What is an IRAP-assessed GRC platform?
An IRAP-assessed GRC platform is software that has been configured to meet the Australian Government standard called the Information Security Registered Assessor Program (IRAP).
It is crucial for organizations to have a robust information security framework in place to protect against cyber threats and minimize the risks associated with data breaches. IRAP assessors play a crucial role in evaluating an organization's security requirements and providing advisory services to help them attain the necessary certifications and compliance. In this article, we will explore the importance of IRAP-assessed GRC and how it helps organizations enhance their security posture and mitigate security risks.
The benefits of an IRAP-assessed GRC platform
An IRAP-assessed GRC platform provides numerous benefits for government departments and agencies in the realm of cybersecurity, reputation building, compliance management, risk mitigation, and opportunity expansion.
First and foremost, an IRAP-assessed GRC platform helps organizations build their reputation by demonstrating a robust information security framework. With cyber threats and security breaches on the rise, customers and stakeholders are increasingly concerned about the safety of their data. By having an IRAP-assessed GRC platform in place, organizations can assure their clients that they have implemented adequate security measures, leading to increased trust and confidence.
Furthermore, an IRAP-assessed GRC platform ensures that organizations are able to effectively manage compliance requirements. With a constantly evolving regulatory framework, it can be challenging for organizations to stay updated and compliant with all the necessary rules and standards. IRAP-assessed GRC software provides guidance and expertise to help organizations understand and meet their compliance obligations, avoiding heavy fines and reputational damage.
In addition, an IRAP-assessed GRC platform helps mitigate risks by identifying potential security risks and vulnerabilities. It conducts thorough security risk assessments and provides recommendations to strengthen security posture and implement appropriate controls. This proactive approach minimizes the chances of security breaches and mitigates the impact of any potential incidents.
Moreover, IRAP-assessed GRC software expands opportunities for organizations. Many government agencies and private sector organizations require suppliers and partners to have an IRAP-assessed GRC platform. By obtaining an IRAP assessment, organizations gain a competitive advantage and increase their eligibility for contracts and partnerships.
How long does an IRAP assessment take?
The duration of an IRAP assessment can vary depending on the scope and complexity of the organization's systems and processes being assessed. Due to the unique nature of each organization's security posture and technological environment, it is difficult to provide an exact timeframe for an IRAP assessment. However, a typical assessment can range from a few weeks to several months.
The duration of an IRAP assessment is determined by factors such as the size of the organization, the number of systems and processes involved, and the level of documentation and evidence required. Additionally, the availability of key stakeholders and the responsiveness of the organization in providing the necessary information can also impact the assessment timeline.
It is important to note that the duration of an IRAP assessment is not solely determined by the IRAP assessors, but also relies on the cooperation and engagement of the organization being assessed. The assessors work closely with the organization's personnel to thoroughly review and evaluate their security controls, policies, and procedures.
In conclusion, the duration of an IRAP assessment is influenced by the scope and complexity of the organization's systems and processes. While each assessment is unique, a typical assessment can range from a few weeks to several months, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the organization's security posture.
What are the different IRAP levels?
IRAP assessments are conducted to assess the implementation and effectiveness of an organization's security controls against the Australian government's security requirements.
Organizations are assessed according to the sensitivity level of the information their ICT systems support. IRAP defines the following security classification levels:
- Official: This level is for information that does not require special handling and is generally for low-sensitivity government data. Basic security measures are implemented to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.
- Official: Sensitive: This level applies to information that requires a higher degree of protection as it may cause limited damage if compromised. It often includes sensitive government and business information requiring controlled access and encryption measures.
- Protected: This level pertains to information where unauthorized access, disclosure, or compromise could cause significant damage to the government, organizations, or individuals. It requires robust security controls, including advanced encryption, monitoring, and access management.
- Secret: This level is for information that, if compromised, could cause serious damage to national security, the government, or critical infrastructure. Rigorous security protocols, including multi-layered defence strategies, are mandated.
- Top secret: The highest level of classification, where compromise could result in exceptionally grave damage to national security. Strict and comprehensive security measures are essential, with no margin for error in safeguarding this data.
