Disruptions happen from IT outages to extreme weather events, supply chain failures, and even public health crises. The difference between a brief hiccup and a major business disaster often comes down to preparation. ISO 22301, the international standard for Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS), helps ensure your organisation can keep operating when the unexpected strikes.
For many businesses, the question isn’t whether ISO 22301 is valuable, it’s how much it costs and what’s involved in getting certified. This guide explains the full spectrum of ISO 22301 certification costs in Australia, from initial assessments to ongoing compliance, so you can budget strategically and make informed investment decisions.
The cost of ISO 22301 certification depends on organisation size, complexity, sector risk level, and your chosen certification provider.
While these ranges may seem broad, they reflect variations in scope, readiness, and audit depth. For perspective, the cost of one unplanned multi-day outage could exceed your entire certification investment.
Certification fees are not one-size-fits-all. Differences arise due to:
Here’s what you can expect at each stage, with typical Australian pricing and examples:
A gap analysis compares your current processes to ISO 22301 requirements. ● Example: A logistics company discovers that while IT backup systems are robust, its supplier continuity plans are lacking. ● Value: Identifies the most cost-effective areas for improvement before formal audits.
Includes writing or updating: ● Continuity policies ● Recovery procedures for critical operations ● Crisis communication protocols ● Roles & responsibilities matrices ● Example: A food manufacturer develops site-specific recovery plans for two production facilities.
Covers software, simulation tools, and staff training. ● Example: An IT firm invests in virtual crisis simulation software to test remote work readiness. ● Cost control tip: Leverage existing software (e.g., project management or ERP systems) to manage continuity tasks where possible.
Verifies readiness before the external audit. ● In-house audits reduce direct certification costs but require trained internal auditors. ● Outsourced audits provide impartiality and expert feedback. By understanding this cost breakdown, you can strategically allocate resources and appreciate iso 22301 certification as a long-term investment in your organisation's resilience.
Accredited auditors review documentation, interview staff, and test BCMS processes. Example: A multi-site healthcare provider undergoes scenario testing for medical supply chain interruptions.
Annual audits ensure ongoing compliance. Includes updates to reflect new risks, such as emerging cyber threats or regulatory changes.
Typical Price Ranges by Business Size
Fixed-Fee vs. Custom Quotes
With over 15 years’ experience helping Australian organisations protect their operations, we offer:
Contact our expert team today to discuss how our ISO 22301 solutions can help secure your business future.
Typically between $5,000 and $50,000. Lower for small, single-site businesses; higher for large, complex, or high-risk operations.
Gap analysis, internal audits, external certification audit, surveillance audits, and review of documentation, training, and testing records.
Yes, annual surveillance audits, BCMS updates, refresher training, and periodic scenario testing to reflect evolving risks.
Yes. Many small businesses implement ISO 22301 for under $10,000, focusing on core operations and scaling up over time.
Absolutely. It can prevent significant revenue loss during a crisis, protect brand reputation, and may even lower insurance premiums.
On average, 3 – 6 months from gap analysis to final certification, depending on readiness and resource availability.
Yes, it aligns well with ISO 9001 (quality) and ISO 27001 (information security), allowing combined audits for cost efficiency.