The Essential Eight Framework – Why Your HR Team Should Care About Cybersecurity

In today’s interconnected digital landscape, the Human Resources department plays a far more strategic role than ever before. No longer confined to traditional administrative duties, HR now stands as a critical line of defence against cyber threats — championing data protection, promoting secure practices, and cultivating a culture of cybersecurity awareness across the organisation. 

With cyberattacks on the rise in recent years, the responsibility of safeguarding critical business data has become a top priority — and HR is uniquely positioned to lead the charge. 

In this guide, we’ll delve into the Essential Eight cybersecurity framework, share actionable best practices and recommendations, as well as examine both the benefits and potential challenges of HR’s involvement in cybersecurity strategy. But first, what is…

The Role of HR in Cybersecurity

HR departments are custodians of a vast array of sensitive personal data — from tax file numbers and health records to visa documentation — making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. This treasure trove of information demands robust protection.  

While cybersecurity is often viewed as the sole domain of IT, the reality is that HR must be an active partner in safeguarding both employee and organisational data.

Why Should HR Care? 

• Prime Target: The HR department manages sensitive information, making it a direct target for cybercriminals seeking identity data, banking information, and access to payroll systems. 

• Access Control: Your HR team oversees the onboarding and offboarding of employees. Properly managing access rights is crucial to prevent unauthorised access to internal systems. 

• Compliance: Violating the Privacy Act 1988 & Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) can lead to regulatory penalties, loss of sensitive data, damage to reputation, and financial liabilities.

The Essential Eight

The Essential Eight is a set of eight mitigation strategies developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) to help organisations defend against cybersecurity threats, including ransomware, phishing, and internal breaches.  

Each strategy is scalable through three maturity levels, enabling businesses to tailor protection according to their risk profile.

The Eight Strategies

1. Application Control: Prevent unauthorised programs from executing by only allowing approved software.

2. Patch Applications: Regularly update software to fix vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.

3. Configure Microsoft Office Macros: Disable or restrict the use of macros to prevent malicious code execution.

4. User Application Hardening: Disable features like Flash, ads, and Java in web browsers that attackers exploit.

5. Restrict Administrative Privileges: Only provide elevated access to users who need it for their role. 

6. Patch Operating Systems: Keep OS software up to date to close known security loopholes. 

7. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Require an extra verification step beyond a password. 

8. Daily Backups: Back up data regularly and ensure you can restore it quickly in case of attack. 

Best Practices for HR Teams

• Use Secure HR Platforms: Choose systems that offer encryption, access logging, MFA, and compliance certifications (ISO 27001, SOC 2). Prioritise platforms that offer Australian-based data storage for local compliance. 

• Cybersecurity Training: Provide tailored training that addresses HR-specific threats such as spear phishing, social engineering, and insider threats. Include practical exercises and simulations. 

• Access Audits: Conduct regular audits of user access rights. Remove dormant accounts, flag anomalies, and ensure role-based access is strictly enforced. 

• Secure Employee Lifecycle: Automate the process for provisioning and deprovisioning user accounts, issuing laptops, and revoking access to all systems at the end of employment. 

• Limit Data Sharing: Set clear internal guidelines on handling sensitive data. Use encrypted document transfer solutions rather than spreadsheets or unprotected email attachments. 

• Mandate MFA: Require multi-factor authentication for all systems, including payroll, HRIS, recruitment tools, and internal communication apps. 

• Establish a Joint HR-IT Task Force: Foster collaboration between HR and IT. Regular syncs can identify new risks, update procedures, and improve awareness of legal changes. 

• Regular Policy Reviews: Review and update data security policies annually or whenever there’s a major change in technology, regulation, or risk landscape. 

If this all seems a little too overwhelming, you can always outsource your HR function to a reliable external HR partner. This is especially valuable when you’re expanding overseas and require oversight on local laws and regulations.

Advantages & Disadvantages of HR in Cybersecurity

Advantages: 

• Stronger Data Protection: Applying the Essential Eight reduces the attack surface and protects highly sensitive HR data.

• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Demonstrates good faith efforts to secure data under the Privacy Act and Fair Work Act, reducing liability in case of data breaches or audits.

• Enhanced Trust & Brand Integrity: A proactive approach to cybersecurity reassures both internal and external stakeholders, improving employee retention and attracting data-conscious clients. 

• Operational Continuity: Daily backups and system patching reduce downtime and enable business continuity in the event of cyberattacks. 

• Improved Incident Response: Regular auditing, MFA, and access controls help HR teams detect suspicious activity early and respond swiftly to contain incidents. 

• Competitive Advantage: Businesses showcasing strong cybersecurity practices gain an edge in the market, especially when serving enterprise clients or public sector entities. 

Disadvantages: 

• Resource Intensive: Implementing and maintaining robust cybersecurity measures can be resource-intensive, requiring significant time and financial investment. 

• Complexity: Managing cybersecurity involves complex processes and technologies that may require specialized knowledge and skills. 

• Potential for Human Error: Despite training and best practices, human error remains a significant risk factor in cybersecurity. 

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue — it’s a shared responsibility across every department, especially HR. The Essential Eight offers a practical, adaptable framework that can protect your business from threats while ensuring regulatory compliance and operational trust.  

By integrating cybersecurity into your HR practices, your business can build a better shield against potential breaches and foster a culture of vigilance and security. 

Protect your people. Protect your business. Make HR cybersecurity a priority.