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Information on ACT Licensing Changes  

• What changes have occurred?
  The ACT Government has recently passed the ACT Security Industry Act 2003.  One of the most significant changes is that security guards must now undertake training (the Certificate II in Security Operations) in order to qualify for a security licence.
   

• What licences are there? There are four classes of licence:

  • Master Licence (for employers and sole traders)

  • Employee Licence (there are several subclasses of employee licences)

    • Patrol, Guard or Watch Property (including Cash in Transit)

    • Bodyguard

    • Crowd control

    • Security consultant

    • Sell security equipment

    • Carry out surveys and inspections of security equipment

    • Give advice about security equipment

    • Install, maintain, monitor, repair or service security equipment
       

  • Trainer Licence (required for instructors providing courses for licensing purposes)

  • Temporary Licence (for trainees and for persons who have not yet fulfilled the training requirements)

• What will my licence look like? It will be durable hard plastic and it will include a photograph, licence number, the name of the licensee, the class of licence, the applicable subclass and the signature.  Licences must be worn at all times when on duty.
   

• How much will these licences cost?

  • Master Licence (there are no subclasses) $500 per year

    • Police check for each office holder $36

    • Police company search $36

    • Reissue of licence Free

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  Master Licence Applicants must be members of an approved association

    • BSCAA (Phone 0294390142) e-mail

    • Australian Chapter of ASIS International

    • Institute of Security Executives Inc. 02-96762766 e-mail

    • For a complete list of all approved associations contact the Department of Fair Trading

  
   

• Employee Licences and Temporary Licences

  • 1 subclass $80 and $10 for each additional subclass

  • All 8 subclasses $150

  • Reissue of licence $15

  • Police Checks $36
     

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  Employee licence applicants must have completed a prescribed qualification conducted by an approved and licensed training provider.

Patrol, Guard or Watch Property (including Cash in Transit)	Certificate II in Security Operations
Bodyguard	Certificate II in Security Operations with the following electives Protect Persons PRSSO209A Protect self and others using basic defensive tactics PRSSO222A
Crowd control	Certificate II in Security Operations with the following electives Protect self and others using basic defensive tactics PRSSO222A Control access to and exit from premises PRSSO210A Monitor and control individual and crowd behaviour PRSSO211A
Security consultant	Certificate IV in Security Risk Management
Sell security equipment Carry out surveys and inspections of security equipment Give advice about security equipment Install, maintain, monitor, repair or service security equipment	For a person who is not a locksmith Certificate II in Technical Security For a person who is a locksmith Certificate III in Engineering Technology (locksmithing stream) or Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade (locksmithing)

 

• Security Trainer Licence

  • All or any subclasses $150

  • Reissue of licence $15

  • Police check $36

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  Trainer's licence applicants must have completed a prescribed qualification conducted by an approved and licensed training provider.

    Patrol, Guard or Watch Property (including Cash in Transit)	Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training Certificate II in Security Operations
    Bodyguard	Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training Certificate II in Security Operations with the following electives Protect Persons PRSSO209A Protect self and others using basic defensive tactics PRSSO222A
    Crowd control	Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training Certificate II in Security Operations with the following electives Protect self and others using basic defensive tactics PRSSO222A Control access to and exit from premises PRSSO210A Monitor and control individual and crowd  behaviour PRSSO211A
    Security consultant	Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training Certificate IV in Security Risk Management
    Sell security equipment Carry out surveys and inspections of security equipment Give advice about security equipment Install, maintain, monitor, repair or service security equipment	Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training For a person who is not a locksmith Certificate II in Technical Security For a person who is a locksmith Certificate III in Engineering Technology (locksmithing stream) or Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade (locksmithing)

• How long will the licence last? All licences will be issued on a yearly basis.  There is no current provision for multiple-year licences.
   

• I want to be a security consultant.  What course do I have to complete? You will need to complete the Certificate IV in Security (Risk Management).

• I want to be a security guard.  What course do I have to complete? You will need to complete the Certificate II in Security Operations.
   

• Can I still complete the Certificate II in Security (Guarding)? The ACT Security Industry Act 2003, states that you must complete an approved training program.  The Certificate II in Security (Guarding) is still valid for licensing in the ACT.  However, the course will be superseded in the near future by the Certificate II in Security Operations.
  
  There is a condition regarding the Certificate II in Security (Guarding):

• New applicants can use the Certificate II in Security (Guarding) until around January 2004 after that they will need to obtain the Certificate II in Security Operations.

