
Security

The security industry keeps people, property and information safe across Australia, from local shopping centres to major infrastructure sites. Jobs and Skills Australia counts more than 66,800 people working as security officers and guards nationally. The job grows by around 2,600 roles a year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2026). The work spans foot and mobile patrols, crowd control, cash-in-transit duties, corporate security and investigations for both government and private clients.
Most people start with a certificate II-level security course, which builds the core skills needed to apply for a state security licence. Many then move into supervisory or risk-focused roles. They do this by studying a Certificate IV in Security Risk Analysis or a Certificate IV in Security Management. Both add skills in risk checks, incident reports and team supervision.
People who want senior consulting or operations roles often move on to a Diploma of Security Risk Management. This level of study suits those who already have industry experience and want formal proof of their planning and leadership skills. Some certificate-level courses also draw government support, including Free TAFE and other funded places in eligible states.
Every state and territory runs its own security licensing rules. Training providers should hold current sign-off from the Australian Skills Quality Authority before you enrol. Checking this early saves wasted time and money on a course that will not meet your state’s licence rules.
Core certifications include a certificate II-level course for entry-level guards and a certificate III or IV for supervisory or risk-focused roles. Higher-level roles may also call for first aid or crowd control training.
Yes. Many people enter the industry with no prior experience by finishing the required course and getting a state security licence. It is one of the few fields where you can train and start work within a month.
Jobs and Skills Australia reports a median weekly wage of $1,818 for security officers and guards in 2026. That is close to $94,500 a year for full-time work, and overtime or weekend shifts often add more.
Yes. Demand stays strong across shopping centres, building sites, corporate offices and public events. Many businesses now need licensed security staff to meet insurance or legal rules.
Check that your training provider is registered with ASQA. Make sure the course meets your state’s licence rules and covers the hands-on tests your qualification needs.
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