Latest release
Sub-major Group

44 Protective Service Workers

ANZSCO - Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations
Reference period
2022

44 Protective Service Workers

Protective Service Workers protect and preserve property, public order and safety through the provision of defence, firefighting, police, custodial and security services.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this sub-major group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2); or
  • AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3); or
  • AQF Certificate II or III, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4); or
  • AQF Certificate I, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2); or
  • NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3); or
  • NZQF Level 2 or 3 qualification, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4); or
  • NZQF Level 1 qualification, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. In the case of some Skill Level 5 occupations, a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification, or no formal qualification or on-the-job training may be required.

Tasks Include:

  • providing specialised military services to the defence forces
  • controlling and extinguishing fires
  • maintaining public order and safety through the enforcement of laws
  • observing the conduct and behaviour of prisoners to prevent disturbances and escapes
  • patrolling and guarding properties, and checking for unauthorised entry
  • conducting investigations for clients
  • advising clients on security requirements, and recommending and designing security specifications
Minor Group

441 Defence Force Members, Fire Fighters and Police

Defence Force Members, Fire Fighters and Police protect and preserve property, public order and safety through the provision of specialised military services to the defence forces, the enforcement of laws, attendance at emergencies, and control and extinguishment of fires.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this minor group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2); or
  • AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2); or
  • NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

  • performing specialised military services for the defence forces
  • controlling and extinguishing fires
  • rescuing people stranded or trapped in dangerous situations
  • maintaining public order and safety
  • patrolling assigned areas
  • investigating offences and complaints
  • gathering evidence
  • pursuing, arresting and interviewing suspects
  • maintaining records and preparing reports
Unit Group

4411 Defence Force Members - Other Ranks

Defence Force Members - Other Ranks provide specialised military services to the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

  • guarding airfields and other defence force bases
  • serving as an infantry soldier
  • erecting bridges, building field defences, constructing temporary roads, clearing minefields, repairing airfields and demolishing targets using explosives
  • crewing armoured fighting vehicles
  • operating artillery, ground and surface-based defence systems, shipboard weapons and other advanced specialist military weapons and equipment
  • providing firepower and ground-based air defence
  • establishing and maintaining command, control and communications equipment and facilities
  • conducting surveillance, reconnaissance and boarding operations
  • maintaining personal arms and ammunition

Occupation:

  • 441111 Defence Force Member - Other Ranks

441111 Defence Force Member - Other Ranks

Provides specialised military services to the Australian or New Zealand Defence Forces.

This occupation includes the following ranks:

  • Air Force: Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Corporal, Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman
  • Army: Corporal, Lance Corporal, Private
  • Navy: Able Seaman, Leading Seaman, Seaman

This occupation excludes Defence Force Members - Other Ranks performing duties for which there is a civilian equivalent. These members are included with the closest civilian occupation. For example, Mechanic Recovery is included in Unit Group 7331 Truck Drivers, in Occupation 733115 Tow Truck Driver.

Skill Level: 3

Specialisations:

  • Aircraft Life Support Fitter (Air Force)
  • Airfield Defence Guard (Air Force)
  • Air Surveillance Operator (Air Force)
  • Geospatial Imagery Intelligence Analyst (Air Force)
  • Security Police (Air Force)
  • Signal Operator Linguist (Air Force)
  • Signal Operator Technical (Air Force)
  • Aircraft Life Support Fitter (Army)
  • Air Dispatcher (Army)
  • Combat Engineer (Army)
  • Commando (Army)
  • Crewman Armoured Personnel Carrier M113 (Army)
  • Crewman Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV) (Army)
  • Crewman Main Battle Tank (Army)
  • Ground Crewman Mission Support (Army)
  • Gun Number (Army)
  • Marine Specialist (Army)
  • Operator Artillery Meteorology and Surveyor (Army)
  • Operator Electronic Warfare (Army)
  • Operator Ground Based Air Defence (Army)
  • Operator Weapon Locating Radar (Army)
  • Rifleman (Army)
  • Acoustic Warfare Analyst (Navy)
  • Aircrewman (Navy)
  • Boatswains Mate (Navy)
  • Combat Systems Operator (Navy)
  • Combat Systems Operator Mine Warfare (Navy)
  • Electronic Warfare - Linguist (Navy)
  • Electronic Warfare - Technical (Navy)
  • Naval Police Coxswain (Navy)
Unit Group

4412 Fire and Emergency Workers

Fire and Emergency Workers attend emergencies to minimise risk to community safety and security and protect life and property.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Registration or licensing may be required.

Tasks Include:

  • attending the scene of fires and other emergencies reported to authorities
  • rescuing and evacuating people stranded or trapped in dangerous situations
  • operating pumps, spraying water, foam and chemicals from hoses, portable extinguishers and other appliances to extinguish fires and to disperse or neutralise dangerous substances
  • cutting openings in buildings and crashed vehicles to free occupants
  • maintaining site security systems
  • administering first aid
  • attending and participating in training activities, rescue classes, drills, demonstrations and courses in emergency and fire-fighting techniques
  • training recruits in emergency procedures and practices
  • visiting buildings and potential fire hazards to study access points and locations of hydrants
  • maintaining tools and equipment

Occupations:

  • 441211 Emergency Service Worker
  • 441212 Fire Fighter

441211 Emergency Service Worker

Alternative Title:

  • Emergency Response Officer

Attends the scene of emergencies to minimise risk to community safety and security.

