Security Insider Magazine April - June 2023

The only End-to-End Workforce Management Software for Australian Security Companies

Cerely is designed to manage and simplify all aspects of managing your company

Managing a security company is always easy when you have the proper workforce management software in place. Without the right software, managers would spend countless hours on administrative tasks such as emailing, rostering, managing leave requests, processing payroll, invoicing, and more.

Would you like to reduce the number of software systems you use to manage your clients and employees and/or contractors?

Do you want to save time when rostering your employees or contractors?

Do you want to automate your processes from rostering, payroll and invoicing to get back 80% of your time?

Cerely was created to address the many issues facing security companies, including managing multiple software systems in order to keep track of employees and clients; spending long hours rostering workers; having no way of sending invoices directly from your workforce management system—no matter how amazing it is!

Cerely is your customisable workforce management solution with features such as:

Rostering

Rostering staff and contractors just got a whole lot easier. Add shifts once, assign who you want to work those shifts and let Cerely do the rest..

Action 12 months of rosters in 5 minutes.

CRM Payroll

Managing clients, contacts, and contractors has never been so easy. Track phone calls, todo’s, and emails in one place—and streamline your task management process!

Cerely handles all payroll processing automatically and matches pay rates to employees’ roles. It seamlessly integrates with both Xero, Quickbooks and MYOB.

Invoicing Timesheets

Time and Attendance

Let Cerely do the invoicing for you with 100% accuracy. Save more than 90% of the time it takes you to invoice your clients. You can even invoice for recurring services or items.

Allow your employee and contractors to record their hours worked at each site by using Cerely timesheets module so it’s ready for billing. Turn paper timesheets into digital ones and save time and money..

Leave Management

Simple, fast, and paperless leave management process. Approved leaves are integrated with Cerely’s rostering, timesheet & payroll ensuring paid leave entitlements are processed within the same pay run period.

Monitor your security officers’ attendance and real-time location with Cerely’s built-in GPS tracker and receive attendance and actiondriven alerts to be in full control of your team.

Multi-Companies

Do you own or operate more than 1 company? If so, we have you covered.

Manage one or ten businesses with Cerely. Stay connected to clients and monitor rosters, approve timesheets, and send invoices—all in one system. Cerely will automatically generate all rosters, timesheets and invoices up into the correct entity for you—so you do not have to worry about anything.

President’s Message

Editorial and Advertising

Security Insider is published by The Australian Security Industry Association Limited

PO Box 1338 Crows Nest, NSW 1585

Tel: 02 8425 4300 | Fax: 02 8425 4343

Email: communications@asial.com.au

Web: www.asial.com.au

Publisher Editor

Bryan de Caires

Editorial Enquiries communications@asial.com.au

Demand for security services remains high despite the lingering economic and social affects of COVID. Indeed, as COVID restrictions continue to subside, the tide is flooding in with major events requiring more security services than we have seen in years. It’s reason to celebrate, but the hike in demand brings serious industry challenges. This calls for creative thinking, innovation and persistence.

We’ve seen a number of very practical and valuable tools and initiatives released through the ASIAL Secretariat that add value to the work-a-day lives of our members. They include apps, and online portals among other things. For example, with ASIAL’s new mobile app ASIAL GO, useful Security Industry information is now at members’ fingertips. Knowledge, advice and support are only a click away.

ASIAL GO allows you to view and book events. It provides immediate resources for legislation, regulation, member benefits and publications to name just a handful of practical uses. If you haven’t already downloaded the app, I encourage you to do so.

Another important innovation this year will be the launch of a security Careers Portal via the ASIAL website - a resource for potential entrants into the industry where they can view job descriptions, expected wages and so on. The careers portal will be released in stages to enable ongoing enhancements. This is one very practical way the industry can tackle the skilled labour shortage that is putting pressure on security providers at a time of heightened demand for security services.

Cyber crime is in the headlines again with another serious incursion against Australian businesses and

institutions. And yet, in spite of the clear risk, a recent survey has shown that Australians by and large are less concerned about cyber security than ever before. It is one of the more curious findings of this year’s Australian Security Confidence Index (ASCI) commissioned by ASIAL. This longitudinal survey is now in its third year and the results of the 2023 study are now available to members.

