Private and Confidential
17 June 2025
Legislative Update on Regulations Released Today
Dear Members and Non Members,
I am writing to provide you with an important update regarding the outcome of the Private Security and County Court Amendment Act 2024 and the newly enacted Private Security Regulations 2025 (S.R. No. 53/2025), which take effect from 19 June 2025 (with Regulation 23 commencing 19 December 2025).
After more than six years of consistent advocacy—through formal objections, departmental negotiations, and parliamentary engagement including the support of David Limbrick MP—I’m pleased to confirm we’ve secured a major win in one of our ongoing battles.
As you are aware, under Section 15A of the Act, individuals were going to have to obtain a Business Security Licence just to work as a contractor for an Investigation Firm.
Good news: Individual investigators are now exempt from the requirement to hold a Business Security Licence under Section 15A when working as a contractor under a licensed Investigation Firm. This is a critical change that protects the existing operational model in our industry.
However, I must address some misinformation being circulated. This exemption does not mean businesses can forgo a Security Business Licence. The exemption is narrow and applies only to individuals under a licensed firm. Any suggestion that business licensing is now redundant is both false and dangerous.
Risk Management Plans
Unfortunately, our request for exemption from Section 136A regarding Risk Management Plans was not granted. Investigators undertaking client work will still be required to complete this task.
I currently sit on the Subcommittee for the implementation of Risk Management Plan Templates, working with Victoria Police LRD. I am developing a tailored template for our sector—practical, proportional, and distinct from guarding or crowd control. There’s been promising dialogue suggesting I may provide a streamlined, industry-specific template for approval by the Chief Commissioner.
First Aid Certification – Clarification
Under Regulation 17(1)(d)(e) and 17(2)(a)(b)(c), a first aid certificate is only required for licence holders who are:
- Bodyguards
- Crowd Controllers
- Security Guards
Private Investigators are not required to obtain or maintain a first aid certificate under the new regulations.
Industry Engagement – A Missed Opportunity
While I’m proud of this outcome, I must share a concern. During the Engage Victoria consultation process, only 14 submissions were received—most unrelated to private investigation.
If we want to influence legislation and protect our rights, we need to show up, participate, and make our voices heard. Silence invites decisions made without our input.
On behalf of the AISP committee, thank you for your support. These reforms tested the limits of our profession. Together, we’ve pushed back against the most damaging elements.
Useful Resources
Looking Ahead
This is not the end of our advocacy. The AISP committee remains committed to supporting the investigative and security profession. We aim to build a stronger, fairer industry—one you can trust and rely on.
“Victory belongs to the most persevering.”
Thank you all.
Yours faithfully,
Stephen Scahill
President
Association of Investigators and Security Professionals (AISP)