Download our free Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy Template:

• Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy.doc file (Word Document)
• Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy.pdf file (PDF)

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Purpose of an Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy

An Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy outlines the framework and expectations related to IT and internet use. The policy aims to create a safe and healthy working environment by managing the risks associated with IT and internet usage, ensuring the well-being of employees, and minimizing potential hazards.

How to Use

This Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy template should be customised by a competent person, signed by a top-level manager (e.g. the director), and displayed in the workplace or provided by other means (e.g. website). It should also be communicated to new workers as part of their induction or onboarding process.

This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that need to be considered include ensuring that:

• Relevant legal requirements have been met,
• Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
• Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.

When to Use

This document should be displayed in a prominent area or uploaded to your website/ centralized document system. You should also use it during employee inductions, and you may wish to refresh your workers on the contents of the policy periodically as part of a safety meeting or refresher training.

Who Should Use

This document should be endorsed with the signature of the appropriate top-level manager (such as a director). It can be used by your Safety Advisor, Project Manager, or other Manager/s to communicate the requirements to workers (including new workers).

Legal Considerations

Generally, under the WHS legislation, there is no specific legal requirement to have or display an Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy. However, it is best practice. It can help meet general legal duties, including:

s(19)(3)a WHS Act – Duty to Provide a Safe Working Environment

Workers also have legal responsibilities, including:

• s(28) WHS Act – Duty of workers:
• Taking care of yourself
• Taking care of others
• Following procedure
• Following instruction

FAQ

What is an Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy?

An Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy is a set of guidelines and rules established by an organization to govern the appropriate use of information technology resources, including computers, networks, and the internet, by employees and other authorized users.

Why is an Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy important?

An Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policy is important because it helps protect the organization’s IT infrastructure, data, and intellectual property from security threats, misuse, and legal liabilities.

How are Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policies enforced?

Acceptable IT and Internet Use Policies are usually enforced through monitoring of IT activities, employee training and awareness programs, periodic reviews of compliance, and disciplinary measures for policy violations.

Did you know?

The first major implementation of an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) for the internet occurred in the early 1990s with the establishment of AARNet (Australian Academic and Research Network). AARNet’s AUP was pivotal in shaping the responsible use of the internet within Australia’s academic and research communities, setting standards for ethical behavior and information sharing. This early adoption of internet governance principles in Australia laid the foundation for the development of broader AUPs across various sectors, contributing to the country’s commitment to fostering a safe and secure online environment.

Article Sources and Further Reading

• The Complete Guide to WHS Policies and Procedures in Australia (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/guide-to-whs-policies-and-procedures/>
• What is a WHSMS (Work Health and Safety Management System)? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-whsms/>
• Work Health and Safety Policy (Safe Work NSW) <https://www.nsw.gov.au/enterprise-investment-trade/policy/work-health-and-safety>