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The contents of this Security
Training Website are no longer valid after the 30th of June 2004.
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NEW!
Certificate IV in Security Risk Management - Click
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This site has been published for the benefit of all NSW Security officers and course candidates. Opinions expressed in this site are solely of Safecity's Training Academy and its Directors. Safecity advises you to contact the NSW Police Security Industry Registry Unit for confirmation of the accuracy of material published in this site before making any decision regarding your security licence application.
The Commissioner has determined the following competency standards after consultation with security industry representatives, the Property Services Industry Training Advisory Board, the Road Transport Industry Advisory Board, the NSW Vocational Training and Accreditation Board, unions, and training specialists.
The competency standards which will be required have been taken from the National Security Industry Competency Standards which were developed by the security industry in consultation with Australian Police Services, training specialists and government vocational training agencies.
The NSW legislation has adopted these standards in the interests of developing uniform standards in the industry which allow licences to be recognized across State and Territory boundaries.
The standards consist of units of competency. Each unit describes a discreet set of work activities which are performed by security guards, and the elements and performance criteria which are required to attain competency in that activity.
The new security industry legislation packages these units together to create minimum licensing standards within the industry.
Two levels of competency will be required under the new legislation for class 1 licensees.
Initially, licence applicants who apply for a licence post the commencement of the new legislation must show they have attained the minimum entry level competency standards.
Twelve months after this licence is granted, the licence holder must show that he/she has either completed the required 13 units of training from a licensed training provider, or that he/she has been assessed as having achieved competency in these units.
Training providers will be required to be registered with the NSW Vocational Training and Accreditation Board (VETAB), as well as licensed, and training courses must be accredited by VETAB.
Licence holders may either attend a course specifically designed to provide training in these competencies, or in the case of persons currently employed and experienced in the industry, obtain a certificate of competency from a vocational assessor stating that they have attained the required standard.
The competencies required under the new legislation will be as follows:
(Class 1 (a) (mobile/static guard)
initially: units 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 11, & 17.
after 12 months: units 1, 2, 3, 4,
S. 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 17, 18 & one elective unit.
Class 1 (b) (bodyguard)
initially: units 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, & 17.
after 12 months: units 2, 3, 4, 5,
6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 17, 18 & one elective unit
Class 1(c) (crowd controller)
initially: units 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 13, & 17.
after 12 months: units 2, 3, 4, 5,
6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 17, 18 & two elective units.
These units equate to the following areas of competency:
unit 1 - maintain the security of premises and property
unit 2 - control access to and exit from premises
unit 3 - maintain safety of premises and personnel
unit 4 - communicate in the workplace
unit 5 - manage conflict
unit 6 - maintain occupational health and safety
unit 7 - manage own performance
unit 8 - operate basic security equipment
unit 9 - apprehend offenders
unit 11 - escort and carry valuables
unit 12 - provide for safety of persons
unit 13 - control crowds
unit 17 - maintain an effective relationship with clients/customers
unit 18 - work as part of a security team
In addition to the above, all class 1 licence applicants will be required to show evidence of completion of a senior first aid course.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Guards who are involved in conducting mobile patrols will need to complete the following: Unit 23 - Operate security vehicle
Guards who are involved in handling dogs will need to complete the following unit of competency: Unit 24 - Manage dogs for security patrols
The minimum required competency standards for class 2 licensees are in the process of being determined following consultation with the industry and VETAB.
In addition, pursuant to clause 69 of the Firearms (General) Regulation 1997, security guards who wish to obtain a security guard's firearms licence will be required to show at they have passed the firearms safety test approved by the Commissioner, and that he/she has undertaken continuing firearms safety training at least every 12 months.
The NSW Police Service Security Industry Unit are currently consulting with firearms experts both within and outside the Police Service concerning the required competency standards for security guards in relation to firearms.
The following are
grounds for refusing a licence application and subsequently a
person nominated on this form would be deemed unsuitable if:
Prescribed offences for which an applicant must be disqualified are...
For the purpose of confirming identity, copies of a photographic NSW drivers licence, firearms licence or Security industry licence that is current or has expired within the last two years are acceptable.
If you cannot provide copies of such
documents refer to the RTA acceptable proof of identity documents
to meet their '100' point criteria for proof of identity.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How old do I have to be to enrol in
a course?
