Cost of DISP membership
Implementation costs vary greatly with the level you need and how compliant you already are. Lodging an application is free. The gap analysis shows exactly where your costs will fall.
DISP application process
From first meeting to membership granted
Our process for implementing DISP's requirements is thorough and systematic, with clear objectives, fixed pricing and predictable timelines at every step.
Sequence
- Step 1
- Determine business requirements
- Step 2
- Select your DISP level
- Step 3
- Determine the capability gap
- Step 4
- Implement changes
- Step 5
- Apply
- Step 6
- Membership granted
Step by step
- Step 01
Determine business requirements
An obligation-free meeting to confirm DISP suits your business.
We discuss your business needs and determine whether DISP is suitable.
- Step 02
Select your DISP level
Decide the level you need in each of the four domains.
The level is set per domain, so you only take on the requirements your work needs.
- Step 03
Determine the capability gap
We audit your governance, personnel, physical and cyber security.
The gap analysis tests your existing systems and processes against your chosen level, and its depth grows with the level.
- Step 04
Implement changes
Our action plan closes the gap to the level you need.
We write your governance documentation, train your CSO and SO, and guide your cyber and physical changes, with weekly or fortnightly progress meetings.
- Step 05
Apply
We prepare and lodge your application with Defence.
We prepare your SO and CSO for interview and respond to Defence's recommendations.
- Step 06
Membership granted
Ongoing support to keep your membership in good standing.
Our support team helps you maintain your membership, starting with the annual maintenance program we develop for you.
A predictable project timeline
Every project has clear objectives, fixed pricing and a predictable timeline. Weekly or fortnightly progress meetings keep the application on track and make sure your CSO and SO are well trained before you apply.
For a clear breakdown of timelines for your level, book a short, obligation-free consult. [Awaiting typical timeframes per level from the business.]
Before you lodge
Before you lodge your application with Defence, make sure you have properly implemented DISP's requirements for:
- Governance documentation
- Personnel security
- ICT and cyber security
- Physical security
Why lodging early is costly
Lodging before your systems and practices are properly audited can cost you time and missed contracts, and can lead Defence to reject the application. We lodge applications daily, so your process stays smooth and efficient.
Lodgement can begin with obtaining a DISP email address for communication with Defence about your application.
Can you do it yourself?
Yes. Defence allows companies to go through the process without external advice. Many organisations decide the risks of that approach are unacceptable, and use a specialist to streamline the application and reduce risk.
What each level includes
Each level builds on the one before it. Higher levels adjust every deliverable to stricter requirements and add their own.
- Included
- Partly
- Not included
DISP application process
Questions
How long does it take?
[Awaiting typical timeframes per level from the business.] Every project has a predictable timeline agreed up front, with weekly or fortnightly progress meetings.
Can we apply without a consultant?
Yes. Defence allows companies to apply without external advice. Many organisations choose not to, because lodging before requirements are properly in place can cost time and contracts and can lead to a rejected application.
Which DISP level do I need?
In our experience, Entry Level is sufficient for most companies in the supply chain. Level 1 suits companies that want to self-sponsor security clearances, and Levels 2 and 3 suit organisations working on classified projects. We confirm the right level in your initial consult.
How does a consultant help?
Defence does not require you to use a consultant, but many companies do, to streamline the application and reduce risk. A specialist brings:
- Savings on DISP implementation, particularly IT
- Compliant DISP documentation
- CSO and SO training
- Help preparing and lodging the application
Lodging a DISP application is free, but consultancy can save executive time, reduce risk and prevent lengthy recommendations from Defence.
More guides
Book a complimentary initial consult
We will confirm whether DISP suits your business and which level you need, with no obligation.