Data and Digital Ministers agreed the National Device Reuse Principles at their meeting on 4 September 2026. The principles provide a shared framework to help Australian governments safely reuse suitable government ICT devices.
They support digital inclusion, reduce electronic waste, strengthen circular economy outcomes and maximise the value of public investment by giving surplus devices a second life.
The principles apply to government ICT devices that are no longer needed and may be suitable for donation, transfer or another approved reuse pathway. They provide nationally consistent direction while allowing jurisdictions to align implementation with relevant policy, legislative and operational requirements.
The principles do not override existing procurement, cybersecurity, privacy, records management or asset disposal obligations.
The framework is built around seven principles:
- prioritise digital inclusion outcomes
- consider reuse early
- align with existing frameworks
- manage security, records and risk
- work through appropriate partners
- support quality and usable second-life pathways
- review and improve over time.
Together, the principles support safe, sustainable and practical reuse, helping governments improve access to technology for people experiencing digital exclusion while increasing the social, environmental and economic value of public sector ICT investments.
