Question 1

What is the difference between a mobile patrol officer and a static security guard?

Accepted Answer

Mobile patrol officers drive between multiple sites conducting security checks and responding to incidents, while static security guards remain at one fixed location. Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016), mobile patrol officers require a valid driver's licence and reliable vehicle, and typically work independently across multiple client premises.

Question 2

What award covers mobile patrol officers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Mobile patrol officers are covered by the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working in security services. Always verify which award applies to your specific security business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a mobile patrol officer?

Accepted Answer

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, mobile patrol officers are typically classified at Level 3 due to the independent nature of the work and vehicle requirements. Classification depends on duties, responsibilities and qualifications. See our Security Services Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a mobile patrol officer job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive rates based on experience.' Check the Security Services Industry Award 2020 for current rates.

Question 5

What qualifications do mobile patrol officers need?

Accepted Answer

Mobile patrol officers must hold a current Security Licence (Class 1G or equivalent in their state) and a valid driver's licence with a clean driving record. Most positions also require a National Police Check, First Aid certificate, and access to a reliable vehicle. Some employers may provide vehicles. Use HR software to track licence expiry dates and qualifications.

Question 6

Do mobile patrol officers need special licences?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mobile patrol officers must hold a current security licence issued by their state or territory (e.g., Class 1G in Victoria, Class 1 in NSW). They also require a valid driver's licence. Additional qualifications such as First Aid certification and CPR training are typically required or strongly preferred.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a mobile patrol officer?

Accepted Answer

Look for candidates with previous security experience, particularly in mobile patrol or alarm response roles. Strong navigation skills, knowledge of local areas, experience with security systems and incident reporting, and proven ability to work independently are valuable. A clean driving record is essential.

Question 8

Can I hire mobile patrol officers without security experience?

Accepted Answer

While candidates must hold a valid security licence (which requires basic training), prior mobile patrol experience is not always required. Many security companies provide on-the-job training for route familiarization, client site procedures, and reporting systems. However, candidates must demonstrate reliability and strong independent work skills.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent mobile patrol officers?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your service contracts and operational needs. Permanent staff provide consistency for regular patrol routes and client relationships, while casuals offer flexibility for peak periods and holiday coverage. Many security companies use a mix of both. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to mobile patrol officers?

Accepted Answer

Penalty rates under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, evening shifts (after 6pm), and night shifts. Mobile patrol work commonly occurs outside business hours, so penalty rates are frequent. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for mobile patrol officers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, minimum engagement periods apply — typically 2 hours for casual employees and 4 hours for part-time employees. However, actual shift lengths depend on patrol routes and client requirements. Mobile patrol shifts commonly range from 4-12 hours.

Question 12

What should I include in a mobile patrol officer employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, patrol areas and client sites, shift patterns and hours, vehicle requirements (own or company-provided), uniform and equipment requirements, and security licence details. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to mobile patrol officers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance for part-time employees. Changes within this period require employee agreement. For casual employees, reasonable notice should be provided. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of their patrol schedules.

Question 14

Can I require mobile patrol officers to use their own vehicles?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many mobile patrol positions require officers to use their own reliable vehicle. If requiring private vehicles, you should provide vehicle allowances or kilometre reimbursement in accordance with the Security Services Industry Award 2020 or your company policy. Clearly communicate vehicle requirements and compensation in the job description.

Question 15

What breaks are mobile patrol officers entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. For mobile patrol officers working alone, breaks should be planned to ensure sites are not left unattended during scheduled patrol times. Use break planning tools to manage breaks effectively.

Question 16

How do I schedule mobile patrol officers efficiently?

Accepted Answer

Schedule patrol officers based on client contracted patrol times, group nearby sites to minimise travel time, and ensure adequate time for each site inspection. Build in buffer time for alarm responses and incident handling. Use rostering software to improve patrol routes and ensure all contracted sites are covered.

Mobile patrol officer job description