Australia's IRAP for UK Organisations Entering Australia
The Benefits of Being IRAP Assessed
The Australian Government is actively addressing the growing threat of cyber exploitation. To ensure the security of government ICT systems, they have developed the Australian Government Information Security Manual (ISM). This comprehensive manual serves as a cyber security framework that can also be adopted by organisations doing business in Australia.
The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) is the author and ‘owner’ of the Australian Government Information Security Manual (ISM) and the manual is the standard which governs the security of Australian Government ICT systems, and has been widely adopted as a cyber security framework that Australian organisations can apply, using the Government’s own risk management framework, to protect their systems and data from cyber threats.
As part of amplifying this commitment across government and industry, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has developed the Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP). IRAP is a government-led program that provides a framework for assessing the implementation and effectiveness of an organisation’s cyber security controls against the Australian Government’s ISM.
IRAP assessments are conducted by independent assessors who are accredited by the ACSC. The assessors will review the organisation’s security controls and documentation to assess their effectiveness in meeting the Australian Government’s security requirements. The assessors will then produce a report that identifies any security weaknesses and makes recommendations for improvement.
IRAP assessments can be a valuable tool for organisations that are looking to improve their cyber security posture. By identifying and addressing security weaknesses, organisations can reduce their risk of a data breach and protect their sensitive data.
Benefits of Being IRAP Assessed for UK Organisations Looking to Enter Australia:
There are a number of benefits for UK organisations looking to enter Australia that can be gained by being IRAP assessed. These benefits include:
- Increased customer confidence: IRAP assessments demonstrate to potential customers and partners that the organisation has a strong commitment to cyber security. This can be important in building trust and confidence, especially in industries where sensitive data is handled.
- Meeting regulatory requirements: IRAP assessments can help organisations to meet regulatory requirements, such as the Australian Government Information Security Manual (ISM). This can be important for organisations that do business with the Australian government or that handle sensitive data.
- Improved cyber security posture: IRAP assessments can help organisations to identify and address security weaknesses, which can help to reduce their risk of a data breach. This can be important for any organisation, but it is especially important for organizations that handle sensitive data or that do business with the Australian government.
- Gaining a competitive edge: Being IRAP assessed can give organizations a competitive edge over their competitors. This is because IRAP assessments demonstrate to potential customers and partners that the organisation has a strong commitment to cyber security.
Sekuro Gateway Australia
Our Gateway Australia program provides a comprehensive range of services to help businesses navigate and meet Australia’s unique compliance legislation.
With our expertise and industry knowledge, we can assist you in ensuring your company operates within the legal framework. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your compliance practices!
How to Get IRAP Assessed:
To get IRAP assessed, organisations must first contact an accredited IRAP assessor like Sekuro. The assessor will then work with the organisation to assess its security controls and documentation. The assessor will then produce a report that identifies any security weaknesses and makes recommendations for improvement.
The cost of an IRAP assessment varies depending on the size and complexity of the organisation. However, the cost is typically a small investment that can yield significant benefits.
IRAP - Is it worth it?
IRAP assessments are an invaluable valuable asset for UK organisations looking to do government and industry business in Australia. By demonstrating a strong commitment to cyber security and meeting regulatory requirements, organisations can build trust and confidence, improve their cyber security posture, and gain a competitive edge.
Sekuro IRAP Services
The Infosec Registered Assessor Program (IRAP) is an initiative by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) to provide high quality Information and Communications Technology (ICT) security assessment services to Australian Government and Industry.
Sekuro’s IRAP Assessors are endorsed by the ASD, who ensure suitably-qualified cyber security professionals can assist in navigating the Australian Government’s Information Security Manual (ISM), Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) and other Australian Government Guidance.
Why engage Sekuro IRAP Services:
- Sekuro Assessors conduct independent IRAP assessments up to the SECRET classification as defined in the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF).
- Sekuro Assessors can be engaged on a retainer service to provide ongoing consultancy and assessment services to improve IRAP compliance and overall maturity on a continuing basis. In this instance, Sekuro looks after the overall IRAP compliance program on your behalf and provides an end-to-end “turnkey” solution.
- Demonstrated ability to advise on your organisation’s risk posture regarding the latest control requirements stipulated within the most recent ISM Version.
- Sekuro Assessors provide ongoing support and assist with continuous improvement in aligning to the most recent ISM Version.
- Sekuro Assessors support you in improving their cyber security maturity in an evolving threat landscape.
- Our Assessors inform you on the latest updates and guidance from the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC).
How do IRAP Assessors Assist and Guide?
Sekuro’s IRAP Assessors assist in securing your systems and data by independently assessing your cyber security posture, identifying security risks and suggesting mitigation measures and then perform an IRAP assessment against the Australian Government’s Information Security Manual (ISM).
Our Assessors clearly define the scope of work and provide unbiased and independent outcomes for your environment. Upon the completion of an IRAP Assessment, Sekuro will provide you with the following:
- Cloud Security Controls Matrix which details the implementation status of controls from the Information Security Manual.
- Cloud Security Assessment report.
- An IRAP Letter of completion.
Sekuro’s IRAP Assessors do not endorse, accredit, certify or register systems on behalf of the ASD.
Sekuro IRAP Assessors
Sekuro’s IRAP Assessors have unique skill sets and have provided guidance for defence, Federal Government, telecommunications, multi-national entities and various cloud service providers.
Our Assessors meet the prerequisites required to be an IRAP Assessor. This includes:
- Extensive ISM experience
- NV1 clearance or above
- Industry recognised certifications
Liaising with ACSC
We commonly liaise with agencies and/or ACSC on behalf of our clients to:
- Advise ACSC on customers’ certification requirements.
- Discuss assessment report findings, provide details on specific services recommended for certification.
- Discuss the value these services will bring to the Australian Government.
All that we do helps make the entire process easier for our customers.