Definition
The Australian Government has adopted the US Government's National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) definition of cloud.
Cloud computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.
Purpose
A mature capability in cloud computing enables Commonwealth entities to efficiently deliver information technology services online in a secure and scalable manner.
Cloud computing is realised through:
- the storage and handling of sensitive information, in the cloud, in a manner that maintains public trust
- scalable and cost-effective solutions that can be increased or decreased in line with demand.
Objectives
The objectives of this content are to:
- maximise uptake of cloud computing in government while embedding risk-based decision-making for cloud security
- identify, consolidate, and standardise cloud computing services to generate faster delivery, continuous improvement cycles, and broad access to services
- identify, or establish and implement, consistent Standards or Designs for cloud computing
- maximise reuse of cloud computing services across government
- highlight whole-of-government purchasing arrangements for cloud computing services
- consider the capability as complementary to other related capabilities, including Cloud Financial Operations, Hosting, Information Asset Management, and Information Asset Security.
Whole-of-government applicability
The Secure cloud strategy has been developed to guide entities through their adoption of cloud. It lays the foundations for sustainable change, seizing opportunities to reduce duplication, enhance collaboration, improve responsiveness and increase innovation across the Australian Public Service (APS).
The Data and digital government strategy sets a vision for 2030 to deliver simple, secure and connected public services for all people and business, through world class data and digital capabilities.
The capability of Cloud Computing will be key to the Strategy's mission of 'Simple and seamless services'. Under this mission, the outcome to 'deploy scalable and secure architecture' guides the APS to:
- develop interoperable platforms and use standards to unlock opportunities for data sharing, integration, collaboration and reuse cross the APS
- develop flexible and resilient systems and services, supported through suitable adoption of cloud infrastructure.
The Whole-of-government cloud computing policy will come into effect on 1 July 2026.
Agencies should begin preparing for its implementation.
Read the new policy on digital.gov.au.