Raising Professional Standards in Security

The Victorian Police Minister, the Hon Lisa Neville, announced the government had agreed to adopt all 21 recommendations arising from the recent review of Victoria's Private Security Licensing Scheme.

The recent review of Victoria’s Private Security Licensing scheme by the Victorian Government was aimed at raising professional standards and improving access to fair pay and conditions for workers.

 On Wednesday 15 Dec 2021, the Police Minister, The Hon. Lisa Neville announced the government had agreed to adopt all 21 recommendations over the next three years.

 The review found major gaps in the training of security personnel, many who are employed by labour-hire companies, without understanding the key requirements of the job are being hired to perform.

 Licensing and Regulation Division (LRD) will be allocated additional staff to monitor businesses registered to train security guards. Furthermore, LRD will conduct random visits to review teaching standards and the assessment process. With Victoria’s borders starting to reopen the practice of employing overseas students as security guards will also face additional scrutiny. A new phone line and website will be established to handle complaints, while employers will face stricter rules to stop them from avoiding workplace responsibilities and underpaying workers through subcontracting and sham contracting.

 ASIS Victoria welcomes today’s announcement by the Minister and will continue to advocate on behalf of its members and industry for improvements to the industry.

 More information is available through the LRD and Department of Justice and Community Safety websites.

Links: (Private Security Act 2004) (Private Security Regulations 2016)