A licenced security guard or a security officer is not just a piece of paper for legal requirements, it is a responsibility or commitment to public safety and protection in NSW. If you are also planning a career in the security industry, then there must be a bunch of questions in your mind.
What eligibility criteria are needed to obtain a security licence in NSW? Is there any minimum age to apply for a security licence? What ongoing training requirement must be met to obtain a licence in NSW? Many more questions…
Take a deep breath. Here is a quick guide to outline essential points to kick-start your security career.
Assess the eligibility:- Before you dive into the application process, first make sure you are eligible to hold a security licence. But the NSW has strict rules on who can or who must not possess the security licence.
Applicant must:
- Be over 18 years of age
- Have a clean criminal record
- Be physically fit and proper person to hold the class of licence sought
- Have successfully completed or enrolled in training with a Security Licensing & Enforcement Directorate (SLED) approved organisation
- Possess valid identity documents
- Either be a permanent Australian citizen or permanent resident, be a NZ citizen, or hold a visa sponsored by a Master licence holder, or hold a visa for a skilled occupation that corresponds to the licence subclass for which you’re applying.
Qualifications, Certifications, and Training Requirements:- To obtain a security licence in NSW, you must complete accredited training courses. Training courses are segregated on the basis of the licence you are pursuing or the post you want in the security industry. Let us understand in detail:
- To acquire a NSW Security Guard Licence, i.e. 1A licence, they must have completed Certificate II in Security Operations with an approved organisation.
- To acquire a 1B Body Guard Licence, 1C Cash in Transit Licence or a 1F FireArms Licence, they must have completed the relevant SLED-approved skill set from either the Certificate III in Security Operations or the Certificate III in Close Personal Protection that was conducted by a SLED approved organisation.
When applying for a position as an unarmed security guard or crowd controller, applicants are required to possess a Certificate II in Security Operations. However, for the issuance of a 1D and 1F security licence, a Certificate III is necessary. It’s worth noting that the requirement for a Certificate III for the issuance of a 1B security licence is currently in the process of being phased out. In the near future, obtaining a 1B licence will only necessitate a skill set comprising two units of competency from the Certificate III in Close Personal Protection. This change signifies a shift in the qualification standards for security personnel, with a focus on adapting to evolving industry needs and practices.
Identity Proof or Necessary Documents:- When you apply for the security licence, you are required to provide 100 points of ID. There are also other paperwork or documents that need to be submitted to SLED. Be sure that the documents you supply SLED have been certified by a Justice of the Peace. SLED will not accept original documents or documents that are uncertified.
This document includes:
- The documents that are usually considered as ID are either a Passport and Driver’s Licence or a Passport and NSW Photo ID Card.
- Proof of Australian citizenship, residence, birth certificate, or immigration paperwork.
- First-Aid Certificate
- Additional documentation is required if you have changed your name or lived abroad in the last ten years. Check the complete list of documents on the Service NSW website.
It is important to double-check the accuracy of your personal details and ensure that all required identification documents are included in your application. This helps streamline the application process and minimises the chances of any delays or complications.
NOTE: SLED states in their conditions of approval document:
“Original certified means an original document sighted, and copies signed, by a current NSW Justice of the Peace (and in accordance with the NSW Justice of the Peace Act 2002 and NSW Justice of the Peace Regulation 2014).”
How to Apply?
Once you have met the qualifications and completed the necessary training, you can begin the licensing application process. To apply for a security licence in NSW, you need to submit an application to the appropriate regulatory authority, the Security Licensing and Enforcement Directorate (SLED). The application process requires you to complete the necessary forms and provide supporting documents, including your identification documents, training certifications, and First Aid Certificate, HLTAID011.
- After you fill out the form, SLED will contact you with instructions to visit the NSW police station for finger/palmprint scanning.
- Get your fingerprints taken at the approved police station.
- SLED will perform the necessary background check, and if everything is clear and good, you will receive the photograph advice in the mail.
- Take your photograph advice letter with you to the Security NSW office; they will take your photo and finalise your application.
- At last, once everything is approved, get the security licence of your name in your mail shortly.
It is important to carefully follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the regulatory authority to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
Why Obtaining a Licence is Necessary?
Obtaining a security licence is not just a legal requirement; it is essential for your professional growth and credibility in the security industry. Holding a security licence demonstrates that you have met the necessary qualifications and requirements to work as a security professional, instilling confidence in potential employers and clients. It expands your job opportunities, as many employers require a valid security licence as a prerequisite for employment. Additionally, having a security licence enhances your reputation and sets you apart as a committed and qualified individual in the industry.
Hurray!!! You have got your licence, and now you are ready to embark on your career in the security industry. After passing all the tests and eligibility criteria, you are finally ready to live your dream.
It is a long process to get a licence, and it also requires certifications from an approved institute. Right? Then why wait to check on our upcoming courses and take the first step of the journey?
If you have questions or doubts regarding courses or licence application, call us on 1300 891 503 or fill out our contact form, and we will come to you.