Skill Level: 3

Specialisation:

  • Industrial Paramedic

441212 Fire Fighter

Responds to fire alarms and emergency calls, controls and extinguishes fires, and protects life and property. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 3

Specialisations:

  • Fire Engineer (Army)
  • Fire Prevention Officer
  • Leading Firefighter
Unit Group

4413 Police

Police protect and preserve property, public order and safety through the enforcement of laws.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2)

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

  • investigating and prosecuting offences committed in areas such as organised, corporate and computer crime, environmental offences, drug trafficking, fraud, counterfeiting and terrorism
  • securing and examining scenes of crimes and accidents to locate and obtain evidence for analysis
  • protecting witnesses and investigating official corruption
  • maintaining public order and safety
  • patrolling assigned areas to minimise potential for public disturbance and crime
  • investigating accidents, crimes, minor offences and citizens' complaints, gathering evidence, and pursuing, arresting and interviewing suspected offenders
  • testing persons suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs and issuing infringement notices for traffic offences
  • directing and re-routing traffic at congested areas
  • attending community meetings and answering inquiries from the public where necessary
  • providing advice and assistance to victims of crime and their families
  • maintaining records and preparing reports

Occupations:

  • 441311 Detective
  • 441312 Police Officer

441311 Detective

Investigates serious crimes, such as terrorism, homicide, armed robbery, vice and arson, and gathers evidence to arrest and prosecute suspected offenders.

Skill Level: 2

Specialisations:

  • Detective Sergeant
  • Plain Clothes Police Officer

441312 Police Officer

Maintains public order, and enforces laws by investigating crimes, patrolling public areas and arresting suspected offenders.

Skill Level: 2

Specialisations:

  • Bomb Squad Officer
  • Mounted Police Officer
  • Search and Rescue Officer
  • Tactical Response Group Officer
Minor Group

442 Prison and Security Officers

Prison and Security Officers supervise and control the activities of inmates in correctional institutions, and provide security and investigative services to organisations and individuals.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this minor group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3); or
  • AQF Certificate II or III, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4); or
  • AQF Certificate I, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3); or
  • NZQF Level 2 or 3 qualification, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4); or
  • NZQF Level 1 qualification, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. In the case of some Skill Level 5 occupations, a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification, or no formal qualification or on-the-job training may be required.

Tasks Include:

  • observing the conduct and behaviour of prisoners to prevent disturbances and escapes
  • supervising prisoners during work assignments, recreational periods, sporting activities and meals
  • patrolling and guarding properties, and checking for unauthorised entry
  • providing armed escort for the transport of cash and other valuables
  • maintaining order at venues where there are large gatherings of people
  • conducting investigations for clients
  • advising clients on security requirements and recommending and designing security specifications
Unit Group

4421 Prison Officers

Prison Officers supervise and control the activities of inmates in prisons and other correctional institutions.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate II or III (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 2 or 3 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)

At least one year of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

  • observing the conduct and behaviour of prisoners to prevent disturbances and escapes
  • inspecting and maintaining the security of locks, window bars, grilles, doors and gates
  • supervising prisoners during work assignments, recreational periods, sporting activities and meals
  • assisting with the implementation of education, rehabilitation and other programs organised for prisoners
  • searching prisoners and cells for weapons, drugs and other contraband items
  • patrolling assigned areas and reporting breaches of rules, unsatisfactory attitudes and prisoner adjustment problems
  • requisitioning prisoners' clothing, toiletries, reading material and other allowable items
  • supervising prisoners in transit between courts, prisons and other facilities

Occupation:

  • 442111 Prison Officer

442111 Prison Officer

Alternative Title:

  • Correctional Officer
  • Corrections Officer

Supervises and controls the activities of inmates in a prison or other correctional institution.

Skill Level: 4

Specialisation:

  • Custodial Officer
Unit Group

4422 Security Officers and Guards

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

Indicative Skill Level:

The occupations Crowd Controller, Private Investigator and Security Officer have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate II or III, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 2 or 3 qualification, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

The occupations Alarm, Security or Surveillance Monitor, Armoured Car Escort, Retail Loss Prevention Officer and Security Officers and Guards nec have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate I or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 1 qualification or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. In the case of some Skill Level 5 occupations, a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification, or no formal qualification or on-the-job training may be required.

The occupation Security Consultant has a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

  • AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

  • NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Registration or licensing may be required.

Tasks Include:

  • 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

Occupations:

  • 442211 Alarm, Security or Surveillance Monitor
  • 442212 Armoured Car Escort
  • 442213 Crowd Controller
  • 442214 Private Investigator
  • 442215 Retail Loss Prevention Officer
  • 442216 Security Consultant
  • 442217 Security Officer
  • 442299 Security Officers and Guards nec

442211 Alarm, Security or Surveillance Monitor

Monitors security alarms, CCTV and other surveillance equipment, and contacts supervisors, police or fire brigades if security is breached or fire is detected. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 5

442212 Armoured Car Escort

Provides armed escort for transportation and delivery of cash and other valuables. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 5

442213 Crowd Controller

Alternative Title:

  • Bouncer

Carries out crowd control duties at entertainment, sporting or recreational venues. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 4

442214 Private Investigator

Alternative Title:

  • Private Inquiry Agent

Conducts investigations for clients and prepares evidence for court proceedings. Registration or licensing is required.

Skill Level: 4

442215 Retail Loss Prevention Officer

Detects and investigates shoplifting, fraud and other unlawful acts of employees or customers of a retail establishment. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 5

442216 Security Consultant

Advises clients on security requirements, and recommends and designs security specifications. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 3

442217 Security Officer

Alternative Title:

  • Security Guard

Patrols and guards industrial and commercial property, railway yards, stations and other facilities. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 4

Specialisations:

  • Mobile Patrol Officer
  • Railway Patrol Officer

442299 Security Officers and Guards nec

This occupation group covers Security Officers and Guards not elsewhere classified. Registration or licensing may be required.

Skill Level: 5

Occupations in this group include:

  • Bodyguard