Advantages of updating your qualifications
We are often asked: “Why do I have to do my security training again? I did it 10 years ago.”
This is a good question that has more than one answer - we thought we would tell you all about it.
SA Security Licensing changes
Every so often, licensing authorities review the training and qualifications required for Security Agents. For example, in 2006, the Liquor Licensing Act (SA) 1997, introduced provisions for Approved Crowd Controllers. In 2014, Consumer and Business Services reviewed licensing requirements against the current training packages and as a result, no longer accept PRS versions of Security qualifications. For those people with a PRS qualification who let their licence lapse, to re-enter the industry means having to undertake the training again to become requalified.
Security Operations Training Package changes
Every five years or so, training packages undergo review by a Skills Service Organisation (previously known as Industry Skills Councils), in consultation with industry experts. The reason for the review, is to bring the training up to date with current industry and social trends and changes to peak industry bodies. This improves the training product and the calibre of security operatives graduating. This also means old versions of qualifications are superseded by new ones, and after a period, these qualifications are no longer recognised for licensing as discussed above.
Security Licensing is controlled by state based legislation
Currently, security licensing is controlled at a state level. For trained security personnel, this may mean there are different competency requirements for licensing in respective states… For each state that you work in, you will require a licence. In some instances, you can apply for a Security Licence in an alternate state via mutual recognition through the relevant licensing authority. They will check to make sure the licence held, is equivalent to the one being applied for. If the licence is not equivalent, gap training may be required to attain the units that are missing from your qualification.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for Security Officers
RPL is an assessment process where a candidate’s skills, knowledge and experience are assessed against the competency standards of a qualification or unit of competency. Evidence that is submitted for RPL must be tested against the Rules of Evidence… Valid – Sufficient – Authentic – Current. Where evidence produced by the RPL candidate does not meet the requirements of the competency standards and/or Rules of Evidence, candidates may be required to either:
- Provide additional evidence
- Demonstrate competency through performance and knowledge activities
- Undertake gap training (a few units of competency)
- Undertake a full qualification
Security industry = Safety
Sometimes we are approached by people who are still in the industry who want RPL to upgrade to the latest qualification. Maintaining currency of qualifications is a great way to avoid licensing problems in the future, however, even current workers may struggle to achieve RPL for a full qualification. To attain a Certificate II in Security Operations you need to complete a minimum of 12 units. If you want to be endorsed for General Guarding, Crowd and Venue Control and Approved Crowd Controller, you need to complete a total of 17 units of training. The training involves learning and practicing an array of skills and knowledge across a range of aptitudes. Compare this to how often do you apply all of these skills as part of your job role. If you primarily perform crowd control duties, you are not maintaining your skills in other areas such as mobile patrols, escorting or screening, and will struggle to produce sufficient evidence to get recognition.
As you see, there are strict guidelines that Tactical Training and other RTOs must follow when we consider an individual’s enquiry about retraining for the security industry. The functions performed by security officers can be critical and must be taken seriously. While it may be annoying and requires the outlay of cash – it is a seriously great investment in your future to maintain your skills through retraining.
Security Licence SA Courses
Tactical Training offers Security Operations training packages that will aid you in your SA security licence application, including:
- Certificate II in Security Operations– Licensing Package for General Guarding, Crowd and Venue Control and Approved Crowd Controller
- CAREER PACKAGE – Cert 2 and Cert 3 in Security Operations
- Certificate III in Security Operations– for those who already hold a current Cert 2
At Tactical Training we use flexible and progressive training styles to accommodate the learning needs of a variety of individuals. Why not speak to our friendly team today and find out more?
Need more information?
Tactical Training (Australia) Pty Ltd is a nationally accredited provider for first aid training. Contact our friendly Customer Care team on:
08 8331 1620