IThe threat of cyberattacks is increasing across Australia. In response, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has defined the Essential Eight—a prioritised set of mitigation strategies designed to help organisations improve their cybersecurity posture and resist targeted attacks.

At AuditCo, we deliver Essential Eight assessments, consulting, and practical support to help you build resilience, meet compliance obligations, and protect your digital assets.

 

What Are the Essential Eight?

The Essential Eight are eight baseline mitigation strategies that dramatically reduce the risk of cyber intrusions. They’re grouped into three maturity levels and include:

1.     Application control

2.     Patch applications

3.     Configure Microsoft Office macro settings

4.     User application hardening

5.     Restrict administrative privileges

6.     Patch operating systems

7.     Multi-factor authentication (MFA)

8.     Regular backups

These controls were developed specifically for Australian government and private sector organisations, and they align with international cybersecurity frameworks.

 

Why Implement the Essential Eight?

The Essential Eight is:

· Mandated for many Australian Government agencies

· Recommended for all critical infrastructure and private sector organisations

· Recognised as an effective defence against ransomware and system compromise

Benefits include:

· Reduced risk of successful cyberattacks

· Improved security maturity

· Support for compliance with ISO 27001, DISP, and industry regulations

· Peace of mind for boards, customers, and insurers

 

AuditCo’s Essential Eight Services

We provide expert-led services that help organisations measure, plan, and improve their cyber maturity:

✅ Essential Eight Cyber Security Assessments

We assess your current maturity level, identify weaknesses, and deliver a practical roadmap to uplift your security.

✅ Consulting & Implementation Advisory

· Interpret the ACSC Essential Eight maturity model

· Prioritise and plan security improvements

· Align with ISO 27001, DISP or defence requirements

· Develop policies and controls to support compliance

✅ Ongoing Security Support

We offer ongoing virtual CISO and audit support to maintain your maturity posture over time.

 

Who Should Be Concerned with the Essential Eight?

The Essential Eight applies to:

· Federal and state agencies

· Critical infrastructure providers

· Defence industry contractors

· Financial and healthcare organisations

· Any business managing sensitive or regulated data

 

 

               

 

Let AuditCo Support Your Cybersecurity Maturity

AuditCo’s expert team understands both the technical detail and practical application of Essential Eight compliance. Whether you’re seeking certification alignment, risk reduction or policy development, we’re here to help.

 info@auditco.com.au
 www.auditco.com.au