Question 1

What does a security guard do in Australia?

Accepted Answer

A security guard protects property, assets and people by monitoring premises, controlling access, conducting patrols and responding to security incidents. Security guards work in various environments including commercial buildings, retail centres, events, construction sites and industrial facilities. Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016), security guards are classified based on their duties and level of responsibility.

Question 2

What award covers security guards in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Security guards 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 security guard?

Accepted Answer

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, security guards typically start at Level 1 (Security Officer Grade 1). Level 2 applies to guards with additional responsibilities such as control room operations or senior patrol duties. Higher levels apply for supervisors and specialized roles. See our Security Services Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a security guard 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 licence do security guards need in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Security guards must hold a valid security licence issued by the relevant state or territory authority. In NSW, this is a Class 1A (unarmed guard) licence. In Victoria, it is a Security Guard licence. Each state has different requirements and licensing authorities. Licences require completion of an approved training course (typically Certificate II in Security Operations) and a police check. Use HR software to track licence expiry dates and support compliance.

Question 6

How long does it take to get a security licence?

Accepted Answer

Obtaining a security licence typically takes 2-6 weeks depending on your state and how quickly you complete the required training and police check. The Certificate II in Security Operations can be completed in 1-2 weeks through intensive courses. Police checks usually take 1-2 weeks. Some states have additional processing times for licence applications.

Question 7

Do security guards need First Aid certification?

Accepted Answer

While not always mandatory, First Aid certification is highly valued and often required by clients, especially for sites where security guards may be the first responders to medical emergencies. Many employers require or prefer candidates with current First Aid and CPR certificates.

Question 8

What other certifications are useful for security guards?

Accepted Answer

Additional certifications that enhance employability include: RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) for licensed venues, crowd control certification for event security, fire safety training, conflict management qualifications, and specialized training in CCTV systems or alarm monitoring.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent security guards?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your service contracts and staffing needs. Permanent staff provide consistency for long-term contracts, while casuals offer flexibility for event security, relief shifts and variable workload. Many security companies use a mix of both. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to security guards?

Accepted Answer

Penalty rates under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and night shifts. Security work often involves shift work and weekend duties, so penalty rates are common. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for security guards?

Accepted Answer

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, minimum engagement periods apply — typically 3 hours for part-time and casual employees. However, actual shift lengths vary widely depending on site requirements, with many security shifts being 8-12 hours. Check the award for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a security guard 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, work locations and sites, shift patterns and hours, uniform requirements, licence verification, and site-specific security clearances. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to security guards?

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 upcoming shifts.

Question 14

Can I require security guards to work different sites?

Accepted Answer

Yes, multi-site security work is common in the industry. Ensure you clearly communicate site rotation expectations in the job description and consider travel time and distance between locations. Some contracts may require mobile patrol officers who travel between multiple sites during a single shift.

Question 15

What breaks are security guards 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 lone worker sites, break arrangements must ensure continuous security coverage. Use break planning tools to manage breaks effectively.

Question 16

How do I schedule security guards efficiently?

Accepted Answer

Schedule security staff based on site requirements (24/7 coverage, business hours, event times), match experienced guards with high-responsibility sites, and ensure adequate handover time between shifts. Consider guard preferences for night shifts or weekends where possible. Use rostering software to improve schedules and ensure coverage.

Security guard job description