The IRAP levels provide a clear framework for assessing an organization's security controls against the Australian government's security requirements and enable organizations to demonstrate their compliance with the appropriate classification levels in Gateway/Fedlink/CDS audits and network/system reviews.
What's available as a turnkey IRAP-assessed GRC solution?
When it comes to a turn-key IRAP-assessed GRC solution, 6clicks is the leading provider in Australia.
6clicks turn-key solution encompasses end-to-end assistance throughout the entire certification process. This includes conducting thorough posture assessments to identify any security gaps and vulnerabilities, as well as developing tailored recommendations to address these issues effectively.
In addition to certification assistance, 6clicks also provides internal audit services to ensure ongoing compliance with IRAP requirements. Their team of experienced assessors conducts detailed audits to assess the effectiveness of existing security controls and make necessary improvements.
Furthermore, 6clicks offers tailored advisory services to guide organizations in developing and implementing robust information security frameworks. Their experts work closely with clients to understand their unique requirements and develop customized strategies to mitigate security risks effectively.
With 6clicks' turn-key IRAP-assessed solution, organizations can have peace of mind knowing that they are not only meeting the certification requirements but also enhancing their overall security posture. Whether it be certification assistance, posture assessments, internal audits, or tailored advisory services, 6clicks has the expertise and experience to deliver comprehensive solutions for organizations seeking robust cybersecurity.
Where is the Australian Government IRAP-assessed GRC platform hosted?
The IRAP-assessed GRC solution offered by 6clicks can be hosted in multiple environments, providing organizations with flexibility and options to suit their specific needs.
One hosting option available is cloud hosting, where the GRC solution is hosted on secure and reliable cloud infrastructure. This option allows for scalable and accessible solutions, with the ability to easily adjust resources as needed. Organizations can leverage the benefits of cloud technology, such as high availability, redundancy, and automatic backups, ensuring the continuous availability and integrity of the GRC solution.
Alternatively, organizations can opt for on-premise hosting, where the GRC solution is hosted within the organization's own infrastructure. This option provides organizations with complete control over their data and allows them to comply with any specific security requirements or policies they may have in place.
When considering the hosting environment, it is important to ensure that the chosen option aligns with relevant security and compliance regulations. For example, organizations operating within the Australian government may have specific requirements in terms of hosting. The 6clicks IRAP-assessed GRC solution can be hosted in accordance with these requirements, providing a secure and compliant hosting environment.
What is 6clicks for Australian Government?
6clicks for Australian Government is a comprehensive Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) solution designed specifically for government agencies and departments. This cutting-edge platform offers a range of features and benefits tailored to meet the unique needs of the public sector.
One of the standout features of 6clicks for Australian Government is its certification through the Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP). This certification ensures that the platform has been thoroughly assessed and meets the stringent security requirements outlined in the Information Security Manual (ISM). In fact, 6clicks has been assessed at both the Official:Sensitive (OS) and Protected (P) levels, making it suitable for handling sensitive government information.
The IRAP assessment guarantees that 6clicks provides a robust and secure GRC solution for government agencies, giving them the confidence and peace of mind they need when managing their risk and compliance obligations. By leveraging this powerful platform, government agencies can streamline their GRC processes, improve their security posture, and meet their compliance requirements efficiently and effectively.
With 6clicks for Australian Government, agencies can benefit from intuitive features, such as risk assessments, compliance management, incident management, policy management, a document library, and reporting capabilities. These features provide the tools and insights needed to effectively manage and mitigate risk, ensure compliance with relevant regulations, and make informed decisions to protect sensitive government data.
In conclusion, 6clicks for Australian Government is a highly secure and comprehensive GRC solution that has been assessed at the Official:Sensitive and Protected levels through IRAP. With its user-friendly features and robust security measures, this platform is an invaluable asset for government agencies seeking to enhance their risk and compliance practices.
Written by Andrew Robinson
Andrew started his career in the startup world and went on to perform in cyber and information security advisory roles for the Australian Federal Government and several Victorian Government entities. Andrew has a Masters in Policing, Intelligence and Counter-Terrorism (PICT) specialising in Cyber Security and holds IRAP, ISO 27001 LA, CISSP, CISM and SCF certifications.
