Security professionals operate within strict legal frameworks, where every action, from patrolling a site to handling incidents, must comply with the law. Crossing these boundaries, even unintentionally, can have serious consequences. So what law governs these rules? The short answer: statutory law.
In simple terms, statutory law (also called the law of statutes) is the body of written laws passed by Parliament, both state and federal. It provides the legal foundation that defines what security professionals can and cannot do, from licensing requirements to the lawful use of force.
This blog breaks down the statutory law meaning, explains why it’s essential for security guards and risk managers, provides real-world examples of statutes in action, and shows how mastering these laws can make or break your career in security.
What Is Statutory Law (and How It Differs from Common Law)
Statutory law is the collection of formal rules written and enacted by Parliament, like the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) or the Work Health & Safety Act 2011. Think of it as the “rulebook” of society.
In contrast, common law (also called case law) is developed by judges through court decisions; it fills the gaps when no specific statute covers a situation.
To put it simply:
- Statutory law = Laws written by Parliament (what you must follow).
- Common law = Laws interpreted by courts (how those rules apply in real life).
For a security professional, understanding what is statutory law isn’t optional; it’s the difference between operating legally and crossing the line without even realising it.
Why Statutory Law Matters in Security
Licensing & Compliance
Before you can even wear a uniform, you need a private security officer license, and getting one requires compliance with statutory laws. Security licensing is regulated by state legislation, for example, the Security Industry Act 1997 (NSW), which sets eligibility, conduct, and renewal standards.
That’s why every student at MultiSec learns about licensing laws during their security license courses. It ensures you know not just how to do your job, but also what the law allows you to do.
Everyday Security Work
Every day, security professionals deal with situations where the law of statutes applies even in routine moments:
- Handling trespassers?: Governed by the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).
- Managing surveillance footage?: Covered under the Surveillance Devices Act 2007 (NSW).
- Responding to aggression?: Must follow lawful “use of force” principles.
Knowing the statutory law meaning behind each of these ensures you act within legal boundaries. As the saying goes, “ignorance of the law is no excuse.”
Risk Management
In large venues, events, or corporate security, risk managers rely on statutory laws to assess liability and safety. The Work Health & Safety Act 2011 defines what’s legally considered a safe work environment, meaning your decisions on crowd control, emergency exits, or even communication systems all tie back to the statute.
Examples of Statutory Law in Action
Let’s make it practical. Here are key pieces of legislation that directly affect the security industry:
- Security Industry Act 1997 (NSW) – Sets the framework for obtaining and maintaining a private security officer license.
- Work Health & Safety Act 2011 – Ensures safe working conditions for all personnel, including security guards.
- Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) – Defines offences like trespassing or assault that guards must identify or report.
- Surveillance Devices Act 2007 (NSW) – Regulates audio, video, and data surveillance, crucial for those in monitoring roles.
Each of these laws forms part of the statutory law structure that every licensed guard must know and apply daily.
Statutory Law & Security Training
At MultiSec Training, statutory law isn’t treated like a dry legal subject; it’s embedded in everything you learn.
From the Security Guard Course (Cert II) to Cert IV in Security Risk Analysis, you’ll explore how statutory laws apply to crowd control, reporting, use of force, and incident management.
Even in First Aid and CPR training, understanding your legal responsibilities is vital, for example, knowing when you’re protected under “duty of care” and when you must hand over to medical professionals.
By combining legal awareness with practical skills, MultiSec ensures every student leaves confident, compliant, and ready to meet workplace standards.
Career Path & Next Steps
Here’s the truth: understanding statutory law isn’t just about ticking a compliance box. It’s about building a career with integrity and confidence.
Employers prefer candidates who know the law of statutes, because it reduces risk and builds trust. And when you complete your security license courses at MultiSec, you don’t just gain a qualification, you get guaranteed job placement support to kickstart your career.
Enrol in a security licence course today and gain the legal knowledge and practical skills to stand out in Australia’s growing security industry.
End Note
So, what is statutory law? It’s the backbone of Australia’s legal system, a set of written laws passed by Parliament that every security professional must follow.
For guards, managers, and anyone aiming for a private security officer license, understanding statutory law isn’t optional; it’s essential for safety, compliance, and professionalism.
Contact MultiSec Training today to start your journey toward becoming a legally informed, fully licensed security professional who knows the law and knows how to work within it.
