Currently, the Security Industry Act 1997 (the Act) and Regulation only cover crowd controller functions if they are carried on at a licensed premise, a public entertainment venue, or at a place at which a public or private event or function is held.
A review of the crowd controller definition identified some people are employed to undertake crowd controller‑like functions at other premises such as hospitals, quarantine facilities, retail premises and public places such as taxi ranks. These people currently fall outside the definition of crowd controller and may not require a security licence. However, in carrying on these activities, they pose the same risks as those who are required to be licensed.
The changes mean that people carrying on a crowd controller function for remuneration at a relevant place as part of their regular duties, including at a hospital, quarantine facility, retail premises or a public space, will be required to hold a class 1A (Security Officer) licence. A definition of relevant place has been included in the legislation for clarity.