Do Unarmed Guards Need a License in Victoria?

Victoria’s Legal Requirements for Unarmed Security Guards Explained

Many business owners assume that because unarmed guards don’t carry weapons, the licensing requirements must be minimal or optional.

This is incorrect.

In Victoria, all security guards armed or unarmed must be licensed. This article by Noble Security Group explains exactly what licensing is required for unarmed guards, why it’s essential, and the consequences of hiring unlicensed staff in Melbourne.

 Is Licensing Required for Unarmed Guards in VIC?

Yes — absolutely mandatory.

Under the Private Security Act 2004 (VIC):

  • Anyone performing security guard duties — including unarmed guards — must hold a valid Private Security Individual Licence (Unarmed Guard Category).

What Activities Require Licensing?

The following tasks legally require a licensed unarmed guard:

  • Patrolling property boundaries
  • Controlling access to premises
  • Monitoring CCTV or surveillance systems
  • Preventing theft, vandalism, or unauthorised entry
  • Providing visible on-site security presence
  • Performing customer service duties at secure sites (concierge security)

Even if the guard never touches a person or confronts an intruder, licensing is still required.

Licensing Process for Unarmed Guards in Victoria

Complete Approved Security Training

  • Certificate II in Security Operations (CPP20218) — mandatory
  • Optional advanced training depending on employer or site-specific requirements

 Pass Background & Police Checks

  • Full National Police Check
  • No disqualifying criminal history
  • Right to work in Australia documentation

 Submit Application to Victoria Police LRD

  • Apply through the Licensing & Regulation Division (LRD) of Victoria Police
  • Provide certified documents and certificates
  • Pay application fees

 Processing time:

  • Approximately 4–12 weeks depending on applicant history.

Ongoing Compliance Obligations

Licensed unarmed guards must:

  • Renew licences every 3 years
  • Keep contact information updated with LRD
  • Disclose any new criminal charges during licence period
  • Carry licence while on duty and present if requested

Penalties for Using Unlicensed Guards

For employers (security companies or venues) who use unlicensed guards:

Violation

Penalty (VIC Law)

Employing unlicensed guard

Fines up to $96,000 (company)

Performing unlicensed security

Fines up to $19,000 (individual)

Repeat or severe breaches

Potential jail time + licence suspension

Common Licensing Myths (Debunked)

Myth

Reality

“No weapons = no license needed”

False. License required for any guard duties

“Short-term or casual work doesn’t count”

False. Licence required for all deployments

“Private business owners can self-hire guards”

False. Must engage licensed security providers

Licensed Security Companies Provide Full Compliance

At Noble Security Group:

  • All unarmed guards hold current Private Security Individual Licences
  • Our business holds a valid Private Security Business Licence
  •  We verify all staff compliance before deployment
  • Full public liability and workers’ compensation coverage included

 Hiring directly through licensed providers protects your business legally, financially, and reputationally.

Case Study – Strata Management Group, Inner Melbourne

Issue:
 Body corporate committee hired “private security” guards at reduced cost who were unlicensed.

Outcome:

  • Tenant filed assault claim
  • Liability not covered by insurance
  • Committee fined $45,000 for breach of Private Security Act
  • NSG brought in to provide compliant unarmed guards going forward