No matter how important cyber security is, Australia’s entire security arrangement has to be viewed as a whole. It must be addressed by all governments, business and the Security Industry in partnership. Not content to wait for Australian Governments to legislate, the Security Industry has taken the step of drafting our own draft bill. A major line of effort by the ASIAL Secretariat in 2023 is the development of (and on-going advocacy for) the Australian Private Security Act. It offers the Federal Parliament a starting point for a Bill that we believe all State and Territory Governments will be able to incorporate. The result of this would be a nationally consistent regulatory framework for the Security Industry.

This is an important goal for our Security Industry. But it is only one of several ways we can add value to our customers and the nation as a whole.

Until next time, let’s continue our part in keeping ‘A safe and secure Australia’

Advertising Marketing Communications advertising@asial.com.au

Graphic Design + Digital Mitch Morgan Design 0402 749 312 mitch@mitchmorgandesign.com www.mitchmorgandesign.com

Editorial Contributors

Bryan de Caires, AISA, Beyond Blue and Chris Delaney.

Print + Distribution

CMYKHub Pty Ltd

Published quarterly

Estimated readership of 10,000 Views expressed in Security Insider do not necessarily reflect the opinion of ASIAL. Advertising does not imply endorsement by ASIAL, unless otherwise stated with permission. All contributions are welcomed, though the publisher reserves the right to decline to publish or to edit for style, grammar, length and legal reasons. Press Releases can be emailed to: communications@asial.com.au. Internet references in articles, stories and advertising were correct at the time of printing. ASIAL does not accept responsibility for leading views.

Copyright©2022 (ASIAL) All rights reserved. Reproduction of Security Insider magazine without permission is strictly prohibited.

Security Insider is a subscription-based publication, rates and further details can be found at www.asial.com.au.

NEXT ISSUE: JULY - SEPTEMBER 2023

Printed ISSN 1442-1720

Digital ISSN 2207-8282

John Gellel President

2023 has started well with the industry making gains in several areas and the year ahead presents us with opportunities to add even more value.

Security Insurance Quote Delays

With the hardening of insurance markets and reduced underwriting capacity, it is taking longer for underwriters to process applications and provide brokers with quotes (with up to 2-week delays in some instances). To ensure you are not impacted by this, make sure you allow sufficient time to arrange cover.

SECURITY EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE

ASIAL GO APP

In a first for the Australian security industry, ASIAL, has unveiled its new mobile app – ASIAL GO - on iOS and Android, creating a mobile office experience for its members. Available now for iOS and Android devices, the app is free to download for ASIAL members via the Apple App Store or Google Play.

The App offers a new easy-to-use, on-the-go, and customisable experience for its members. Whether commuting to work or out in the field, the App provides access to the latest security industry news and developments; access to tailored resources and information; and the opportunity to create custom push notifications to ensure members don’t miss out on important breaking news.

The App was built with the key goals of offering ease of navigation, a fast load time, and the ability for users to access content tailored for them.

Accessing information couldn’t be any easier, and the good news is that it’s all included as part of your ASIAL membership fee.

There is no limit to the number of your team who can access the ASIAL GO App. Simply ensure they are added to the ASIAL portal as the login is the same, then download the app and enter the login details.

Australia’s premier security industry event, the 2023 Security Exhibition & Conference, will be held at the ICC Sydney from the 30th August – 1st September 2023. Bringing together the full spectrum of suppliers, industry professionals and end users, this is an event not to be missed.

In addition, the ASIAL Security Conference will feature a high-level lineup of experts and thought leaders who will address a range of topical issues and challenges faced by security professionals. There will also be an opportunity to network at the Security 2023 Gala Dinner.

WA – Annual paid meeting with workers and the relevant union

As part of its 2021 election commitment, the McGowan Government will introduce the provision of an annual paid meeting with workers and the relevant union on government cleaning and security contracts to make sure that workers are properly advised of their employment rights. The intention is for the clause to be included in relevant contracts from 1 May 2023.

Part of a suite of initiatives aimed at combatting wage theft, the clause will require contractors to allow their employees to attend an information session on workplace rights conducted by the relevant union, on ordinary pay once per 12-month period. Workers are not mandated to attend a meeting –attendance is entirely voluntary (however, contractors must allow employees to attend the information session if the employee wishes during their rostered hours). There is no requirement for any worker to be a member of the union to attend such a meeting. The clause will not apply to services delivered at hospitals or schools, or to contracts between cleaning and security contractors and a facilities manager.

