Rising Demand for Security Guards in Australia – How the right Security Course Launches Your Career

Why Australia Needs More Security Professionals Than Ever

Australia’s security industry is growing at a rapid pace. As of 2024, more than 153,000 individuals hold active security licences across the country and even more currently registered in a security course, with Queensland seeing a significant rise in licensed security officers’ year-on-year (ASIAL, 2024). 

Several factors are driving this increasing demand: 

• Population growth and urban development are leading to more commercial infrastructure that needs protection. 

• Increased focus on public safety at venues and events, especially after high-profile incidents worldwide prompting more and more people to take on the security course. 

• A surge in infrastructure and civil projects, especially across Queensland and New South Wales. 

• Ongoing national and local government investment into frontline services, including crowd control and security roles. 

This demand translates into opportunity. For individuals seeking job-ready training and stable employment, entering the security industry is a smart move—and it all starts with the right training. The gateway to this exciting industry is the course CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations course.  

What Is the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations? 

The CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations is the nationally recognised training required to apply for a security guard licence in most states and territories of Australia, including Queensland. It equips students with the skills and knowledge to work safely and professionally as an entry-level security officer. This is often considered as the go to security course by majority of companies when they are recruiting their security guards. 

Topics covered in the course typically include: 

• Patrolling and monitoring premises 

• Screening people and items 

• Managing conflict and responding to incidents 

• Applying legal and ethical security practices 

• Using communication devices and reporting procedures 

Once this security course is completed, graduates can apply for a Class 1 Security Licence (Unarmed) in Queensland—subject to meeting all licensing requirements outlined by the Office of Fair Trading. 

Please note: Completion of this course does not guarantee a licence or employment. Licensing is issued separately by the relevant state authority. 

How a Security Course Gets You Job-Ready 

The CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations is designed with real-world readiness in mind. Students aren’t just learning theory in a classroom—they’re trained in hands-on scenarios that reflect the kinds of situations they’ll face on the job. From verbal de-escalation to monitoring surveillance systems, each unit of competency focuses on building practical skills. 

At Human Resource Training (RTO 31678), our training emphasises: 

• Interactive, scenario-based learning 

• Compliance with Queensland security legislation 

• Support from experienced trainers with industry backgrounds 

• Pre-licence knowledge to help students understand their obligations and responsibilities 

Students walk away not only with a qualification but with the confidence to enter the industry knowing how to conduct themselves professionally and safely. 

Real Career Outcomes: What You Can Do with the Qualification 

Graduating from a security training course opens doors to a wide variety of jobs. While it’s true that many graduates start in general guarding roles, there are many pathways available once you gain experience and, if desired, complete additional training. 

Common entry-level roles include: 

• Static Guard (e.g. shopping centres, office buildings) 

• Crowd Controller (e.g. licensed venues, events) 

• Gatehouse or Construction Site Security 

• Concierge/Corporate Security 

As you progress, you might choose to specialise in areas such as: 

• Mobile Patrols 

• Control Room Operations 

• Cash-in-Transit Security (with additional licensing and training) 

• Event or Festival Security Management 

There is also increasing demand for guards who possess strong communication and customer service skills, especially in front-facing roles such as concierge security or venue entry screening. The industry is evolving, and employers value professionals who can handle both security challenges and customer interactions with professionalism. 

The Industry Outlook: Why Now Is the Time 

A career in security isn’t just about standing at a door. It offers variety, responsibility, and opportunities to make a real impact in your community. With the Australian Government projecting steady growth in the protective services sector over the next five years (Labour Market Insights, 2024), now is a smart time to consider a career in security. 

Importantly, many students who complete the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations may be eligible for Queensland Government funding under the Certificate 3 Guarantee program. 

Eligibility criteria apply. Visit the official Queensland Government Certificate 3 Guarantee page to find out more (Queensland Government, 2024). 

Access to subsidised training can reduce the financial barriers to gaining your qualification, making it more achievable to start your journey into the security industry. 

Final Thoughts – Take the First Step Towards a Growing Career 

The demand for security guards in Australia is not slowing down. Whether it’s protecting people at events, maintaining order in a busy retail environment, or securing critical infrastructure, trained professionals are needed across the country. 

Completing a quality security course like the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations is the first step to joining this essential industry. At Human Resource Training (RTO 31678), we help our students build real skills that lead to real opportunities—delivered by experienced trainers, in a supportive, professional environment. 

Ready to start your journey into the world of security? Take the next step and learn more about our upcoming courses. 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Completion of training does not guarantee employment or licensing. Always check the current licensing requirements with the Office of Fair Trading or your local licensing body. 

Sources: 

• Australian Security Industry Association Limited (ASIAL). (2024). “Security Workforce Data Snapshot. https://www.asial.com.au/ 

• Labour Market Insights. (2024). “Job Outlook: Security Officers.” Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. https://labourmarketinsights.gov.au/ 

• Queensland Government. (2024). “Certificate 3 Guarantee.” Department of Employment, Small Business and Training. https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/training-careers/incentives/certificate3