Pub bouncers and personal security guards will have to hold a licence or certificate of approval for the first time under legislation passed by Parliament last night.The Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Bill, which was passed on a unan
Pub bouncers and personal security guards will have to hold a licence or certificate of approval for the first time under legislation passed by Parliament last night.
The Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Bill, which was passed on a unanimous vote, repeals and replaces laws which have been in force for 36 years.
Associate Justice Minister Nathan Guy said the new regime would significantly improve regulation of the private security industry.
"Private security personnel play an important role in protecting the safety of the public," he said.
"It can involve dangerous and difficult situations so it is important that people are properly regulated and suitable for the role."
A new complaints and investigation body will be established, run by the Department of Internal Affairs, and penalties for non-compliance have been increased.
The new regime is designed to:
* Prevent unsuitable people from working in the private security and investigation industry;
* Ensure security personnel and private investigators can, where appropriate, be required to undertake training;
* Permit regulations to be made prescribing codes of conduct for different licensees and certificate holders;
* Ensure the regulatory regime is properly administered and enforced; and
* Ensure there are appropriate penalties for breaches.