More detailed information on the change will be circulated as soon as it is available.

Lead Gala Dinner Sponsor

Women in Security Survey

ASIAL is conducting a Women in Security survey to identify possible strategies and initiatives to increase female participation in the security industry. Licensed security personnel currently account for less than 15% of all security licence holders. The anonymous survey is available for completion on the ASIAL GO App and ASIAL website.

SECURE JOBS BETTER PAY TIMELINE

The Secure Jobs and Better Pay variations to the Act come into effect at various intervals from December 2022 and throughout 2023. Employers need to be aware of what the changes are, when they come into effect and how they will affect their workplaces.

ASIAL has prepared a timeline for change, outlining the key dates for the roll out. To access the information, log-in to the ASIAL Member Resources page at www. asial.com.au.

ASIAL Member resources on the Secure Jobs Better Pay Act include a series of 10-15 minute webcasts featuring Tim McDonald, Partner, McCabes Lawyers and Chris Delaney, ASIAL Workplace Relations Advisor. The webcasts discuss the issues and considerations companies need to be aware of in preparing to comply with the new requirements. Topics discussed include:

• Multi Employer Bargaining https://youtu.be/OR82pn4Ffgw

• Zombie EBA’s and Terminating Enterprise Agreements https://youtu.be/DxwhcUXjwxY

• Flexible working, Pay secrecy, New workplace rights & Job advertisements https://youtu.be/2m4_22vhDeo

Arthur McIntyre, ASIAL Life Member and long serving Director (1985-2001, including a period as Vice President in 1990-1991) has sadly passed away.

Arthur was an active participant and ambassador for the Association and industry as a whole. He was instrumental in the formative years of ASIAL’s Annual Conference and Exhibition and was a key driver in the development of Security Insider magazine. One of the industry’s genuine characters, Arthur will be greatly missed.

Our condolences to Arthur’s family and friends.

ARTHUR MCINTYRE

Arthur McIntyre (pictured left) is presented with his ASIAL Life Membership award by fellow ASIAL Life Member Bob Bruce in 2009.

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READY TO GET TO WORK?

QLD - Hear Her Voice Reports

ASIAL has lodged a submission in response to the preliminary consultation paper Implementing the Hear Her Voice Reports.

The proposed legislative amendment makes it a mandatory disqualifying offence for the conviction of a facilitation offence by a private investigator licensed under the Security Providers Act 1993. Whilst supporting the creation of an affirmative model of consent to address coercive control and domestic violence, ASIAL raised concern that mandatory disqualification is a ‘one size fits all’ approach that may have unintended consequences on the livelihoods of all licensed security personnel, and not just private investigators.

Prohibiting Pay Secrecy and Job Vacancy Advertisements

New workplace laws about pay secrecy and what can be included in job advertisements (ads) now apply. Changes to the Fair Work Act 2009 (the Act) include changes banning Pay Secrecy in Employment Contracts and information in Job Advertisements that breach the Act or an Award or Enterprise Agreement. Some employment contracts contain provisions requiring employees to keep their remuneration confidential. The Act introduces provisions intended to promote pay transparency by prohibiting pay secrecy. An ASIAL Member Bulletin is available outlining the changes.

2023 AUSTRALIAN SECURITY INDUSTRY AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

The 27th Annual Australian Security Industry Awards for Excellence organised by ASIAL, along with the 8th Outstanding Security Performance Awards and 12th Australian Security Medals Awards will be announced at a special awards dinner in Melbourne on the 19th October 2023. Nominations open on 1 June 2023 and close on 1 September 2023. See page 22 for the Award categories.

The Awards dinner will be held at Melbourne’s prestigious Park Hyatt Hotel on the 19th October 2023, with entertainment from our MC for the night, Brian Nankervis.

MORE INFO

Information on award categories and nomination criteria is available at asial.com.au/awards

Employers Have a Positive Obligation to Prohibit Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

The Fair Work Act 2009 has been amended to include provisions in the Respect at Work Act and the Sex Discrimination Act to allow the Fair Work Commission to resolve allegations of Sexual harassment at work up to and including Arbitration. The changes require an employer or the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) to take all reasonable and proportionate measures to eliminate, as far as possible, specified forms of unlawful sex discrimination.

