Lyla Lindsey
If you're planning to work in the security industry in Australia, you'll need to apply for a security licence. The type of licence you'll require will depend on the state in which you'll be working and the activities you'll be carrying out. For example, in Western Australia, you'll need to hold the appropriate agent or non-agent licences, whereas in NSW, you'll need to hold a Class 1 or Class 2 security operative licence. In South Australia, you'll need a security agent's licence, and in the Australian Capital Territory, you'll need a security employee licence. The application process varies depending on the state, but you'll generally need to complete an online or paper application form and provide supporting documentation, including proof of identity and, in some cases, evidence of training or qualifications.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application Process | Online or in-person |
| Requirements | Criminal history check, fingerprints, proof of identity, proof of age, proof of training, photographs |
| Time Taken | 4-6 weeks |
| Validity | 1 year (for temporary licences) |
| Payment Methods | Cash, cheques, money orders, EFTPOS, credit card |
| Jurisdiction | Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland |
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What You'll Learn
Criminal history check
To apply for a security licence in Australia, you will need to pass a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check, also known as a National Police Certificate (NPC) or police check. This is a prerequisite for obtaining a security licence and is valid in all states and territories of Australia.
The criminal history check is used to determine if any past criminal records make you unsuitable for a security role. The legislation in different states and territories across Australia stipulates criminal offences that make one unfit to obtain a security licence. Some examples of criminal offences that may prevent a person from getting a security licence include sexual offences, which can permanently block an applicant from obtaining a licence.
The process for obtaining a criminal history check can be completed online in a few minutes. 70% of results are dispatched within 24 hours, with most digital certificates arriving in your inbox within a few days. Fingerprint checks, however, can take at least 15 working days.
The cost of an NPC application is $56, and $113 if fingerprints are required. If you live in the ACT and are requesting fingerprints for a security licence, you can go to the Access Canberra website and complete the application form. If you reside outside of Canberra, you should contact your local police station for a fingerprint appointment.
In addition to the criminal history check, you may also need to provide other documentation, such as proof of identity, evidence of training, and a letter of intent from a proposed employer.
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Fingerprints
Western Australia
In Western Australia, fingerprinting is mandated by Section 48 of the Security and Related Activities (Control) Act 1996. Applicants who have not previously provided their fingerprints to Licensing Services (Security) are required to do so. Refusal to provide fingerprints disqualifies individuals from holding a security licence in the state. Fingerprints can be taken at the Licensing Services (Security) office in Cannington, or for those residing outside a 50km radius of the General Post Office in Perth, the nearest police station is an alternative option. A fee is associated with having your fingerprints taken.
New South Wales
The New South Wales Police Force, through the Security Licensing & Enforcement Directorate (SLED), oversees the security licence application process. While there is no explicit mention of fingerprinting requirements, applicants may be instructed to visit a Service NSW Centre for a photo to be taken for their security licence card. This suggests that fingerprinting could be part of the process, but specific confirmation is not provided.
Victoria
The state of Victoria employs the eServices Portal for submitting applications for a private security licence. After submitting the application, applicants will be directed to print and send it, along with supporting documentation, via postal mail. This process includes having their fingerprints taken if applicable. The Licensing and Regulation Division will process the application, and successful applicants will receive their plastic licence in the mail.
South Australia
In South Australia, applicants for a security licence must await contact from the South Australia Police, who will reach out using the email provided on the application to arrange fingerprinting. This indicates that fingerprinting is a mandatory component of the application process in this state.
Australian Capital Territory
The application process for a security licence in the Australian Capital Territory involves submitting the relevant application form and paying the prescribed fee. While there is no explicit mention of fingerprinting requirements, applicants must visit a Service Centre to have their photo and signature captured, suggesting that fingerprinting could be part of the process or required in certain circumstances.
Temporary Licences
Individuals from other states or territories seeking to work temporarily in Western Australia may apply for a temporary licence. While there is no explicit mention of fingerprint requirements for these licences, applicants must provide documentation for any required endorsements, suggesting that fingerprinting may be necessary depending on the specific requirements of the endorsement.
In summary, fingerprinting is a critical aspect of the security licence application process in Australia, with varying requirements across different states and territories. Applicants should refer to the specific instructions provided by the relevant authorities in their state or territory to ensure they meet all the necessary requirements, including fingerprinting.
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Photo ID
To apply for a security licence in Australia, you will need to provide proof of photographic identification. This can be done with a current Motor Drivers Licence or passport. If you are applying for a security licence in New South Wales, you will need to provide two proof of identity documents, one of which must contain your photograph and may require certification.
If you are applying for a security licence in Western Australia, you will need to provide your fingerprints and palm prints. This can be done at Licensing Services (Security) or at the nearest police station. If you are applying for a temporary licence to work in Western Australia, you will need to provide proof of a current equivalent licence in another Australian jurisdiction.
If you are applying for a security licence in South Australia, you will need to have your photo taken and show 100 points of identification. You can upload a photo directly to the CBS online portal or have your photo taken at a Service SA centre.