You must be 18 before you may be eligible to apply for a Security
Licence.
I was convicted of a criminal offence
a few years ago. Can I enrol in the course?
All applicants for security courses will
need to submit an "Authority
for Pre Training Criminal Record Check Form"
(available on-line
to Safecity customers. Please visit our customer
support site to obtain a password).
You will nor be able to start training until you receive a clearance from the NSW Police Security Industry Registry Unit. It is a good idea to lodge the form with us at least three weeks before commencing training. There is no charge for lodging a form or for the police clearance.
Alternatively, we can provide you this form when we receive your enrolment application.
Please do not call the NSW Police Security Industry Registry Unit or local Police about these issues. Please E-mail us (preferable) or phone us.
I was convicted of a traffic violation
will I be refused a licence?
Minor traffic offences should not be
a problem. Click here to see which offences would prevent you from obtaining a security
licence.
I have never committed an offence, do I still have to submit a pre-training criminal history check form? Yes. New regulations require all applicants to lodge a form.
Please do not attempt to conceal an offence. If you supply a false declaration this is what will happen:
I was dismissed or discharged from a police force, law enforcement or military organisation, do I have to submit a pre-training criminal history check form? Yes
I have difficulties reading and writing
or understanding English, can I enrol in this course?
The ability to read and write English
is a licensing prerequisite established by the NSW Police Security
Industry Unit and VETAB. If you are from a non-English speaking
background and your language comprehension is poor, or if you
have literacy difficulties we may be able to refer
you to an agency who will help you overcome your difficulties,
please contact Ms. S. Flinders, Safecity's Literacy Support Scheme
Co-ordinator.
Will this course be recognized nationally?
The course you study is accredited under
the AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework) and it is nationally
recognized. However, each state has its own licensing requirements.
When you complete this course you will be eligible to apply for
the NSW Conditional Security Licence. Safecity's Course
is also accredited with the ACT Registration Council. Under the
mutual recognition principle it is now possible to obtain a security
licence in most States if you are licensed in your own state.
How long is the course?
The entry level security program is 9
days. Monday to Saturday. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What certificates will I receive?
You will receive a Nationally Recognised
Statement of Attainment which will list the competencies you have
achieved.
What are the competencies I will achieve?
PRSSG01A - Maintain the security of premises
and property
PRSSG02A - Control access to and exit
from premises
PRSSG03A - Maintain Safety
PRSSG04A - Communicate in the Workplace
PRSSG05A - Manage conflict
PRSSG08A - Operate basic security equipment
PRSSG09A - Apprehend offenders
PRSSG011A - Escort and Carry Valuables
PRSSG012A - Provide for safety of persons
PRSSG013A - Control Crowds
PRSSG17A - Maintain effective relationship
with clients
PRSSG25A - Provide Emergency First Aid
THHBTHS04A - Manage intoxicated persons
The course will include Olympic awareness competencies
Will I be able to use these competencies
towards my full licence?
Yes. To obtain a full licence you
will need to complete some core and elective units. Our
Training Delivery Staff will advise you how to go about obtaining
a full licence.
Do you provide employment support
after the training?
Yes. As with all Safecity's customers
you will be given the opportunity to list your name with our job
support program. This includes listing with employers and
a placement in our graduates web site. This service is free of charge.
What are my opportunities for employment?
At present there is a strong demand for
licensed and well trained security officers. We also expect
a heavy demand during the new year period and during the Olympic
Games.
How do I apply
The following persons are encouraged
to undertake training:
I have difficulties reading and writing
or understanding English, can I enrol in this course?
Safecity has a Literacy Support Scheme in place for people
who have numeracy and literacy difficulties. Also if you are from
a non-English speaking background and your language comprehension
is poor you may need to undertake a language test before you may
enrol in the course. If you have a problem we may be able to help
you, please contact Ms. S. Flinders, Safecity's Literacy Support
Scheme Co-ordinator.
I have a certificate in Security from
another state. Can I obtain credits for my course?
Yes, provided your course is accredited under AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework) and approved by VETAB in NSW, Safecity
will give you a credit for the module you already studied. You
will not need to come to class when the module is being presented,
but you will still need to sit and pass the final assessment activity.
I am a licensed security officer in
another state. Can I claim exemption for some of the course modules?