An ASIAL Member Bulletin has been prepared outlining the changes. ASIAL’s Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Bullying Guideline has been amended to reflect changes in the Secure Jobs, Better Pay Act. The Guide is available in the ASIAL GO app and in the member area of the ASIAL website.

Lead sponsor

Brian Nankervis

How AustralianSuper invests for members

As Australia’s largest super fund and one of the top 20 largest pension funds globally1, AustralianSuper is an active investor both in Australia and overseas. This breadth of investments means that members can benefit from growth opportunities from across the world and across different types of assets including:

opportunities from across the world and across different types of assets including:

Listed Shares

Listed Shares

Owning listed shares means owning part of companies that are listed on a public exchange, like the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX). AustralianSuper invests in Australian and international companies.

Owning listed shares means owning part of companies that are listed on a public exchange, like the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX). AustralianSuper invests in Australian and international companies. Listed shares generally make money in two ways – through an increase in the share price and when companies pay dividends.

Listed shares generally make money in two ways –through an increase in the share price and when companies pay dividends.

Private equity

Private equity

Private equity involves investing in companies that are not listed on a public exchange like the ASX. AustralianSuper co-invests in private equity along with specialised private equity managers.

Private equity involves investing in companies that are not listed on a public exchange like the ASX. AustralianSuper co-invests in private equity along with specialised private equity managers.

Unlisted infrastructure

Unlisted infrastructure

Infrastructure investments are assets that provide essential public services.These include bridges, roads, airports and power plants. AustralianSuper’s portfolio includes large-scale infrastructure investments in Australia and international markets

Infrastructure investments are assets that provide essential public services. These include bridges, roads, airports and power plants. AustralianSuper’s portfolio includes large-scale infrastructure investments in Australia and international markets

Credit

Credit

Credit investments involve providing finance for an agreed period in exchange for a return. AustralianSuper has a specialised team that invests in private credit opportunities directly in the property and infrastructure sectors.

Credit investments involve providing finance for an agreed period in exchange for a return. AustralianSuper has a specialised team that invests in private credit opportunities directly in the property and infrastructuresectors.

Fixed Interest

Fixed Interest

Fixed interest investments provide income from interest payments. Fixed interest investments include bonds and debt issued by governments and companies.

Fixed interest investments provide income from interest payments. Fixed interest investments include bonds and debt issued by governments and companies.

Cash

Cash

Cash investments are short-term money market instruments. These are issued by banks, like the CBA, NAB and Westpac, governments and companies

Cash investments are short-term money market instruments. These are issued by banks, like the CBA, NAB and Westpac, governments and companies

Global diversification

Global diversification

AustralianSuper has investments throughout the world. This helps support Australia’s economy while members benefit from growth in local and international markets. Importantly, this global approach can help reduce investment risk through diversification.

AustralianSuper has investments throughout the world. This helps support Australia’s economy while members benefit from growth in local and international markets. Importantly, this global approach can help reduce investment risk through diversification.

For a comprehensive look at understanding where AustralianSuper invests, visit How we invest.

For a comprehensive look at understanding where AustralianSuper invests, visit How we invest.

1. Thinking Ahead Institute, Global top 300 pension funds, September 2022.

1. Thinking Ahead Institute, Global top 300 pension funds, September 2022. Investment returns are not guaranteed. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. This information may be general financial advice which doesn’t take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision about AustralianSuper, you should think about your financial requirements and refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement available at australiansuper.com/pds or by calling 1300 300 273. A Target Market Determination (TMD) is a document that outlines the target market a product has been designed for. Find the TMDs at australiansuper.com/tmd. Sponsored by AustralianSuper Pty Ltd, ABN 94 006 457 987, AFSL 233788, Trustee of AustralianSuper ABN 65 714 394 898.

Investment returns are not guaranteed. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. This information may be general financial advice which doesn’t take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision about AustralianSuper, you should think about your financial requirements and refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement available at australiansupe r.com/pds or by calling

(TMD) is a document that outlines the target market

product has been designed for. Find

australiansuper.com/tmd

Platinum Member

Secom Australia were recently presented with a Platinum membership certificate recognising 25 years consecutive membership of ASIAL.

