Australian Government Architecture
Search

​Intra-government Communications Network (ICON)

Direct link: ​​www.finance.gov.au/government/whole-government-information-and-communications-technology-services/intra-government-communications-network-icon​
Responsible agency: Department of Finance

The Intra-government Communications Network (ICON) provides an unmetered and cost-effective telecommunication service, connecting over 130 Australian Government agencies and service providers, through approximately 3800 point-to-point fibre optic links within the Australian Capital Territory. 

The network of fibre optic links allows information to be communicated securely, with a classification up to PROTECTED, without the need for additional encryption. ICON enables buildings occupied by a Commonwealth entity to connect to one of the following: 

  • a building occupied by a different Commonwealth entity 
  • a building occupied by the same Commonwealth entity 
  • a building occupied by a Commonwealth entity service provider (e.g. a data centre). 

ICON began in 1991 as a private communications network between the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade sites and has expanded to 150,000km of fibre across the capital. 

Connections are speed and protocol independent, meaning that entities can determine the technology that best meets their requirements. In effect, the data volume and speed transfer are limited only by the end-entities’ active equipment. 

Capabilities

This design is part of the following capability.
CAP53

Secure Data Exchange

CAP48

Network Security

CAP73

GovTech: government technology for the modern era

Policies

This design can be relevant to meeting the requirements of the following policies.
POL15

Secure Data Exchange policy (Position)

POL49

Network Security policy

Standards

This design can be useful in achieving the intent of the following standard(s).
The Australian Government ensures the safety and security of its operations to remain a trusted custodian of sensitive information. It will continue to maintain the safe, secure operation of government systems and technology through the effective implementation of the Information Security Manual,…
Was this information helpful?

Do not include any personal information. We are unable to respond to comments or feedback. If you would like a response, please email, or phone us. Our details are on the AGA contact page www.architecture.digital.gov.au/contact-us.