Australia’s Defence budget is rapidly growing. 📈
It has increased from $55.7 billion in 2024 to 2025 to $58.99 billion in 2025 to 2026, and is projected to reach $74 billion by 2030. With more than $18 billion in new spending, businesses certified under the Defence Industry Security Programme (DISP) are best positioned to secure these valuable contracts. DISP certification is not just a requirement, it’s your essential to participating in Australia’s expanding and security-focused Defence market.
What is DISP?
The Defence Industry Security Programme (DISP) ensures that organisations involved in Defence projects meet critical security standards.
It is administered by the Defence Industry Security Office (DISO) and aligns closely with Australia’s broader Defence strategy, particularly in response to increasing geopolitical tensions.
DISP covers four key areas:
- Personnel Security – Ensuring staff have the appropriate clearances
- Physical Security – Protecting your facilities and sensitive areas
- Information and cyber security – Safeguarding data and systems
- Security Governance – Establishing robust oversight and accountability processes
Membership levels range from Entry Level to Level 3. Each level provides access to higher-value Defence opportunities and comes with more rigorous requirements.
Applying for DISP: What You Need to Know
The DISP application process is free through the Australian Government and can be accessed via the official application page. However, achieving compliance requires deliberate and structured preparation.
To prepare:
- Assessment: Review your current security posture across personnel, facilities, ICT systems and governance
- Leadership Appointment: Nominate a Chief Security Officer (CSO) and Security Officer (SO)
- Implementation: Upgrade security processes, formalise protocols, train staff, and align ICT systems with frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001
- Application Submission: Apply through the DISP Member Portal. Processing usually takes between four and eight months depending on your targeted membership level
Without experienced guidance, organisations often underestimate the time, expertise and effort required. This can lead to costly delays or missed contract opportunities.
DISP and cyber security
Cyber security is central to DISP compliance. Defence projects often involve classified or sensitive data, which must be protected at all times.
To comply, organisations must:
- Adopt trusted frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001 or the ACSC Essential Eight
- Maintain secure access control and strong encryption
- Conduct regular cyber security assessments and penetration testing
- Deliver staff training in secure digital practices
- Establish clear processes for reporting and responding to incidents
Maintaining DISP certification also involves routine audits, document updates and a consistent focus on improving your security posture.
Secure-ISS: Your DISP Certification Partner
Secure-ISS is an ISO 27001-certified consultancy with deep experience across the Aussie Defence sector. We help simplify the path to DISP certification and ensure your organisation is well-prepared for every stage.
DISP Preparedness Review
We assess your organisation’s current readiness, highlight gaps, and provide a prioritised plan for meeting DISP requirements.
DISP Activation Services
We support your application process end-to-end, including:
- CSO and SO role support and training
- Development of required documentation
- Implementation of systems and controls
- Guidance through the submission and Defence engagement process
Ongoing DISP Compliance
Our scheduled compliance services include regular security reviews, training delivery, documentation maintenance and audit preparation.
Getting Started
The Defence industry moves quickly. Waiting until tenders are announced is often too late. Begin your DISP journey now with us to be ready when opportunities arise.
Contact us via disp@secure-iss.com or 1300 769 460 for a relaxed, no-obligation DISP Readiness chat.
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