Document Retention Policy

This Document Retention Policy is a workplace policy to set policies and procedures for when and how documents should be retained or destroyed.

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Last updated October 24, 2025

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Suitable for Australia

Document Retention Policy

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What is a document retention policy?

A document retention policy is a set of rules that outlines how long an organisation keeps documents and when they should be destroyed or archived.
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When should you use a document retention policy?

You should use a document retention policy whenever your organisation needs to manage records, comply with legal requirements, or handle sensitive information responsibly.
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What should be in a document retention policy?

A document retention policy should include retention periods, destruction procedures, storage requirements, roles and responsibilities, and steps to follow during litigation.
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Frequently asked questions

Who is responsible for enforcing the policy?

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How does this policy help with legal compliance?

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Does the policy cover digital and physical documents?

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What are the risks of not following the policy?

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How often should the policy be reviewed or updated?

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What happens if litigation is pending or ongoing?

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What steps are required to implement this policy?

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View Sample Document Retention Policy

Document Retention Policy
risk level indicator at Low level

The Legal Risk Score of a Document Retention Policy Template is Low

Our legal team have marked this document as low risk considering:

  • There is a potential risk that individuals may inadvertently fail to follow the strict guidelines for document retention and destruction, leading to legal repercussions or operational disruptions.
  • The document outlines specific roles and responsibilities, including the handling of sensitive information, which could lead to risks associated with mismanagement or unauthorized access if not properly monitored.
  • The retention periods and procedures outlined may become outdated due to changes in legislation or regulatory requirements, potentially putting the organization at risk of non-compliance.

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