Q. Can I apply for a security clearance on my own?

No. To obtain a security clearance you need to be sponsored by an Australian Government agency. 

​Q. DO YOU DO PROVIDE OTHER TYPES OF SUITABILITY screening SERVICES?

Yes - we have a PSPF compliant, commercial service called a Suitability Clearance - visit www.cleard.life for more information. 

Q. What is Security Vetting?

A security clearance is a status granted to individuals allowing them access to classified information and resources after completion of a series of thorough background checks.

These checks are undertaken to ensure that people entrusted with security classified information/resources:

• are eligible to have access
• have had their identity established
• are suitable to have access, and
• are willing to comply with the standards that safeguard those resources against misuse.

Security clearances are only required for individuals who, as part of their work for the Australian Government, need to access classified information/resources.

Q. How do I know if I need a security clearance?

When you start a new job or contract you will be advised by your employer whether or not the position you will be working in requires you to have a security clearance.

Q. How many types or levels of security clearance are there?

Australia has four levels of security vetting, each involving more rigorous checking:

• Baseline Vetting: permits access to classified information/resources up to and including PROTECTED.
• Negative Vetting Level 1: permits access to classified information/resources up to and including SECRET.
• Negative Vetting Level 2: permits access to classified information/resources up to and including TOP SECRET.
• Positive Vetting: permits access to resources at all classification levels, including certain types of caveated and codeword information.

The level of security clearance required will depend on the level of classified information/resources you need to access in your position, eg. 'your need-to-know'. The requirement for a security clearance is not based on rank or seniority.

FOR MORE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
The AGSVA'S website (new window, external link)

AGSVA Referee »

Clearance Subjects »