How to Become a Detective in Australia

Private detectives need licenses in Australia.

Detectives in Australia conduct investigations and prepare evidence for clients in court proceedings. Detectives are typically involved in matters concerning character inquiries, insurance, missing persons and so on. They work in industrial and commercial organizations, as well as for private agencies. Detectives work both indoors in offices and outdoors, where they conduct surveillance. To become a detective, you need a license.

Instructions

1. Assess whether you have what it takes to become a detective. You must have strong communication and observation skills and the ability to accept responsibility. Also, you must have a sound character, without any criminal record.

2. Complete a Private Inquiry Agency Practice or Commercial Agency Practice course. These courses are offered by registered training organizations: the Australian Institute of Private Detectives, for example, offers training for Certificates in Government Investigations, Government Fraud Control and Criminal Defense Investigation practice (see Resources). To apply for these courses, you must have completed at least Year 10 of school . The specific requirements vary from state to state.

3. Work as sub-agent after completing your course. According to the New South Wales Police force, you must work under a Master license holder's supervision. During this time, you will hold a probationary license, which can be renewed repeatedly while you're working as a sub agent. There is no governmental restriction on the time period spent at this level. Queensland's eligibility requirements state that you must be over 18 years of age, must have completed a training course and must be an "appropriate person to hold the license." Each state's requirements vary substantially. The Australian Institute of Private Detectives lists the full license requirements for each state, along with the addresses of the license-issuing bodies (see Resources).

4. Choose the alternative route to becoming a sub-agent. The alternative route is a traineeship in investigative services, such as Barrington's or the Australian School of Security and Investigations.

References

• My Future: Occupation Information - Private Investigator
• Investigators: Private Investigator
• New South Wales Police Force: CAPI Qualification Requirements by Applicant Category

Resources

• My Future: Occupation Information - Private Investigator
• Barringtons: Investigation Services
• Australian School of Security and Investigations: Private Investigator Training Courses
• Australian Institutes of Private Detectives: Important Training Information