Applying for an Unarmed Security Officer Licence?
The Procedure for Obtaining a QLD Security Licence
Here at AWDI Training, we often receive inquiries about the security guard licence application from individuals considering enrolling in a security course. Licensing processes can seem daunting if you're unfamiliar with the requirements, and they can also differ from one state to another. Like any licensing process, there are official steps and channels that you must navigate.
We've compiled all the essential information you need to understand the process for obtaining your security guard licence in Queensland.
The Office of Fair Trading, Queensland is the licensing body who process security licence applications and subsequently issues security licences in QLD.
Step 1. Check your eligibility to obtain a Queensland Security Providers Licence
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a security licence in Qld?
To be eligible for the Security Provider License Class 1, you must be at least 18 years old, and have completed the required security training course(Currently, CPP20218, Certificate II in Security Operations which includes the First Aid course, HLTAID011, Provide First Aid).
Additionally, you must not pose a risk to public safety, meaning you should not have been convicted of a disqualifying offense within the past ten years where a conviction was recorded.
Be a citizen or permanent resident, or hold a Visa with appropriate work rights in Australia.
Step 2. Complete the course required to get your security license in Qld.
The Certificate II in Security Operations, is Brisbane's most highly sought-after security course, as this is the security course required to get a security licence in QLD. Cert 2 in Security provides a realistic experience of the responsibilities of a security officer including legal and procedural requirements, crowd control requirements, security unarmed and monitoring.
AWDI is proud to offer Certificate II in Security Operations. (We are also proud to be a Queensland Government's Skills Assured Supplier, and offer the Certificate II in Security Operations under the Certificate 3 Guarantee program to eligible learners, see here for eligibility requirements.)
The security course consists of the following 14 core units of competency:
| Core units | |
| CPPSEC2101 | Apply effective communication skills to maintain security |
| CPPSEC2102 | Apply legal and procedural requirements to work effectively within a security team |
| CPPSEC2103 | Apply WHS, emergency response and evacuation procedures to maintain security |
| CPPSEC2104 | Apply risk assessment to select and carry out response to security risk situations |
| CPPSEC2105 | Provide quality services to a range of security clients |
| CPPSEC2106 | Protect self and others using basic defensive techniques |
| CPPSEC2107 | Patrol premises to monitor property and maintain security |
| CPPSEC2108 | Screen people, personal effects and items to maintain security |
| CPPSEC2109 | Monitor and control access and exit of persons and vehicles from premises |
| CPPSEC2110 | Monitor and control individual and crowd behaviour to maintain security |
| CPPSEC2111 | Apply security procedures to manage intoxicated persons |
| CPPSEC2112 | Apply security procedures to remove persons from premises |
| CPPSEC2113 | Escort and protect persons and valuables |
| HLTAID011 | Provide first aid |
Upon successful completion of the Certificate II in Security Operations from a registered training organisation, you will receive your qualifications, and then can you begin the application process for your security guard licence.
Step 3. Complete your security licence application.
Which Application Form to Complete?
The specific form you need to fill out to apply for your unarmed security officer licence is the "Application for Security Provider License Class 1." The Security Provider License Class 1 is required for security providers in roles such as in-house security officer, loss prevention officer, or security gate officer, which involve unarmed security, crowd control, and monitoring.
An application form can be found here.
What Documentation Is Required for the Application?
To apply for your unarmed security guard licence, you will need the following documents:
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Copies of your certificates for security training and first aid training.
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Identification documents.
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Passport-sized photos.
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Meeting the eligibility requirements.
International Student Visa Course Requirements
For individuals holding Student and Study visas who intend to apply for a Queensland security licence, it is essential to verify that the training institution you choose for your training is CRICOS registered. This requirement also extends to the refresher training modules necessary for crowd controllers and/or bodyguards.
Please be aware that each specific unit of competency must be completed through a training provider that holds CRICOS registration. Training certificates issued by CRICOS registered training providers, which result from credit transfers, will not be considered valid for this purpose.
What Documentation Is Needed for Application Submission?
When submitting your unarmed security guard licence application, you must provide 100 points of formal identification. These documents must be either original if you're applying in person or certified copies if you're mailing your application. We strongly recommend submitting your application in person.
You will need to include at least one of the following:
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Birth certificate or Extract.
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Passport.
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ImmiCard.
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Driver's License.
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Photo identification card.
What Are the Application Costs For A Security Provider Licence?
The cost of lodging your security licence application depends on the options you select on your form. There are two main choices for those who have completed Certificate II in Security Operations: unrestricted single function and unrestricted multiple function.
The application fees will vary based on your selection and are subject to change. Graduates of courses at AWDI Training can apply for an unrestricted licence with multiple functions. You will be eligible to apply for a Crowd Controller licence, Security Officer/Security Officer Unarmed and Security Officer Monitoring licences.
Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee for the mandatory criminal history check, and the mandatory fingerprinting fee. It is unnecessary to conduct a criminal history check before submitting your licence application, as the Office of Fair Trading will perform a separate check.
The schedule of fees can be seen here.
How Long Does the Process Take To Complete In Queensland?
Once you submit your application forms, the Office of Fair Trading will process them and contact you to schedule your fingerprinting appointment after completing your criminal history check. It's important to note that fingerprinting can only be done at specific police stations, so refer to the documentation provided by the Office of Fair Trading to confirm the locations.
The entire process can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 months to complete, depending on the backlog of applications at the Office of Fair Trading and the complexity of your criminal history check. For instance, if you're not an Australian citizen, the process may take longer. New Zealand citizens should obtain a copy of their criminal history from New Zealand as soon as possible, as it will be required for their security licence application.
Is There Further Information You Should Be Aware Of?
When you secure a position as a crowd controller in Brisbane, Queensland, you must undergo refresher training every three years for additional training. AWDI can assist you in acquiring certifications for CPPSEC3101 Manage conflict and security risks through negotiation, CPPSEC3121 Control persons using empty hand techniques and HLTAID014 Provide advance first aid.
