Frequently Asked Questions

Can a person under 18 years be granted a Security Licence?

You may undertake training through a Registered Training Organisation if you have not been convicted of a disqualifying offence, however you will not be issued with a security licence until you are 18 years of age.

How do I find a Security Industry trainer who has been authorised by the Commissioner?  How do I know if they have been authorised?

Only Registered Training Organisations approved by the Commissioner may provide training for licensing purposes.  A complete up to date list is available on this website at "Approved Registered Training Organisations". 

Where can I pick up an application form for a new licence?

Application forms for licences are available from the Security Industry Registry or you can access and download the relevant forms from this site.  If you are a current licence holder, you will receive a form in the post approximately 6 to 8 weeks prior to the expiry of your current licence.

I want to talk to someone personally about my application.  Where do I go?

Applicants can contact the Registry by phone (1300 362 001), fax (1300 362 066) or email ( sir@police.nsw.gov.au ).  The Registry does not provide counter services.  Applications and payments will only be accepted by post.

What is the term of my licence?

Class 1 and Class 2 licences are available for a one or five-year period, unless suspended or revoked during the licence period.  Provisional licences are issued for a period of 1 year initially. Master licences are issued for a period of five years.

Do I have to supply references when I submit my application?  What information is needed?

Yes.  All applicants for Provisional, Class 1 and 2 licences are required to attach two written character references to their application form.  The references should be no more than 12 months old, be written by an approved class of person that has known you for at least 12 months, confirms that you have been known to the referee and must state that you are of proper and fit character to work within the security industry. For more detailed information refer to the Fact Sheet on this website "New Character Reference Requirements".

In addition, when reapplying, current licence holders must provide a statement of employment that outlines periods of security employment and the nature of duties undertaken during the term of the previous licence.

What do I need to provide to prove that I am a permanent Australian resident?

All licence applicants must be permanent Australian residents.  When you submit your application you must include one of the following documents in support of your residency status.  NO OTHER DOCUMENTS ARE ACCEPTABLE.

•  Certified copy of an Australian Birth Certificate
•  Certificate of Australian Citizenship
•  Certificate of Evidence of Resident Status available from the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs.
• A copy of your passport clearly showing the passport number and the country of issue

In the case of New Zealand nationals, the requirements are:

• Certified copy of applicant's passport, clearly showing passport number, name and date of birth, issue and expiry date, photograph, etc, and
• Certified copy of visa page clearly showing Immigration Australia stamp with date of arrival in Australia.

Copies of documents must be endorsed by a Justice of the Peace indicating that they are a true copy of the original.

How much money do I send with my application?

The full licence fee is to be sent to the Security Industry Registry together with your completed application form. (Refer to "Schedule of Fees")

What happens if I send my application form without all of the relevant information?

Incomplete applications will not be accepted and will be returned to you.  The Registry will not commence to process your application until it is completed and accompanied by the correct fee.  It is your responsibility to ensure that you have provided all necessary information set out in the checklist of your application form.  You should note that you are not permitted to work in the industry until you have obtained your licence.

How long after I send in my application will I get my licence?

If you have correctly completed your application form and there is no criminal history recorded against you, you may expect to receive your "Photograph Advice" within 20 working days of having your fingerprints taken.  If there is a requirement for further investigation, delays may be experienced and the 20 working days time extended.

Must I wear my Photo Licence?

Yes.  The photo licence must be worn and clearly visible at all times when carrying on a security activity unless a written exemption has been granted the Commissioner. Applications for exemptions will only be considered from Master Licence holders who can demonstrate their employees are engaged in loss prevention, transport of cash and/or valuables and in some cases for close personal protection duties whilst in plain clothes for covert reasons.

What happens if I lose my photo licence?

If you have lost your licence you should report the loss immediately to the Police Assistance Line (PAL), phone number 131444 and obtain the Event (reference) number.  As you are unable to work without displaying your licence, you should contact the Registry to discuss arrangements for the replacement of your licence.

I have recently moved, how do I inform you of my change of address?

The Security Industry Registry MUST be notified of your new address within 14 days of moving.  Your new address details will only be accepted in writing.  You can either send the address and telephone particulars by post, send a fax to the Registry on 1300 362 066, or submit the information by email to sir@police.nsw.gov.au .

How do I alter the personal details shown on my licence (other than change of address)?  Is there any charge for this?

You must notify the Registry, in writing, of your change of details and send this, together with your payment of $65, to the Security Industry Registry.  For Provisional, Class 1 and 2 licences, a 'Photograph Advice' will be sent to you, which should be taken to the RTA to obtain a new licence.

I have had my 5 year licence for 6 months but I do not wish to work in the Security Industry again.  Am I entitled to a refund?

No.

I need to carry a handgun for my employment.  Where can I get further information about this?

The licensing requirements for armed security operatives are outlined on this website, however, it is suggested you contact the Registry on 1300 362 001.

If I hold a Master Licence for my business, do I require Class 1 or 2 licences to carry out security activities?

Yes.  A Master Licence is for the business only and allows you to provide persons to carry out security activities.  If you are a Sole Trader (ie. you do not employ staff) you must hold both a Master Licence and the appropriate individual licence/s.

As a Master Licence holder, what Approved Industry Organisation should I belong to?

Membership of an approved Organisation is a condition of your licence but there are some organisations that may not accept you for membership, eg. The Master Locksmiths Association and the Locksmiths Guild may only provide membership to locksmiths; The Australian Hotels Association will only grant membership if you own a hotel; The Australian Retailers Association, if you are a retailer.  Other associations may provide membership for a broader area, including all of the above.  You should ensure that whatever organisation you join will provide you with the services you need to run your business professionally and in accordance with the "Security Industry Code of Practice".

The approved organisations are:

• Australia and New Zealand Locksmiths Association Ltd (ANZLA)
• Building Service Contractors Association of Australia (BSCAA)
• Australian Hotels Association (AHA)
• Australian Retailers Association NSW (ARA)
• Australian Security Industry Association Ltd. (ASIAL)
• Institute of Security Executives (ISE)
• Locksmiths Guild of Australia Inc. NSW (LGA)
• Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia Ltd. (MLAA)
• National Electrical Contractors Association NSW Chapter (NECA)
• Motor Traders Association of New South Wales (MTA)

I hold a Master Licence. How do I upgrade it if I wish to employ more staff?

A written request, on company or business letterhead, to upgrade from the existing category to the new required category must be submitted to the Registry. The fee for the upgrade is the difference (as per the "Schedule of Fees") between the old or current licence category and the new category.

The down-grade of a master licence should be requested in the same manner and will attract a fee of $65 for production of a new licence. (Please note: No refund is payable for the unexpired term of the original licence). 

What will happen to my licence fee if I withdraw my application?

The Security Industry Registry will retain a $65.00 administration fee and the remainder of the licence fee will be refunded, provided that your application is withdrawn prior to your licence being issued.

I have a security licence in another state of Australia .  Do I need a licence in New South Wales ?

Yes. If you have a licence in another state or New Zealand, you are eligible to apply for a licence in New South Wales under 'Mutual Recognition' laws, provided the licence authorises you to perform the equivalent activities.  For further information, you should contact the Registry.