• I am a registered security guard.  Do I have to complete the Certificate II in Security Operations to keep my licence? The Office of Fair Trading has implemented a transitional arrangement.   If you are registered under any of the codes of practice, your registration will be extended for 12 months from the date it would normally have expired.    You will still need to apply for the renewal, but you will not be required to submit a Certificate II in Security Operations.
  
  During that 12-month grace period, you will have to complete the new qualification.
  
  Safecity recommends that all registered security guards should complete the new qualification as soon as possible.   Properly trained officers are highly regarded in the industry and enjoy the benefits that good training provides.  You will experience a sense of pride in your professionalism, greater skills and knowledge.
   

• I have considerable experience in the security industry.  Can I apply for recognition? Safecity's recognition process is rigorous and fair.  You will be expected to demonstrate the same level of competency as students who have completed our course.  Our RPL process lasts two days and includes both theory and practical assessments.  The cost of the RPL is $400 and is non-refundable. 

Profit Without Honour Is Loss

• I have been offered an "easy RPL" or a "cheap" short course.  Why should I undertake a properly conducted course?  We are aware that it is possible to buy qualifications and RPL from unethical trainers.  The authorities are determined to stamp out such fraudulent activities.  In NSW several trainers have been deregistered and their certificates no longer accepted.  If your trainer is caught (and they will be caught) you will most likely be required to undertake the training again. 
  
  Additionally, obtaining your qualification by cheating the system will eventually hurt you and your employer.  There are heavy penalties awaiting untrained security guards.  Why cheat, when you can obtain your qualification in a supportive and friendly environment at Safecity?
  
  Stamp out corruption in the training of security guards by reporting shonky trainers to the Department of Fair Trading - Phone 62070562 and the ACT Registration Council phone 62057055
   

• I have a criminal record.  Can I apply for a security licence? When you apply for a security licence, you will be subject to a police criminal history check.  If you have committed an offence involving a serious crime (dishonesty, violence, drugs, weapons, fraud) you are unlikely to be granted a licence. The Department can also refuse to issue a licence if it is not in the public interest to grant one.  
  
  Minor traffic offences are not generally considered as a disqualifying offence.  However, I could be wrong.  It is essential that you consider these issues before applying for training in order to avoid financial loss.
  
  Please make sure to complete the declaration form included in your application kit.  If you are intending to also apply for a NSW security Licence, make sure to fill the authority for pre-training criminal history check, without this form we will not be able to release your free additional Certificate II in Security (Guarding) certificate.
   

• I am a licensed security guard or trainer in another state.   You can apply for a recognition licence.  If you are a Master Licence holder in another State, you will not be able to request recognition for the Master Licence for your company.  Sole Traders who are Master Licence Holders will be able to apply for recognition.  The licence fees are the same.
  
   

• How do I apply for a licence? After the 3rd of September 2003, you must visit the Department of Fair Trading in person, obtain a licence application form, complete the form and furnish evidence.  There are two types of forms that will be available shortly.

  • Application for a licence

  • Application for a licence under mutual recognition (for interstate licence holders)
     

• What is involved in completing the Certificate II in Security Operations with Safecity?  I have outlined the requirements below.
   

Certificate II in Security Operations required qualification for the new Employee Licences (Patrolling/Guarding, Bodyguard and Crowd Control)

CORE UNITS (Everyone must complete these)

• PRSSO201A Communicate effectively in the security industry

• PRSSO202A Maintain workplace safety (includes Occupational Health and Safety competencies)

• PRSSO203A Work effectively in the security industry (includes relevant legislation)

• PRSSO204A Work as part of a team

• PRSSO205A Provide security services to customers

• PRSSO206A Provide First Aid

• PRSSO207A Respond to security risk situation
   

ELECTIVE UNITS (You must chose at least four of these)

• PRSSO209A Protect persons

• PRSSO210A Control access and exit from premises

• PRSSO211A Monitor and control individual and crowd behaviour

• PRSSO212A Screen baggage and people

• PRSSO213A Protect valuables in transit

• PRSSO205A Operate basic security equipment

• PRSSO216A Patrol premises

• PRSSO222A Protect self and others using basic defensive tactics

Safecity recommends you undertake all of the electives.  Doing so will make you more employable and will broaden the number of security activities you can conduct. 

