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How we manage information

We apply 4 basic principles to how we manage information.

Last updated 10 February 2025

Lifespan model

Our Information Management lifespan model is a representation of the functions and activities involved in managing our information in the ATO over time. Our models are an important element of our information architecture and provides a foundation for defining and analysing our information management activities.

This model presents the lifespan of information from source and create through to archive and dispose. It indicates the governance and operational elements for the management of information and the enabling services we provide in partnership with our client-facing activities.

The 4 elements of the Lifespan model are:

Figure 1 – The ATO Information Lifecycle Management model

Flowchart with 5 boxes. The first box Information Governance Framework -We manage information assets throughout the lifecycle.
4 boxes underneath: Source and create, Store and manage, use and share, Archive and dispose. 4 more arrows point down, connecting these boxes with a box Information Asset Management CEI and Data -our principles guide our activities involving information assets.

Source and create

We plan how we source and create information to ensure we build in quality and appropriate techniques for obtaining and storing the information we need to do our jobs.

We receive data from clients and other stakeholders, search and find information we need from a range of sources or create new information from our analysis or business activities.

We apply different management efforts depending on the value of information.

Store and manage

We apply contemporary practices aligning with the National Archives’ Information Management Standard and the NAA Building trust in the public record policy to store and manage our information assets.

Our information management capabilities are integrated into business systems, activities, and business processes to enable everyone in the ATO to comply with legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures. Our information management professionals work with business areas to identify and resolve issues, provide advice and access to resources.

We implement our strategy to manage our information and establish governance practices ensuring we achieve the transparency and accountability expected of us by the government and community.

Use and share

We apply contemporary management practices and leading technology to effectively use the information we acquire. We make decisions based on evidence we can rely on and protect the information we are entrusted with. We leverage technology to arrange our information more logically and to support the work of others.

We share information with our clients and stakeholders as necessary to meet our objectives while maintaining the confidentiality of their information. We publish and present information in a professional manner. Our information is easily understood, accessible and consumed by a broad audience, including people with accessibility challenges.

Archive and dispose

We archive information that is no longer required for business purposes and systematically destroy information that has met its business and legal retention.

 

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