How To Become a Security Guard / Crowd Controller in Perth

Becoming a security guard in Perth can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice. If you’re interested in protecting people and property and ensuring the safety and security of the community, then this may be the perfect career path for you. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of becoming a security guard in Perth, including the requirements and steps you need to take.

Step 1: Check the requirements

The first step to becoming a security guard in Perth is to meet the minimum age requirement of 18 years old. This is a legal requirement set by the Western Australia Police, and you will not be able to apply for a security licence or work as a security guard if you are under 18 years of age.  

In addition to meeting the minimum age requirement, individuals must also be fit and healthy. Due to the physical demands of the job, it’s essential that security guards are confident in their physical capabilities. Security guards may be expected to walk, stand and patrol for extended periods of time negotiating stairs, as well as, restrain and control aggressive individuals / or escort individuals in emergency situations. 

If you find you don’t meet the requirements, you can either wait (in the case of age) or, discuss your concerns with our team here at Paragon Corporate Training (ESL English as a Second Language). For concerns regarding physical or mental capabilities, there are accommodations that may be made as long as it doesn’t compromise the safety or security of others.  This is called ‘reasonable adjustment’, so it is permissible, in some cases, to cater for people who may have learning constraints, such as dyslexia, ADD, shyness, and other barriers to learning.  We listen and try to accommodate all applicants, where reasonable and practicable and within the legislation.

Step 2: Security Course with Paragon Corporate Training

The next step is to complete a security course that is approved by the Western Australia Police. These courses are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to perform your duties as a security guard and cover a range of topics including security procedures, laws and regulations, and incident management. 

Here at Paragon Corporate Training, we offer the best training available for becoming a security guard in Perth. Whether you’re pursuing a career as a security officer,crowd control, cash-in-transit, bodyguard, firearms or a role in security risk analysis operations—our courses will provide you with the very best training to help you achieve your career goals. 

Step 3: Complete and pass the SAIWA TEST. (An independent test in order to get your security / crowd control licence from WAPOL.)

SAIWA Testing Page

Step 4: Security Officer Licence

Once you have completed a security course with Paragon Corporate Training, and have passed the SAIWA test, you will need to obtain a security licence from the Western Australia Police. 

To do this, you will need to submit an application, which includes providing proof of your identity and completing a background check. You will also need to pay a fee for the licence, provide two character references, and four passport-sized photos as well as an overseas police clearance. Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a security licence, which is valid for up to three years depending on the licence fee you purchase.

It’s important to note that there are differences between applying for a security licence versus applying for a firearm licence. To read more about the process of applying for a security licence see here and for applying for a firearms accreditation pursuant to the  (Corporate Firearms license) visit the WA Police site here. 

Step 5: Background check

Before you can begin working as a security guard, you will need to undergo a background check and fingerprinting process. This is to ensure that you have no prior criminal convictions that may prevent you from performing your duties as a security guard. 

If you do have a criminal record, this doesn’t immediately disqualify you from obtaining a security licence. The Security Licensing and Enforcement Directorate (SLED) within the Western Australia Police Force is responsible for issuing security licenses and regulating the security industry. SLED will consider the nature and severity of the criminal history and its relevance to the role of a security guard when determining whether to grant or deny a security license.

The background check and the fingerprinting process are conducted by the Western Australia Police, and the results will be used to determine your suitability for the role.

Step 6: First Aid Certificate

It is also important to obtain a valid First Aid certificate, which you can complete alongside your security training with us here at Paragon Corporate Training. First Aid will ensure that you are able to provide basic medical assistance to anyone who is injured or unwell while you are on duty. First aid is included in PCT’s security training and is no additional cost.

If you’re renewing your security licence you must check that you hold a current first aid certificate (HLTAID011), otherwise the renewal will not be accepted. 

Complete your security guard training at Paragon

From obtaining security certificates, diplomas, first aids, RSA’s (Responsible Service of Alcohol) and firearms training—Paragon Corporate Training offers the very best security training in WA. Whether you’re a complete beginner or, you’re looking to renew your licence, or seeking RPL, we cater to all skill levels. 

Don’t wait any longer to start your career as a security guard / crowd controller in Perth. PCT provide great employment opportunities due to our vast network of security agents throughout WA.

Enroll in one of Paragon Corporate Training’s approved security courses today and take the first step towards a fulfilling and rewarding career in security. Contact us now to learn more about our available courses and to schedule your enrollment.