Millions of devices are retired across the Australian Public Service (APS) every five years. The SDM Guide offers practical advice to support better reuse, donation and recycling practices to aid the reduction of electronic waste in ways that support the government’s environmental and digital inclusion goals.  

Supporting better outcomes across the device lifecycle 

The SDM Guide supports agencies to incorporate sustainability at every stage of the device lifecycle, from procurement to disposal. By planning ahead and embedding circular practices early, agencies can extend the life of government-owned devices, reduce electronic waste and contribute to the government’s circular economy goals in an ethical and secure manner. 

‘The APS is projected to replace around 3.8 million ICT devices over the next five years,’ explains Lucy Poole, acting CEO for the DTA. ‘But 50 to 70 percent of them have the potential for reuse.’ 

‘Carefully considering sustainable device management approaches means significant opportunities to reduce waste and deliver broader public value. ‘ 

This SDM Guide provides practical steps to help agencies: 

• embed sustainability early by planning for reuse, donation and recycling from the procurement stage
• assess reuse potential by identifying devices suitable for reuse or donation before opting for recycling
• ensure compliant and secure sanitisation practices to protect sensitive data
• manage risk and compliance by applying consistent, secure, and ethical practices aligned with Commonwealth obligations
• partner with purpose by engaging trusted organisations, who support environmental and social outcomes, for refurbishment and donation
• track and measure outcomes by utilising data to support circular practices and inform future improvements.  

Looking ahead 

The release of the SDM Guide marks an important step toward more sustainable ICT practices across government. By taking a whole-of-life approach to device management, agencies can contribute to Australia’s broader environmental targets, promote digital inclusion, and reduce digital waste in the public sector. 

To learn how your agency can make better use of retired ICT and support a more sustainable, digitally inclusive future, explore the Sustainable Device Management Guide. 

The Digital Transformation Agency is the Australian Government's adviser for the development, delivery, and monitoring of whole-of-government strategies, policies, and standards for digital and ICT investments, including ICT procurement.