It is important to note that the requirements for a security licence may vary depending on the state or territory in Australia. It is recommended to check the specific requirements for the state or territory in which you are applying.
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Training
To apply for a security licence in Australia, you must complete the necessary training. The type of training you need depends on the state in which you are applying and the type of security work you want to do.
In Western Australia, you must hold the appropriate agent or non-agent licences for the security work you will be carrying out. Agent licences include Security Agent, Crowd Control Agent, and Inquiry Agent. Non-agent licences include Security Officer, Security Officer – Control Room/Monitoring Centre, Security Bodyguard, Crowd Controller, Security Consultant, Security Installer, and Investigator. To apply for a temporary licence in Western Australia, you must already hold a current equivalent licence in another Australian jurisdiction. This type of licence is only issued for a specific event or function and is valid for up to one year.
In New South Wales, you must hold a Class 1 or Class 2 security operative licence. To be eligible, you must have enrolled in or successfully completed training with a Security Licensing & Enforcement Directorate (SLED)-approved organisation. You must also be competent to carry out the security activities that the proposed licence will authorise.
In Victoria, applicants for a private security business licence must provide evidence of membership in an approved Security Industry Organisation or a current CPP40707 Certificate IV in Security and Risk Management or CPP40719 Certificate IV in Security Management. The issuing training organisation must be registered with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) or the Victorian Registration & Qualifications Authority (VRQA).
In South Australia, you must hold a security agent's licence. Before applying, you must obtain a criminal history check.
In the Australian Capital Territory, a security employee licence authorises the holder to carry out security activities under the relevant subclass. These include patrolling, guarding, watching, or protecting property, and installing, maintaining, monitoring, repairing, or servicing security equipment.
In addition to completing the required training, you must meet other eligibility requirements and submit the necessary documentation to apply for a security licence in Australia.
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Application forms
Western Australia
If you plan to work in Western Australia, you must hold the appropriate agent or non-agent licences. Agent licences include Security Agent, Crowd Control Agent, and Inquiry Agent. Non-agent licences include Security Officer, Security Officer – Control Room/Monitoring Centre, Security Bodyguard, Crowd Controller, Security Consultant, Security Installer, and Investigator.
To apply, you must complete the relevant application form and submit it to Licensing Services (Security) in person or by post. The application must be witnessed by a Justice of the Peace or a police officer. You will also need to provide proof of identification, such as a current driver's licence or passport, and proof of your current firearm endorsement if applicable.
If you have not previously provided your fingerprints, you must supply them, and there is a fee for this service. Your application will be processed in approximately 6 weeks, and there is no refund if your application is refused.
New South Wales
In NSW, you must hold a Class 1 or Class 2 security operative licence to work in the security industry. The application process involves creating a MyServiceNSW Account and logging in to apply online. You will need to provide two proof-of-identity documents, one of which must contain your photograph.
If you are not eligible for a NSW security licence, you may be able to carry out security activities under the Mutual Recognition Scheme if you are from another Australian state, territory, or New Zealand.
Victoria
In Victoria, you can apply for a private security licence through the eServices Portal. You will need to provide supporting documentation, including evidence of your competency. This can be demonstrated through a current Certificate IV in Security and Risk Management or Security Management from an approved training organisation.
Other requirements include providing a detailed resume, standard operating procedures, business plans, and evidence of public liability insurance.
South Australia
To work in the security industry in South Australia, you must hold a security agent's licence. The application process involves completing an online application for a Security and Investigation Agents Licence. As part of the process, you will need to complete a personal information declaration (PID), and South Australia Police will contact you to arrange fingerprinting.
Australian Capital Territory
In the ACT, you may apply for a security employee licence by completing the relevant application form and paying the prescribed fee. Your application will be forwarded to the Licensing Team for processing, and if approved, your licence will be posted to you.
Queensland
Although I could not find specific information on the application process for Queensland, the Queensland Government's website does mention that you can "get a security licence."
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Frequently asked questions
The requirements for a security licence in Australia vary by state, but generally, you must be a citizen or have a visa that allows you to work in the country, pass a criminal history check, and provide proof of identity and age. Some states may also require you to provide fingerprints and proof of relevant training.
To apply for a security licence in Western Australia, you must complete an online or in-person application and submit the required supporting documents, including proof of identification and training. You will also need to provide your fingerprints and undergo a criminal history check.
The types of security licences available in Australia include agent licences (such as security agent, crowd control agent, and inquiry agent) and non-agent licences (such as security officer, crowd controller, and security consultant). The specific subclasses and requirements may vary depending on the state.
The processing time for a security licence application in Australia can vary from four to six weeks, or even longer if there are missing documents or incorrect fee payments. Some states may have different processing times, so it is recommended to check with the relevant licensing authority.
Yes, there are some restrictions. For example, applicants must be of legal working age and meet the character requirements, including passing the criminal history check. Additionally, some states may require applicants to be residents of the state or have a current security licence from another Australian jurisdiction for temporary licences.
