Join Airport Security In Australia: Steps To Take

If you're interested in becoming an airport security officer in Australia, there are a few steps you need to take. Firstly, you'll need to complete a Certificate II in Security Operations, which is required to obtain your security guard licence. This course can be completed through a face-to-face workshop or online learning, and will provide you with the necessary skills to work as a security guard. You will then need to apply for an unarmed security guard licence from the Office of Fair Trading, which may take a few weeks to process. To work specifically in airport security, you will also need to obtain a Job Ready ASIC, which is a clearance card for working at the airport. Finally, you can enrol in a Certificate II in Transport Security Protection, which will provide you with specialist skills for working in airport security. With these qualifications, you'll be well on your way to a career in airport security in Australia.

Qualifications and experience needed

To become an airport security officer in Australia, you will need to complete some qualifications and meet certain requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Firstly, you must be at least 18 years old and an Australian citizen. You will also need to hold a valid full or provisional driver's licence and meet the character standards set out by the Australian Federal Police (AFP). In addition, you should have received two primary doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine or one dose of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. Current first aid and CPR certifications are also required, as well as the ability to swim 100 metres freestyle.

To become an airport security screening officer, you will need to complete a Certificate II in Security Operations. This course will provide you with the necessary knowledge to become a qualified security guard and obtain your security guard licence. The course takes eight days to complete through a face-to-face workshop or online learning.

The next step is to apply for an unarmed security guard licence from the Office of Fair Trading. This process can take around 4-6 weeks to complete. Following this, you will need to obtain a Job Ready ASIC, which is a clearance card for working at the airport. This application will cost you $167.20, and you should allow a couple of weeks for processing.

Once you have your ASIC, you can enrol in the Certificate II in Transport Security Protection. This course will provide you with specialist skills specific to airport security and includes a 5-day workshop and online learning components.

If you are interested in working as an airport security guard, you will need to be licensed as a security guard in the state or territory where the airport is located. For example, in Queensland, this means obtaining a licence under the Security Providers Act 1993 (SPA). It is important to ensure you meet the licensing requirements for the specific state or territory in which you intend to work.

Additional Skills and Attributes:

While not always necessary, having previous experience in security or a related field can be advantageous. Good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are also important attributes for a career in airport security.

Training and Development:

Once you have obtained the necessary qualifications and licensing, you may want to explore additional training opportunities to enhance your employability. For example, you could consider a 3-week training course to become a Rapid Appraisal Officer (RAO), specialising in evacuation advice and the search for bombs and hazardous items.

Employment Opportunities:

With your qualifications and licensing in place, you can start applying for airport security jobs. Keep an eye on job portals, such as those advertised by the AFP, and don't be afraid to reach out to security companies directly to enquire about potential vacancies.

Required security licences

The security licences required to become an airport screening officer in Australia vary depending on the state or territory in which the airport is located.

Under the Aviation Transport Security Act 2004 (ATSA), there are two primary categories of security personnel authorised to carry out security work at a listed security-controlled airport: airport screening officers and airport security guards.

Airport screening officers are employed to work in specially designated areas, operating luggage and body scanning equipment. This role does not require a licence under the Security Providers Act 1993 (SPA).

On the other hand, airport security guards are required to be licensed as security guards under the SPA in the state or territory the airport is located within. For example, in Queensland, airport security guards must be licensed under the SPA, which is administered by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

It is important to note that if a screening officer undertakes additional duties typically performed by a security guard, they must obtain an SPA licence from the OFT.

To obtain a security guard licence, individuals must complete the Certificate II in Security Operations, which can be done through a face-to-face workshop or online learning. This course provides the necessary qualifications to work as a security guard and typically takes eight days to complete. After completing the course, individuals can apply for an unarmed security guard licence by submitting an application to the Office of Fair Trading, which usually takes around 4-6 weeks to process.

Additionally, individuals seeking to work in airport security may need to obtain a Job Ready ASIC, which is a clearance card for working at the airport. This involves submitting an application and paying the associated fee. The entire process, including obtaining the necessary qualifications and licences, can take up to three months.

Job applications and career progression

Education and Qualifications

Complete Certificate II in Security Operations. This is an essential course to obtain your security guard licence and work as a security guard. It takes eight days to complete in a face-to-face workshop and is offered at various locations or through training partners across the country.

