What are the Security Licence Requirements in SA?

Navigating Security Licence Requirements for International Students in Adelaide

security licence requirements in SA

Table of Contents

The need for security services in Adelaide Australia has seen a surge in recent times, due to the growing awareness of security threats and the necessity for safeguards. Viral YouTube clips of thieves stealing parcels from private homes and other scenes captured on home surveillance systems have underscored the need for prevention as the best remedy. Businesses and individuals alike are recognising the significance of employing trained experts to manage potential risks.

The expansion of the tourism and events sector in South Australia has also contributed to the heightened demand for security measures. With an increase in the number of tourists and events occurring, there is a greater necessity for security staff to ensure the safety of participants and the trouble free enjoyment of these events for everyone concerned.

Navigating the intricacies of security licence requirements for international students in Adelaide can be challenging. This article offers a detailed guide for international students aiming to pursue a career in the security sector within South Australia, outlining everything from eligibility and training prerequisites to expenses and processes for acquiring the necessary licences.

Can International Students Get a Security Licence in South Australia?

Yes, international students can obtain a security licence in South Australia. The security licence requirements set by the South Australian government requires applicants to be over 18 years of age, have a clean criminal record, and complete a certified training course. These courses are designed to equip students with the necessary skills to perform security duties effectively.

Ready to begin an exciting new career, where you get to live and work in an amazing Australian city like Adelaide?

How Do I Become a Security Guard in SA?

Rear view of a man wearing a vest that says Security across the back speaking into a walkie talkie

For individuals interested in pursuing a career in the security industry in South Australia, they must first get a security licence. This licence is the basic legal requirement for a security officer and ensures that the holder is comprehensively trained and equipped to handle diverse scenarios effectively. It also offers assurance to employers and clients who require dependable and competent security personnel.

To qualify for the private security licence requirements you need to:

Be 18 years old or older and either a resident of Australia or a legitimate visa holder with current working rights. You must also pass a National Police Check, including fingerprinting. You will need to submit certified copies of International Police Checks from any country where you’ve resided for over 12 months since turning 16 years old.

To meet the security licence requirements in Australia you are required to be a ‘suitable person,’ which means no medical issues or history with the police that could impair your employment in the industry. You will be asked to provide written references that underscore your suitability for employment in the private security industry.

Another of the security licence requirements is that you submit 100 points of certified identification (e.g. passport, birth certificate, Medicare card, Foreign or Australian Driver’s licence, etc.) and any documents related to a name change.

Moreover, licence applicants must prove competency in the security industry by completing accredited training with a registered training organisation such as Skills Training College, which is approved by the Licensing and Regulation Division.

To apply for a licence that enables you to offer services in crowd or venue management, security system setup and upkeep, property or personal protection, or providing security system sales and guidance, you must possess either a security company or agent’s licence. Exemptions exist for specific professionals, like law enforcement officials and legal experts. However, if your aim is to educate individuals to become licenced agents, it is essential to add security agent trainer in your licence application.

What are the different types of security guard licence requirements in South Australia?

security guard course

The main types of security guard licence requirements available in South Australia are:

  1. Security Agent Licence:
    • This is the standard licence required to work as a security guard in South Australia.
    • It covers roles such as crowd or venue control, security system installation and maintenance, property or personal guarding, and security system sales and advice.
  2. Restricted Security Agent Licence:
    • This licence is available for those who don’t have all the required qualifications, allowing them to work under the direct supervision of a fully licenced security agent.
  3. Security Agent Trainer Licence:
    • This additional licence is required if you will be training people to become licenced security agents.
  4. H6 Firearms Licence (for Security Companies):
    • Security companies must obtain this licence from South Australian Police if they want their security guards to be able to possess firearms on the job.

What’s involved in Security Training in Adelaide?

group of students studying and training

The CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations is the essential qualification needed to work as a security guard or crowd manager in South Australia. This program includes 14 compulsory units of competency, covering areas such as proficient communication, legal and procedural mandates, crisis management, hazard evaluation, and introductory defensive methods.

What Will I learn in a Security Course?

Security guard monitoring crowd behaviour for intoxicated persons on an employer's property for maintaining safety - Security Course for International Students at Skills Training College

The CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations for international students course covers the core competencies required to work as a security guard or crowd controller in Adelaide and across Australia. The following is a summary of the course curriculum:

  1. Security Fundamentals:
    • Apply effective communication skills to maintain security
    • Understand and apply legal and procedural requirements for security work
    • Implement WHS, emergency response, and evacuation procedures
  2. Risk Assessment and Response:
    • Conduct risk assessments and select appropriate security responses
    • Provide quality services to a range of security clients
  3. Self-Defense and Patrol Techniques:
    • Protect self and others using basic defensive techniques
    • Patrol premises to monitor property and maintain security
  4. Access Control and Crowd Management:
    • Screen people, personal effects, and items to maintain security
    • Monitor and control access, exit, individual, and crowd behavior
    • Apply security procedures to manage intoxicated persons and remove them from the premises
  5. Escort and Protection Services:
    • Escort and protect people and valuables
  6. First Aid:
    • Provide first aid in emergencies

How is CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations delivered?

A group of students studying at home

At Skills Training College, the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations course is conducted on a full time basis and is delivered entirely with face-to-face classroom training.

We have a rolling intake every Monday which means that international students can start at any time during the training term. The course is made up of two weeks of classroom time, including all practical and theoretical learning, instruction, and evaluations.

After the two weeks of classroom instruction, the third week is set aside for assisting you in finishing any remaining assessments.

Get Better Security Training With Skills Training College

As a leading CRICOS approved vocational education provider, our security licence course is ideal for an international student in Australia on a foreign visa who aims to start a career in security. The comprehensive, three-week security training undertaken at Skills Training College enables international students to securely safeguard venues, properties, individuals, and importantly, themselves.

After finishing your training, you’ll be equipped to manage security risk scenarios as a security officer, security guard, or crowd controller, among other potential roles. The earlier you start, the quicker you’ll unlock additional prospects in your Adelaide security career path. Enrol now in an accredited security course at Skills Training College.

For international students in Adelaide, understanding and fulfilling the requirements for obtaining a security licence can provide significant employment opportunities. By taking advantage of the quality training provided by institutions like Skills Training College and familiarising themselves with the necessary procedures, international students can effectively navigate the path to successful and rewarding careers in security and other fields in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Students Do Security Jobs in Australia?

Yes, students can engage in security jobs in Australia if they possess a valid security licence. This provides opportunities for employment across diverse sectors, such as events, retail protection, and business security.

No, an SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence issued in the UK is not valid in Australia. Each country has specific licensing requirements, and international licences are generally not transferrable. Prospective international students will have to complete Australian certification to work in security.

To convert a New South Wales security licence to South Australia, you should apply for mutual recognition of your existing licence. This process involves submitting your current licence details, proving your qualifications, and providing any additional required documentation to the licencing authority in South Australia.