ASIAL IN THE MEDIA

ASIAL was featured in an editorial feature that appeared on the 14th of January in The Herald Sun, Daily Telegraph, Courier Mail, The Advertiser, The Mercury, Townsville Bulletin, Geelong Advertiser, Gold Coast Bulletin, Cairns Post, The Toowoomba Chronicle and NT News. In the feature, ASIAL CEO highlighted the impact of labour shortages on the events industry and the impact delays in licence processing times are having on the industry.

On the 15th of January 3AW’s Sunday Morning program featured an interview with ASIAL’s CEO on the impact labour shortages are having on the industry. Listen here https://omny.fm/shows/sunday-morning/bryan-decaires-chief-executive-officer-of-austral

In an article published on the 6th of March in the Daily Telegraph and across News Corp digital platforms, ASIAL has called for government action to strengthen Australia’s security capability and capacity.

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sponsored/smufHTZw7aClKK3YQXr6/ how-we-can-avoid-australias-potential-security-crisis/

ADDRESSING LABOUR SHORTAGES IN THE SECURITY INDUSTRY

ASIAL is working with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) to support recruitment for the Security Industry.

As part of this, DEWR is organising a briefing of over 300 Employment Services Providers and other people that help others find work to provide an understanding of the different types of jobs available in the security industry, what training is required and how people can apply.

Information shared at this webinar will enable the attendees to talk with their teams and clients to encourage them to get a career in the security industry!

In addition, ASIAL is preparing an online resource to promote careers and career pathways in the security industry.

Over the past 6 months through multiple media mentions, ASIAL reached a Total Audience Reach Potential (ie the potential viewership of any particular article based on the number of monthly unique visitors to the specific source) of over 25 million.

Revision of AS/ NZ4421 Guards & Patrol Security Services

A review of AS/NZS 4421 Guards and Patrol Security Services has commenced, with an ASIAL representative chairing the Committee. The project timeline aims to have a working draft for public consultation later this year.

NSW – Charges payable for false alarms

Under an amendment to the Police Act 1990 (section 209) which took effect on 1 January 2023, NSW Police will charge a fee for false alarm responses.

A three-month grace period to allow members to notify customers of the change expired on 31 March 2023. As a result, from 1 April 2023 charges payable will increase to $1,600 as prescribed in the Act.

Managing Director Daisuke Imahoko of Secom Australia being presented with a Platinum Certificate by General Manager John Fleming of ASIAL.

Scan QR code for more info

SOLID PROTECTION AON & ASIAL Combined Security Liability

Security and the safety of other people’s property is your business. Protecting your business is equally important. AON has over thirty (30) years’ experience working with the Security Industry and has designed specific insurance cover that aims to meet the needs of security businesses. We have an in-depth knowledge of the risks associated and the insurance programs required to help reduce your exposure.

• Standard $10 Million Public & Products Liability

• Significant excess for contractor and or sub-contractors ($25,000)

• Exclusion for use of guns and dogs

• No cover for Financial Loss

• Loss of Keys not included

• Loss of Money not included

• No Cover for Cash In Transit / Cash in Safe

• Limited Business Activity available to be covered.

worker to worker excess, our competitors impose a $25,000 excess for claims of this nature Civil Liability Professional Indemnity included as an optional extension Statutory Fines & Penalties included as an optional extension

The difference is clear, speak

Relationship Manager for ASIAL Members for an obligation free quote and get the peace of mind 02 9253 7326 Michael.pham@aon.com

ASIAL SECURITY INDUSTRY LICENSING REPORT 2023

The security industry performs a vital part of Australia’s national security mix. Ensuring the security industry has the capability and capacity to perform this role has been a significant challenge over the past three years.

INDIVIDUAL SECURITY LICENCE HOLDERS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2022

SECURITY FIRM/MASTER

HOLDERS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2022

Individual Security Licence holders as at 31 December 2022

TOTAL 2022

155,562

Security Firm/Master Licence holders as at 31 December 2022

TOTAL 2022

12,744

Drawing on licensing data from state and territory regulators, ASIAL’s Security Industry Licensing Report 2023 provides an important snapshot of this capability and capacity. The Report highlights key movements in security licensing numbers and the significant workforce the industry employs.

In the wake of COVID, like many other sectors, the security industry is grappling with severe labour shortages as demand grows. Attracting new entrants to the industry is challenging, a task not helped by extended licence processing times.