If you undertake all of the above electives we recommend, you will be able to apply for the following employee licences:

• Patrol, Guard or Watch Property (including Cash in Transit)

• Bodyguard

• Crowd control

Required course duration: 135 hours  (Sunday to Friday 9 am to 6 pm for two weeks + the following Sunday).  The course duration is based on completing all electives listed.  The 135 hours include 13 days classroom attendance + external study projects.

Course cost: $630 this includes a WorkCover Approved Senior First Aid.   Safecity's Senior First Aid course includes the required treatment for gun shot, stab and needle stick injuries.  Because of the new training package requirements we will need to assess your First Aid competency, including these workplace specific skills.  As a result, students who already hold current Senior First Aid Certificates will not receive a discount. 

Safecity has produced a bundle that is cost effective and provides you with the greatest workplace flexibility.  The cost of the bundle remains the same irrespectively whether you choose to undergo all electives or only the required four.  Safecity's has consistently maintained a generous pricing structure for the benefit of our students.

Additional Bonus Qualification at no extra charge:  Safecity's students will also receive the Certificate II in Security (Guarding) certification approved by the NSW Police Security Industry Registry Unit for class 1ABC Licence.

• Can I complete this course by home study or distance education? No.  Entry level courses for security guards include tactical training, conflict management, communication skills and team building exercises.  In our view these skills cannot be attained by reading a book and watching a video. 
  
  Safecity believes that face-to-face classroom attendance in a team environment, facilitated by a competent trainer, is the most appropriate delivery mode.  Your life and the lives of your clients and colleagues will depend on the quality of training you receive. 
   

• Do I have to complete all the units in one block of training? Ideally this is the best option.  However, we realise that some students will only be able to attend some of the training sessions.  Safecity has been training in the ACT for the past 8 years and we have a permanent training centre in Fyshwick.  Therefore, if you cannot complete training in one session, you are welcome to join a following class, depending on availability.
  
  You will receive statements of attainment for the units you complete.  Naturally, you will not receive a qualification until you have completed all the required units.
   

• How many students will be in my class? Safecity opposes the "cattle style" approach to training.  Our classes are small (usually 15 students maximum).  In the rare occasions where larger classes are required by clients, we increase the number of trainers and training aids.  
   

• Is this course suitable for women? Absolutely!  There is a high demand for intelligent, competent women in the security industry.  Safecity's classes are conducted in friendly, supportive environment.  We have zero tolerance for sexist, racist remarks and offensive language.  All students are required to behave in a respectful and supportive manner towards each other. 
  
  Our trainers are highly qualified professionals (many of them are women) who enjoy helping others to learn-- there is no room at Safecity for pompous, aggressive trainers who mask their lack of competence and self-esteem by denigrating their students.
   

• Can I pay the fees by instalments? If you are unable to pay the full fee, please contact Elizabeth Murdoch and propose a payment plan that suits your budget.  There is a minimum non-refundable deposit of $100.  You can attend the course, but you will not receive the full qualification until you have paid the balance.
   

• What is your refund policy? As a general rule there is a non refundable deposit.  Refunds are calculated on the proportion of the course you have completed.  Each refund is assessed on a case by case basis.  You may also view our policy about refunds on our support website
  
  If you are expelled from a program due to unacceptable conduct or breach of our policies, we reserve the right to retain all fees paid.
   

• When I finish this course, will I get a job? Part of our training includes role plays and activities that will help you prepare for interviews and make yourself more attractive to employers.  Safecity has built a reputation as a high quality training provider.  Employers know that our students earn their qualifications.   The speed with which you will gain employment will match the effort that you put in. 
  
  There is no doubt that the Security Industry is an ever growing and ever expanding one.  Crime does pay if you are on the right side of it.
   

• Where will you conduct the course?  Our next course will be conducted at our new training centre in Fyshwick.

Shop 5, 60 "Cosmopolitan Court"
Wollongong Street, Fyshwick
 

• How do I enrol? You can phone Safecity on 63355216, E-mail us or download an application kit.

  
  to download an application kit
   

TRAINEESHIPS  

Whether you are an employer looking for new staff, or a job seeker looking for an exciting career in security, Safecity can help you by matching your goals with a traineeship.  Traineeships pay for your training, your workers compensation and provide employers with incentives.  Call us today!

Safecity produces leaders. Join us, we are the future. 


Alexander Wilon JP
Managing Director

Customer Support Site