If the course you studied was accredited under the AQF you
will receive credits. In some cases,
long term work experience will also be considered. In all cases
where you ask for exemption, you will be required to sit and pass
a pre-assessment test to determine whether you are familiar with
the new standards.
Will my course be recognized nationally?
The course you study is accredited under the AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework) and it is nationally recognized.
However, each state has its own licensing requirements. When you
complete our course you will be eligible to apply for the NSW
Security Licence. Safecity's Course is also accredited with
the ACT Registration Council. Under the mutual recognition principle
it is now possible to obtain a security licence in most States
if you are licensed in your own state.
What is the 1AB Security Licence?
This was the old licence system which was in force before the
new Security Industry Act 1997. This licensing system is
now being replaced by the new more efficient systems. In the state
of NSW all security officers hold a 1AB
security licence. 1A allows you to patrol, protect, watch
or guard any property. 1B is the
license required by body guards. In order to qualify for this
licence you must undertake a 2 day training program approved by
the Commissioner. This training system was
discontinued on the 1st of July 1998.
How long will it take before I get
my security licence?
Generally about 5 to 6 weeks.
How much does a Security Licence costs?
AU$350.00 for 5 years (you pay the fee when you apply for your
licence.) You may also apply for a yearly licence ($50 Application
Fee + $35 Licence Fee = $85.00 per year). For information about other
security licence and fees visit our customer
support site.
Do I need a Security Licence to work as a crowd controller in a pub or disco? Yes. In NSW it is illegal for you to do any kind of security work without a licence.
When I have my Security Licence can
I buy or carry a pistol?
No. Before you are allowed to carry a pistol, you must undertake
a Firearms Accreditation Course specific
for the firearms you will carry (revolver or semiauto). You will
not be able to purchase a pistol unless you have a Business Pistol
Licence or permit.
How do I find out if a Course Provider
is approved by the Police?
In NSW all Course Providers must be approved and registered
with VETAB and by the NSW Police Security Industry Unit. Under
the new Security Industry Act Course Providers must hold a Master
Licence and all Instructors must hold a Class 2 Licence. The Master Licence must be prominently displayed
and your Instructor must wear the Class 2D Licence during training.
If you are in doubt about your instructor qualifications
or if the instructor is not wearing his licence, contact the NSW
Police Security Industry Unit. There have
been many cases where students have lost their money by participating
in unauthorized courses.
How do I find out if a Course Provider
is registered with VETAB?
Always check with VETAB (in NSW) and VETA (in the ACT) before
booking a course. VETAB (NSW) phone number is 02-92445335, VETA
(ACT) phone number is 02-62057777
How do I find out if a Course Provider
is Nationally Accredited to conduct the course?
The National Training Information Service publishes a complete
listing of the Registered Training Organisations and of the courses
they are qualified to conduct. Check
the Register Now. If your course provider is not qualified to
conduct a course the certificate has no value whatsoever. Report
frauds to VETAB.
What learning environment can I expect
?
VETAB has strict standards which all Course Providers must
adhere. Course must be conducted in modern, clean and comfortable
classroom settings. Course may not be conducted in pubs, hotels,
private residences unless these premises have been approved by
VETAB. The general standard you can expect is similar to classroom
facilities provided by TAFE colleges or other professional training
organizations.
I phoned a training provider and they told me I can do the course by correspondence. VETAB has strict standards which all Course Providers must adhere. Courses may not be conducted by correspondence unless the provider has been given special permission by VETAB and the NSW Police. Before enrolling check with the NSW Police Security Industry Registry Unit. Report unauthorised training providers to NSW Police immediately.
The training provider charged me $150 for the Criminal History Check. Criminal history checks are free. If you are charged a fee for a criminal history check you are being defrauded. Report the training provider to the NSW Police Security Industry Unit.
The training provider told me I could do the full course in 2 or 4 or 6 days. VETAB requires that a course of this nature must be conducted over a minimum of 100 hours. The NSW Police Security Industry Unit have made it clear that training providers must not shorten the duration of the course. Some unethical trainers do this to cut costs. Lodge a report with VETAB and the NSW Police Security Industry Unit.
I attended a course. The training provider left us alone in the classroom and gave us a series of assignment. He came back hours later to pick up the work. Is this normal? Some unethical training providers are cheating their students. Your course should include plenty of role plays, use of security equipment, radios, metal detectors, report writing, dealing with intellectually challenged persons and much more. If your course did not provide you with these skills report this kind of behaviour to VETAB and to the NSW Police Security Industry Unit. Lodge a formal complaint and demand a refund.
