The Australian security industry is growing a lot, creating a great opportunity for those looking to kickstart a career in the field, especially in New South Wales (NSW). Being a licenced security guard in NSW means you’ll have the opportunity to play a vital role in handling emergencies, preventing crimes, and managing crowds. This job involves a variety of tasks and responsibilities, making it an interesting and rewarding career choice. To get started, you’ll need to undergo some training. It’s essential to enrol in training courses that cover important topics like legal responsibilities, emergency response, and conflict management. These courses are vital for meeting the requirements to obtain your licence.
This guide is designed to provide you with all the information you need to successfully apply for a security guard licence in NSW, which is an important step toward securing a job in this field. We aim to guide you through the licensing process and provide you with clear and concise information. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to gain a better understanding of the process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, completing your training, and obtaining your licence, you’ll be on your way to a rewarding job in the security industry that matches your skills and goals.
Types of Individual Security Licence
It’s important to note that to work in the security industry in NSW, one must have the appropriate individual licences, which are classified as either Class 1 or Class 2. These licences cater to specific roles within the field, and it’s possible to hold multiple classes or subclasses under a single licence. Understanding the differences between these Class 1 and Class 2 licences allows individuals to pursue a career path that is perfectly aligned with their abilities, interests, and professional goals in the constantly evolving sector of security in New South Wales.
Here are the roles covered by a Class 1 or Class 2 licence type in the security industry in NSW:
Class 1 Licences
| Licence Type | Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Security Officer (1A) | General security responsibilities, ensuring the safety of people and property in various situations. |
| Bodyguard (1B) | Experts in personal protection, defending clients against potential danger or injury. |
| Cash-in-Transit Guard (1C) | Responsible for the secure transfer of cash and valuables, minimizing the risk of theft or unauthorized access. |
| Guard Dog Handler (1D) | In charge of controlling and managing trained guard dogs to enhance overall security measures. |
| Monitoring Centre Operator (1E) | Monitors and handles security systems, such as alarms and surveillance, providing a timely response to potential issues. |
| Armed Guard (1F) | Authorized to carry weapons while performing security responsibilities, typically in situations requiring an extra level of protection. |
Class 2 Licences
| Licence Type | Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Security Consultant (2A) | Offers professional guidance to businesses and organisations on risk assessments, security measures, and overall strategy. |
| Security Seller (2B) | Sells security-related products and services, ensuring compliance with rules and ethical standards. |
| Security Equipment Specialist (2C) | Specialises in the installation, maintenance, and repair of security equipment like surveillance cameras and access systems. |
| Security Trainer (2D) | Authorised to provide training to aspiring security professionals, imparting essential skills and knowledge. |
| Private Investigator (2E) | Undertakes investigative work, gathering information for legal, corporate, or private clients through research and surveillance. |
Security Licence Application Process in NSW
Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to applying for a security licence in New South Wales:
A) Check Your Eligibility
Before jumping into the security licence application process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by the NSW government. This involves two main categories: General and Criminal and Other Related.
General Suitability Criteria:
1. Age Requirement- You need to be 18 years of age or older when you apply for a security licence. This means you don’t have to be 18 to start training but must be when applying.
2. Competencies and Experience- You should have the necessary skills and experience required for the specific security licence you’re applying for.
3. Fit and Proper Person- You must show that you are a suitable and trustworthy person to hold the type of licence you’re seeking.
4. Training Completion- Successfully finish any required training and assessment needed for your specific licence.
5. Citizenship/Residency- You must be an Australian/New Zealand citizen, permanent Australian resident, or hold a work-entitling visa (excluding student or working holiday visas).
6. Competency- Show that you are capable of carrying out the security activity related to the licence you’re applying for.
7. International Applicants- If you’re not an Australian/New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, you must submit police certificates from countries where you’ve lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years since turning 16. Translate each certificate into English if needed and have them verified by the relevant country’s embassy/consulate in Australia. Ensure these certificates are issued within six months before your application submission.
Required Documents-
1. Provide a translated police certificate (if necessary) from each country lived in, verified by the relevant country’s embassy/consulate in Australia.
2. Obtain a Driver’s Licence, Photo Card, or Customer Number from NSW Roads & Maritime Services.
Criminal and Other Related History Suitability Criteria:
1. Convictions (Past 10 Years): You shouldn’t have been found guilty of a crime specified by the regulations in NSW or any other state over the previous ten years.
2. Police Force Removal: Within the last 10 years, you shouldn’t have been removed or dismissed from the New South Wales Police Force or any other jurisdiction on integrity grounds or due to involvement in corrupt conduct.
3. Within the Last 5 Years: In the previous 5 years, you shouldn’t have been found guilty (with no conviction recorded) by a court in NSW or elsewhere of an offence prescribed by the regulations. Also, within the last 5 years, there shouldn’t be any civil penalties imposed against you by a court or tribunal in NSW or elsewhere as prescribed by the regulations.
B) Obtain Essential Training
Applying for a NSW security guard licence requires completing the required training. Enrolling in security guard training provided by a recognized training organisation (RTO) is essential if you want to apply for a NSW security guard licence. The primary qualification required for individuals who want to work as crowd controllers or unarmed security guards in NSW is the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations. This extensive course ensures you’re well-prepared for the challenges that come with the profession by covering all the important aspects of security operations. You will be required to complete a Language, Literacy, and Numeracy Test (LLN) as part of the training requirements. This aids in evaluating your fundamental abilities.
