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Career pathway

Security Officers and Guards

ANZSCO 4422

Employed

66,800

Part-time share

22%

Female share

17%

Median weekly earnings

$1,818

Median age

39 yrs

Employment outlook

Growing

Source: Jobs and Skills Australia · ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

About this career

Security Officers and Guards provide security and investigative services to organisations and individuals.

What they typically do

  • Patrolling property and checking doors, windows and gates for unauthorised entry
  • Watching for irregularities such as fire hazards, malfunctions of machines and equipment, lights left on, leaking water pipes and unlocked security doors
  • Issuing security passes to authorised visitors and giving directions
  • Monitoring alarms and contacting supervisors, police and fire brigades by radio or phone if security is breached or fire is detected
  • Picking up and ensuring the safe delivery of cash, payrolls and valuables
  • Operating coin and currency counting machines, and carrying out cash counting and packaging functions
  • Maintaining order at venues where there are large gatherings of people
  • Conducting investigations for clients and preparing evidence for court proceedings
  • Detecting and investigating theft and other unlawful acts carried out in retail establishments
  • Advising clients on security requirements and designing security specifications

States and territories

Share of workers by location

NSW
26.1%
VIC
23.8%
QLD
22.2%
WA
13.4%
SA
7.6%
ACT
2.9%
NT
2.3%
TAS
1.6%

Qualification pathways

These accredited qualifications can lead to a career as a Security Officers and Guards.