Answered By: Anne M
Last Updated: Oct 20, 2025     Views: 121

Why can't I open the Australian Standard that I downloaded to my computer?

If you're having difficulties opening a downloaded standard, the Australian Standards Subject Guide offers helpful instructions and troubleshooting support.

If you need further support, here are some steps that may assist to resolve this issue:

 

1. Check Your Software

Make sure that Adobe Acrobat Reader is installed on your device - it's required to open downloaded standards. This software is freely available at http://get.adobe.com/reader/.

 

2. Open the File Correctly

Instead of opening the file directly from your browser:

  1. Go to your device's downloads folder.
  2. Find the PDF file.
  3. Right-click the file, choose Open with, then select Adobe Acrobat Reader

 

3. Disable GOSP in Adobe Acrobat Reader

To access your downloaded standard, you will need to disable the Global Object Security Policy (GOSP).  This is safe to do and won't harm your computer.

How to Disable GOSP in Adobe Acrobat Reader

Step 1: Press CTRL + K to open Preferences or click Menu > Preferences.

Step 2: Select JavaScript, then UNCHECK Enable global object security policy, click OK.

 

Please click on the following link if you wish to learn more about Digital Rights Management and the Global Object Security Policy and why it needs to be disabled: Digital rights management (DRM)

 

Need more help?

If you need further assistance, the TAFE Queensland Library Network is here to help:

Can't find the answer?: Ask us

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