It’s also essential to have a valid first aid certificate. This requirement highlights the importance of being prepared to respond successfully in an emergency circumstance. Going through this specific training not only provides you with the knowledge and skills you need for the job but it also prepares you to handle the different duties that come with being a security professional. This training prepares you for activities such as emergency response, crime prevention, and crowd management, all of which are required to obtain a Security Guard Licence in New South Wales. If you’re looking for a trustworthy option to undergo a complete training program for becoming a security guard, consider Multisec Training. We are completely licenced, insured, and SLED-authorised, making us a reliable choice for your training needs.
C) Collect the Required Document
As the next step in your application process, it’s crucial to collect the essential documents to support your Security Guard Licence application. Begin by securing your training certificate, a fundamental proof of your successful completion of the required security training.
In addition to the training certificate, ensure you have the following documents in order:
1. Proof of Citizenship, Residency, or Visa Status
To prove your Australian citizenship, residency, or visa status, provide a valid passport, birth certificate, or immigration documentation.
2. Current First Aid Certificate
Provide a copy of your most recent First Aid Certificate, which is a requirement for your application and shows your emergency competence.
3. Additional Documents for Name Changes or Overseas Residency
If you’ve changed your name or lived abroad during the last ten years, obtain any necessary documentation. For specific criteria, please see the entire list on the Service NSW website.
Each document should be photocopied and individually certified by a Justice of the Peace, legal practitioner, or Notary Public. This certification process enhances the credibility and validity of your documents during the application procedure.
D) Submitting Your Licence Application Online
To apply for a security licence in New South Wales, you can use the Service NSW website. The process is very simple and can be completed online. While filling out the application, make sure you have electronic copies of all your certified documents, such as proof of citizenship or residency, training certificates, and other necessary credentials.
You will also need to make a secure online payment for the applicable fees using your credit card or other mode of payment provided by the website. The fees cover essential processing costs, and you can find the most up-to-date fee information on the Service NSW website. To ensure a smooth application process, make sure to fill out all the required information carefully.
E) Schedule Your Biometric Appointment
Following the submission of your application, the next critical step is to receive the ‘Finger/Palmprint Advice’ from the Security Licensing and Enforcement Directorate (SLED). This normally takes roughly 7-8 weeks, and you’ll be notified via text message, email, or letter.
Once you’ve received the instructions, the next step is to make an appointment at an accredited New South Wales police station to have your fingerprints and palm prints taken. This must be done within 42 days, so proceed quickly. Remember to bring the ‘Finger/Palmprint Advice’ with you to the police station because it contains important information for the biometric process. This stage plays an important role in completing your security licence application.
F) Probity Assessment and Photograph Submission
After you’ve had your fingerprints taken, SLED (Security Licensing and Enforcement Directorate) will start a probity assessment. This assessment involves comprehensive background checks in NSW and other parts of Australia. Be patient, as this assessment can take about 4-6 weeks. If the probability assessment shows everything is clear and your security licence is approved, you’ll get a letter called ‘Photograph Advice’ in the mail.
Now, within the next 60 days, you need to go to a Service NSW centre or an authorised agency. Take along your ‘Photograph Advice’ letter, and at the centre, they will take your picture to finalise your licence application. This step is the last one before you officially get your security licence.
G) Receive Your NSW Security Licence by Mail
Once you have completed the application process, which includes having your photograph taken at a Service NSW centre, you should expect to receive your official NSW Security licence by mail within 10 working days. This licence provides an official licence to engage in security-related employment in New South Wales. However, if your application is refused, you will receive a detailed letter outlining the reasons for the decision and any available avenues for appealing it. We advise you to review the letter thoroughly and consider your options based on the information provided.
Key Considerations for Security Licence Approval in Australia
1. Check your area’s standards about past crimes, as they may affect your ability to obtain a security licence.
2. Tell the truth on your application to avoid losing your licence later.
3. Finish the needed training and get the right qualifications for the security job you want.
4. Give all the papers they ask for correctly to avoid problems with your application.
5. Fix any money issues before applying, like debts or money troubles, to improve your chances of getting a security licence.
6. To prove your trustworthiness, show that you have overcome previous drug or alcohol problems.
7. If needed, show that your mental health is stable for the security job.
8. Ask good, reliable people to say you’re trustworthy when applying for a security licence.
9. Stay away from bad activities or groups connected to crime for a better chance to get your security licence approved.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a Security Guard Licence in NSW involves several essential steps. It begins with determining eligibility, completing mandatory training, and submitting accurate documentation. After this, you have to wait for approval from the Security Licensing and Enforcement Directorate (SLED). It is important to stay up-to-date with the guidelines set by SLED to ensure a smooth process.
Multisec Training is a registered training organisation that is fully licenced, insured, and approved by SLED. We are happy to provide premium security training courses, such as security guard training and security risk analysis. In addition, we provide nationally recognized first aid and CPR training to help you prepare for a successful career in the dynamic profession of security. Multisec Training can help you achieve excellence in security education and training.
