Terms and Conditions for SciComm Strategy
Freelance Writing, Marketing and Communication Strategy Services
(Effective from 28 March 2025)
These Terms and Conditions (“Agreement”) govern the services provided by SciComm Strategy (“Freelancer”) to the client (“Client”) for freelance writing and communication strategy services. By engaging SciComm Strategy for services, the Client agrees to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.
1. Services
SciComm Strategy agrees to provide freelance consulting, writing, marketing and communication strategy services as outlined in the service agreement or project proposal. The scope, timeline, and deliverables will be agreed upon in writing prior to the commencement of the project.
2. Payment Terms
a. Advance Payment: The Client agrees to pay 50% of the total project fee as a non-refundable deposit upon acceptance of the proposal or project outline. This deposit is due before any work begins. Payment can be made via EFT bank transfer or credit card.
b. Final Payment: The remaining 50% of the total project fee is due upon completion of the project, prior to delivery of the final work product. The final payment can also be made via EFT bank transfer or credit card.
c. Late Payment: If the Client fails to make payment by the due date, a late fee of 2% per month will apply. SciComm Strategy reserves the right to suspend or terminate work until full payment is received.
d. GST: All amounts specified are exclusive of GST unless otherwise stated. If GST applies, the applicable amount will be added to the total fee.
3. Cancellation & Refund Policy
a. Cancellation by Client: If the Client decides to cancel the project before completion, the advance payment (50%) is non-refundable. The Freelancer will retain the deposit to cover the work completed up to that point, unless the service has not been provided in accordance with the agreement.
b. Cancellation by Freelancer: If SciComm Strategy is unable to proceed with the project due to unforeseen circumstances, any paid fees (advance or final payment) will be refunded to the Client in full.
c. Consumer Rights: Nothing in these Terms and Conditions affects the Client’s statutory rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
4. Delivery of Work
a. Timelines: SciComm Strategy will provide an estimated timeline for the project, which may be subject to change based on the complexity of the work and the Client’s responsiveness. SciComm Strategy will make reasonable efforts to meet deadlines but cannot be held responsible for delays due to unforeseen circumstances or Client delays in providing necessary information or feedback.
b. Revisions: The Client is entitled to two rounds of revisions as part of the project fee. Any further revisions or changes outside the agreed scope will be subject to additional fees, which will be agreed upon by both parties.
5. Intellectual Property
a. Ownership of Work: Upon receipt of full payment, all intellectual property rights (copyright) for the final deliverables will be transferred to the Client. The Freelancer retains the right to use the work in portfolios, marketing materials, or other professional applications.
b. License: Until full payment is made, the Client is granted a limited, non-exclusive license to use the deliverables for the agreed purpose.
6. Confidentiality
Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of all proprietary information disclosed during the course of the project. This includes, but is not limited to, the Client’s business plans, marketing strategies, and any sensitive data shared during collaboration.
7. Liability
SciComm Strategy will make every effort to provide accurate, high-quality work. However, the Freelancer is not liable for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use or implementation of the work delivered. The Client is responsible for verifying the accuracy and appropriateness of the content.
8. Indemnification
The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless SciComm Strategy from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from the use of the work produced, including any claims of copyright infringement, defamation, or any other legal action.
9. Governing Law
This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of your state or territory within Australia. Any disputes arising under or in connection with this Agreement will be resolved in the courts of your state or territory within Australia. Both parties agree to attempt resolution through alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, including mediation, before initiating legal action.
10. Privacy
The Freelancer agrees to comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) in handling any personal information provided by the Client. The information collected will be used solely for the purpose of providing the services agreed upon and will not be disclosed to third parties without the Client’s consent, unless required by law.
11. Amendments
SciComm Strategy reserves the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any amendments will be communicated to the Client, and work will not proceed under the new terms until accepted by the Client.
SciComm Strategy 