum occupancy limits must be observed in accordance with fire safety regulations
17. Events, Camps & Conferences
NCHIC organises various events, camps, retreats, and conferences throughout the year:
- Registration is required for most events and may involve fees
- Cancellation and refund policies are specified at the time of registration for each event
- NCHIC reserves the right to modify event schedules, speakers, venues, or content without prior notice
- Participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and insurance unless otherwise stated
- Medical and emergency information must be provided for camps and overnight events
- Assumption of risk: participants acknowledge inherent risks in certain activities (e.g., sports, outdoor activities) and participate voluntarily
- NCHIC carries public liability insurance for church-organised events
18. Missions & Outreach Programs
NCHIC supports local and international missions and outreach initiatives:
- Mission trip participants must complete comprehensive application and screening processes
- Participants are responsible for their own travel insurance, vaccinations, visas, and passports
- Mission teams operate under the authority and guidelines of NCHIC leadership
- Fundraising for missions must be authorised and conducted in accordance with church policies
- Local outreach activities must comply with all local government regulations and permits
- Participants in benevolence programs agree to maintain the confidentiality of recipients
19. Pastoral Counselling & Confidentiality
NCHIC provides pastoral counselling and spiritual support as part of our ministry:
- Pastoral counselling is spiritual in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or financial advice
- Information shared during pastoral counselling is treated as confidential
- Confidentiality may be broken where there is a legal obligation to report (e.g., risk of harm to self or others, suspected child abuse)
- Pastoral counsellors may consult with senior church leadership when necessary to provide appropriate support
- We encourage individuals seeking professional counselling to engage licensed mental health professionals
- NCHIC accepts no liability for outcomes resulting from pastoral counselling
20. Privacy & Data Protection
Your privacy is important to us. Our collection, use, and management of personal information is governed by our comprehensive Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference.
We comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and all other applicable privacy legislation. For general information, see the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner’s guide to your privacy rights. Our full Privacy Policy is available at:
21. Disclaimers & Limitations
21.1 Website Disclaimer
The website and all content, services, and functionality are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. NCHIC does not warrant that the website will be uninterrupted, error-free, secure, or free of viruses or other harmful components.
21.2 Spiritual & Religious Content
While we strive to provide accurate biblical teaching and spiritual guidance, individual spiritual growth, faith decisions, and life choices remain the sole responsibility of each individual. We encourage all members and visitors to study Scripture personally and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
21.3 Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, NCHIC, its leadership, staff, volunteers, and agents shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, punitive, or exemplary damages, including but not limited to damages for loss of profits, goodwill, data, or other intangible losses, resulting from your use of or inability to use the website, services, or any content provided.
22. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless NCHIC, its leadership, officers, directors, staff, volunteers, and agents from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising out of or in connection with:
- Your use of the website or services
- Your violation of these Terms
- Your violation of any third party’s rights, including intellectual property rights
- Any user content you submit through our platforms
- Your conduct in connection with our services or activities
23. Third-Party Links & Services
Our website and communications may contain links to third-party websites, applications, or services that are not owned or controlled by NCHIC:
- NCHIC has no control over, and assumes no responsibility for, the content, privacy policies, or practices of any third-party sites
- Links to external sites do not constitute an endorsement by NCHIC
- You access third-party sites at your own risk and subject to those sites’ terms and privacy policies
- We recommend reviewing the terms and privacy policies of any third-party sites before use
24. Accessibility & Inclusion
NCHIC is committed to making our website and services accessible to all people:
- We strive to comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards
- Our physical facilities include accessibility features including wheelchair access, hearing loops, and accessible restrooms
- We provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities upon request
- If you experience any accessibility barriers on our website or at our premises, please contact us so we can address them
- We welcome feedback on how to improve accessibility across all our services
25. Dispute Resolution & Grievances
In keeping with biblical principles (Matthew 18:15-17), we encourage the resolution of disputes through the following process:
- Direct Resolution: Where appropriate, seek to resolve the matter directly with the individual(s) involved in a spirit of grace and reconciliation.
- Pastoral Mediation: If direct resolution is not possible, involve a pastor or church leader as a mediator to facilitate constructive dialogue.
- Formal Grievance: Submit a formal written grievance to the church leadership (eldership/board) for review and adjudication.
- External Mediation: If internal processes do not resolve the dispute, both parties may agree to engage an independent, qualified mediator.
- Legal Proceedings: As a last resort, disputes may be referred to the courts of Queensland, Australia. Both parties agree to attempt mediation before commencing legal proceedings.
26. Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Queensland, Australia, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. You agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Queensland, Australia, for the resolution of any disputes arising under or in connection with these Terms.
If you access this website from outside Australia, you are responsible for compliance with all applicable local laws. Our services are based in Australia and these Terms are governed by Australian law.
27. Changes to These Terms
NCHIC reserves the right to modify, update, or replace these Terms at any time at its sole discretion. When we make changes:
- The updated Terms will be published on our website with a revised “Last Updated” date
- Material changes will be communicated through our website, email notifications, or church announcements
- Your continued use of the website and services following the posting of changes constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms
- If you do not agree with the revised Terms, you should discontinue use of the website and services
- Previous versions of these Terms may be available upon request
28. Severability & Entire Agreement
28.1 Severability
If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. The invalid provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid, legal, and enforceable while preserving its original intent.
28.2 Entire Agreement
These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any other policies referenced herein, constitute the entire agreement between you and NCHIC regarding the use of our website and services and supersede all prior agreements, communications, and proposals, whether written or oral.
28.3 Waiver
No waiver of any term or condition of these Terms shall be deemed a further or continuing waiver of such term or any other term. Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.
29. Contact Information
If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback regarding these Terms and Conditions, please contact us:
New Covenant Hosanna International Church
1821 Ipswich Rd, Rocklea QLD 4106
Email: admin@nchic.com.au
Phone: +61 412 275 620
By using this website and engaging with our church community, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.
“Let all things be done decently and in order.” — 1 Corinthians 14:40
Need more information?
If you have questions about this page or would like further assistance, please contact the church team.