Factors Behind the Noticeable Pay Movement in 2026
The Fair Work Commission’s annual wage review delivered a 3.5% uplift to award minimums, directly affecting the Security Services Industry Award that covers most guards. This adjustment applies to classifications from entry-level security officer roles through to supervisory positions, with proportionate increases for juniors, casual loadings, and allowances like night shifts, weekends, or public holidays.
Demand remains steady across sectors:
- Retail and commercial centres require consistent coverage.
- Hospitals and aged care facilities need trained personnel for patient safety and access control.
- Events, concerts, and sporting venues call for crowd management skills.
- Construction and infrastructure projects demand site security to protect equipment and workers.
Labour market pressures in trades and services contribute to upward adjustments, as employers compete for reliable staff who hold valid licences and demonstrate dependability. Overtime, penalty rates, and shift differentials add meaningfully to take-home pay, especially for night or weekend work common in guarding.
Regional variations exist—urban centres show averages around $34–$37 per hour, while some remote or high-demand locations push figures higher through site allowances or travel compensation.
A Typical Shift in Security Guard Work
Daily responsibilities focus on observation, response, and maintaining safe environments:
- Patrolling premises to monitor for unusual activity.
- Controlling access at entry points, checking IDs or passes.
- Responding to incidents, alarms, or requests for assistance.
- Completing reports on events, breaches, or observations.
- In hospital settings, supporting staff with patient area security or escort duties.
- At events, managing crowds, directing foot traffic, and ensuring compliance with rules.
Most roles require a Certificate II or III in Security Operations (or equivalent), obtained through recognised training providers offering security guard courses near me. Employers often provide site-specific induction, first aid refreshers, and ongoing compliance training. Shifts vary—day, afternoon, night, or rotating—with casual, part-time, or full-time options available.
Physical aspects include standing or walking for extended periods, occasional lifting, and remaining alert. Safety protocols, communication skills, and de-escalation techniques form core parts of the job.
Where Security Guard Positions Appear
Searches for security guard positions near me connect to opportunities with:
- National and local security firms servicing retail, commercial, and industrial clients.
- Hospital and healthcare providers needing dedicated guards.
- Event management companies for short-term or seasonal work.
- Construction site operators requiring 24/7 coverage.
Job listings appear on platforms like SEEK, Indeed, and company websites, often specifying pay ranges, roster details, and licence requirements. Proximity to home reduces commute time, with many roles in suburban or regional areas offering local work.
Steps to Get Started in Security Guard Roles
Entering the field involves clear actions:
- Complete a recognised security training course to obtain the mandatory licence (Cert II/III in Security Operations).
- Apply for a security licence through the relevant state regulator (e.g., NSW Police, VIC Police, or equivalent).
- Prepare a resume highlighting any customer service, retail, or related experience.
- Search using terms like hospital security guard or security guards near me.
- Submit applications, attend interviews focusing on reliability and situational awareness.
- Complete employer checks, such as police clearance and fitness assessments.
No university degree is needed; practical training and a clean record open doors. Many start in entry roles and progress to specialised positions with experience.
Practical Advantages of Security Work Today
These positions provide structure in varied environments. The pay adjustments make covering everyday costs more manageable, with penalty rates and overtime offering extra income during busier periods.
Guards often note:
- Predictable rosters with shift choice options.
- Opportunities to move into supervisory, training, or specialised guarding roles.
- Contribution to community safety in public-facing or healthcare settings.
In cities and towns across Australia, these jobs support essential services while delivering reliable employment.
Looking Ahead in 2026
January 2026 highlights stronger compensation in security guarding nationwide. The recent award increases, combined with steady sector demand, elevate rates for licensed professionals.
Whether patrolling retail spaces, securing hospitals, or managing events, these roles offer solid pay for vigilant, responsible work. Current postings show employers actively seeking team members to meet coverage needs.
Checking local opportunities positions interested individuals to step into positions with rates that reflect the field’s value right from the new year