Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Static guards are assigned to a single location for extended periods, maintaining a visible security presence at one site. Mobile patrol officers travel between multiple locations to conduct security checks. Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016), both roles are classified based on their duties and level of responsibility.

Question 2

What award covers static guards in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Static 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 the security services industry. Always verify which award applies to your specific security business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a static guard?

Accepted Answer

Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, static guards typically start at Security Employee Level 1 (basic security services). Level 2 applies to security employees with additional responsibilities or specialized duties. Higher levels apply for team leaders and control room operators. See our Security Services Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a static 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 qualifications do static guards need?

Accepted Answer

All static guards must hold a current Security Licence (Class 1A) issued by their state or territory licensing authority. This requires completion of Certificate II in Security Operations (CPP20218) and a national police check. First Aid certification and previous security experience are highly valued by employers. Use HR software to track licence renewals and certifications.

Question 6

Do static guards need a security licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a current security licence is mandatory for all static guard positions in Australia. Each state and territory has its own licensing authority. The licence must be maintained throughout employment and renewed before expiry. Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a static guard?

Accepted Answer

For entry-level positions, a valid security licence and professional attitude are most important. For experienced roles, look for previous static security experience in similar environments, strong customer service skills, proven reliability and punctuality, and experience with access control systems and incident reporting.

Question 8

Can I hire static guards without experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many static guard positions are suitable for newly licensed security professionals. While they must hold a valid security licence, on-the-job training in site-specific procedures, equipment operation and emergency protocols is typically provided. A professional demeanor and reliability are more important than extensive experience for many roles.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent static guards?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your contract structure and client requirements. Permanent staff provide consistency and reliability for long-term security contracts, while casuals offer flexibility for variable shifts and relief 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 static guards?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for static guards?

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 for static guards are often 8-12 hours depending on client requirements. Check the award for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a static 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, and security licence verification. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to static 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 ensure compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts.

Question 14

Can I require static guards to work at multiple sites?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but static guards are typically assigned to one location for consistency and familiarity with site-specific procedures. If requiring work at multiple sites, ensure clear communication about locations, provide adequate handover time, and consider whether mobile patrol classification is more appropriate. Travel time between sites must be paid.

Question 15

What breaks are static 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 static guards on long shifts (8-12 hours), proper break planning is essential. Use break planning tools to manage breaks effectively.

Question 16

How do I schedule static guards efficiently?

Accepted Answer

Schedule based on site access requirements and client contracts, ensure consistent officers at each site for familiarity, plan adequate handovers between shifts, and account for licence verification and uniform checks. Consider 24/7 coverage needs and balance day/night shifts fairly. Use rostering software to manage complex shift patterns.

Static guard job description