During the course the instructor abused me and embarrassed me in front of the class. Unfortunately these type of instructors still exist. Do not stand for this kind of vilification or abuse. Leave the class immediately. Lodge a formal complaint with VETAB and the NSW Police Security Industry Unit. Lodge a complaint with the appropriate Association (the NSW Police Registry will tell you which Association you should contact.) If you are a member of NASPA lodge a complaint in writing with them.
I was told by a friend that I could get a Certificate without doing a course if I paid the instructor. Obtaining a certificate through deception and fraud is an offence and if you are caught you will be disqualified from holding a licence for 10 years. The chances of being caught are high. The NSW Police Security Industry Unit and VETAB will conduct spot checks on training providers to prevent this type of fraud from taking place. Besides sooner or later your lack of training will show up and you will lose the respect of employers and colleagues.
How do I recognize a professional Course Provider? Is the course accredited by VETAB? No? Look elsewhere.
Is the staff rude, arrogant and unhelpful? Treat this as a danger sign.
Look for quality course material. Ask about the course manual. A poor quality manual is a clear indication of a poor quality course.
Is the provider helpful and professional on the telephone? If not, look for another.
Where will the course be conducted? Courses conducted in backyards and inappropriate places reflect the attitude of the Course Provider.
Is your instructor dressed appropriately? A sloppy dress code is a danger sign.
Ask to view your instructor's credentials. Look for teaching experience as well as professional expertise. Professional instructors will relish the opportunity to show you their CV.
Will your Course Provider offer you free support after the course? All ethical Course Providers offer a free post graduation advisory service.
Is your Course Provider a member of NASPA? Membership to NASPA is not a compulsory requirement to become an instructor and there are many very good instructors who are not NASPA members. Instructors who hold NASPA's Security Industry Gold Card have signed an agreement to abide by a strict code of ethics. NASPA has a comprehensive Quality Assurance system which enables you to lodge complains. Members found to have wilfully breached the Code of Ethics are expelled from the Association.
What are my chances of getting a job
after I get my licence?
Most of our graduates start off doing part time work for local
security companies. With your qualifications and with your good
attitude you will soon become an asset to your employer. Many
of our trainees have landed good jobs within a year after completing
their course. Some have progressed rapidly to become supervisors,
or own their own business. Safecity has been conducting
Certificate II courses for the past 2 years. Most of our students
hold good jobs. In all cases you must be employed by the holder
of a Master Licence.
What should I look for when looking
for employment?
All employers of security officers and
consultants in NSW must hold a Master Licence and be members of
an Approved Security Industry Association.
The Master Licence and the Membership must be prominently displayed
in the principal place of work.
Avoid backyard and unprofessional operators. Seek work only with reputable companies. The size of an employer is not necessarily an indication. Look for professional work practises and good attitude towards the clients.
AGREE TO WORK FOR A SECURITY BUSINESS THAT DOES NOT CARRY A MASTER LICENCE OR AN INSURANCE POLICY. In the event of an accident you will be liable for all damages, including court costs. Additionally, do not agree to work for CASH IN HAND or scams involving "subcontractor" type arrangements.
Whilst some of these arrangements
may be genuine, in most cases these type of employers will
cheat you of correct pay and conditions. Check with the
Department of Industrial Relations (131628) and the Taxation Office
(132866) and report employers who approach you with such offers.
Visit NASPA's site and view a listing of NASPA
Security Industry Gold Card Members
My employer said he wants me to work
as a subcontractor.
To work as a subcontractor you must hold
a Master Licence. Be very careful because in most cases Revenue
Authorities will not accept this type of arrangement.
If you want to work as a subcontractor you should contact your accountant who will advise you how to set up a business or company.
Also check with the Department of Industrial Relations (131628) and the Taxation Office (132866) about the legality of the arrangement--you may be in for surprises.
If you are a member of NASPA contact them on 02-63355226 or send them an E-mail.
If you are a genuinely interested in starting a security company you should also contact NASPA (The National Australian Security Providers Association NASPA P/L).
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The contents of this Security
Training Website are no longer valid after the 30th of June 2004.
|