Security Guard Licence

Once you have completed the Certificate II in Security Operations, apply for an unarmed security guard licence from the Office of Fair Trading. This process can take around 4-6 weeks to complete.

Job Ready ASIC

Obtain a Job Ready ASIC (Aviation Security Identification Card) by filling out an application and paying the associated fee. This process typically takes a couple of weeks. The ASIC is a mandatory clearance card for working at the airport.

Certificate II in Transport Security Protection

Enroll in and complete this course, which includes a 5-day face-to-face workshop and online learning. From June 16, 2021, new airport screening officers need to hold this certificate to gain specialist skills for the job.

Job Applications

With the required qualifications and licences, you can now apply for airport screening officer positions. Keep an eye on job portals of specific airports or security companies that have contracts with airports, such as ISS (serving Brisbane and the Gold Coast airports).

Career Progression

As an airport screening officer, you will have various opportunities for career growth and skill enhancement. You can work in different locations within the airport, interact with diverse colleagues and passengers, and gain experience in primary screening, checked baggage screening, freight screening, and training new staff. Additionally, companies like ASSET offer employment support to their graduates, providing interview tips, resume help, and connections with major security companies.

Daily tasks and responsibilities

• Patrolling the airport grounds
• Conducting on-board security
• Screening people, vehicles, and goods for prohibited items and weapons, both when entering a secure zone and boarding an aircraft
• Physically restraining and removing people from airports
• Conducting general security-related functions within public terminals
• Operating luggage and body scanning equipment
• Performing regular patrols
• Investigating minor criminal matters
• Taking reports and making arrests
• Helping the airport community
• Acting as first responders in acts of terrorism or other emergency incidents
• Detecting firearms and explosives
• Deterring acts of terrorism
• Collecting and analysing aviation intelligence
• Targeting serious and organised crime involving aviation, including the carrying of drugs or weapons

There are two primary categories of security personnel authorised to perform security work at a listed security-controlled airport: airport screening officers and airport security guards. Airport screening officers are employed to work in specially designated areas, operating luggage and body scanning equipment. Airport security guards, on the other hand, conduct a range of security functions unrelated to screening.

Benefits and conditions of the role

The benefits and conditions of working in airport security in Australia vary depending on the specific role and the company. Here are some general benefits and conditions that you can expect:

• Salary and Compensation: Airport security officers in Australia typically earn an average wage of between $22 and $29 per hour. Some companies may offer higher salaries or additional benefits, such as subsidised accommodation and sports club memberships.
• Career Progression: There are often opportunities for career progression within the field of airport security. For example, at the Australian Federal Police (AFP), team members in Aviation Operations can progress through the ranks from constable to sergeant and inspector.
• Training and Development: Airport security companies may offer training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and qualifications. For instance, the Certificate II in Security Operations and the Certificate II in Transport Security Protection are commonly required for airport security roles.
• Work Location and Environment: Airport security officers typically work at airports, which can be exciting and dynamic work environments. You may have the opportunity to work in different locations within the airport, interact with diverse colleagues, and meet new people regularly.
• Job Satisfaction: Working in airport security can be a rewarding career, as you play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of travellers, airport staff, and the general public. Your work directly contributes to the smooth operation of air travel and helps protect Australia's national security.
• Physical Fitness: Maintaining a good level of physical fitness is essential for airport security roles, as you may need to respond to immediate incidents at short notice. This aspect of the job can be considered a benefit for those who enjoy staying active and fit.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Airport security often involves working as part of a team, collaborating with colleagues, airport staff, and law enforcement officials. This collaborative environment can foster teamwork, camaraderie, and a sense of shared purpose.
• Licensing and Certification: Obtaining the necessary licences and certifications, such as the Security Industry Authority (SIA) frontline licence and the security guard licence, are crucial steps in becoming an airport security officer. These licences and certifications can enhance your employability and open up career opportunities in the security industry.
• Work-Life Balance: Airport security roles may offer flexible work arrangements, including part-time and full-time options. Additionally, some companies provide annual and personal leave accrual, allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

It is important to note that the specific benefits and conditions may vary depending on the airport, the security company, and the individual's role and experience level. When considering a career in airport security, be sure to research the particular benefits and conditions offered by the organisation you are interested in joining.

Frequently asked questions