For its part, ASIAL has been advocating to governments across the country to put in place proactive measures to address labour shortages in the industry to ensure the industry can respond to growing demand. Added to this, the Albanese government has introduced significant workplace reforms aimed at lifting wages, improving job security and closing the gender pay gap.

These and a range of other changes means that a shift in thinking among users of security is required where quality, reputation and value for money are given precedence over the lowest price. Compliant security providers are becoming increasingly frustrated with having to compete with sham contracting arrangements and providers who underpay employees. The fact of the matter is that customers who choose to go with the lowest possible price with scant regard to the costs involved in providing the service, not only expose their organization to significant brand and reputational risk, but also expose themselves to prosecution under section 550 of the Fair Work Act 2009 - Accessorial liability.

One of the key take outs from this years’ ASIAL Security Industry Licensing Report is following a dip in 2021, security licence numbers (both individual and businesses) grew in 2022. As at 31 December 2022 the total number of individual security licence holders stood at 155,562, with NSW (36.4%) and VIC (23.6%) accounting for almost 60% of all individual security licence holders. This means that NSW with 20,882 more licensed security personnel has a significantly higher ratio of security personnel per head of population than VIC.

Security Firm/Master Licence holders at 31 December 2022 stood at 12,744. Interestingly, NSW with 6,412 Master Licence holders accounted for 50.3% of all security firm/ Master licence holders, compared with 14.2% for VIC.

Acknowledgement

In preparing this report ASIAL would like to acknowledge the support and data provided by each state and territory security industry regulator:

• ACT – Access Canberra

• NSW – Security Licensing & Enforcement Directorate, NSW Police Force

• NT- Department of Industry, Tourism & Trade

• QLD – Office of Fair Trading

• SA - Consumer and Business Services

• TAS - Consumer Building and Occupational Services, Department of Justice

• VIC – Licensing & Regulation Division, VIC Police

• WA – Licensing Enforcement Division, WA Police Continues over page >

ACT

Key highlights

• 25% increase in individual security licence holders.

• 10.7% increase in Master Licence holders.

NSW

Key highlights

• 89.1% of individual security licence holders were male and 10.9% were female (89.2% and 10.8% respectively in 2021).

• Individual security licence holders grew 2.7%.

• Master Licence holders grew by 15.8%.

Key highlights

• 6.5% increase in security officer and crowd control licence

SA

Key highlights

• Slight decline in individual security licence holders.

• 88.3% of individual security licence holders were male and 11.7% were female.

• 10.7% fall in security firm licences.

QLD

Key highlights

• Slight decline in individual security licence holders.

TAS

Key highlights

• 14.2% increase in individual security licence holders.

• 18.6% increase in body corporate security agents.

VIC

Key highlights

• 2.5% decrease in individual security licence/registration holders.

• 85.4% of individual security licence holders were male and 14.6% were female (83% and 17% respectively in 2021).

• Slight fall in total business licence/registrations from 1,816 to 1,807.

ASIAL’s Security Insider Podcast Series

The ASIAL Security Insider Podcast series explores some of the issues and challenges facing the security industry.

EPISODE 84

Preparing for the Commonwealth and Olympic Games - Will Australia be ready?

In this episode of the ASIAL Security Insider Podcast, we speak with Neil Fergus of Intelligent Risks about the current state of the security industry in Australia. With over twenty years of experience planning and overseeing the security arrangements for a multitude of Commonwealth Games, Olympic Games, FIFA events and Rugby World Cups, Neil talks us through what the industry needs to do in order to be ready for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, the upcoming men’s and women’s World Rugby finals and the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.

EPISODE 86

The importance of creating better opportunities for women in security

In this episode of the ASIAL Security Insider podcast, we speak with Joanna Simpson (Head of Certis Technology), Nazli Hocaoglu (Legal Officer, ACESGroup), and Anna Schreiber (APAC Channel Manager Distribution, Milestone Systems) who share their thoughts on how the security industry can increase greater female participation.

EPISODE 85

How will the 2023 NSW Security Legislation Changes impact your business?

In this episode of the ASIAL Security Insider podcast, we speak with Cameron Smith, Director of the NSW Security Licensing & Enforcement Directorate (SLED) about impending changes to NSW Security Industry Legislation. What are they? When will they come into effect and how will they impact you and your business?

EPISODE 87

Using Risk Management To Win Tattslotto

In this episode of the ASIAL Security Insider podcast, we speak with Alex Sidorenko, Risk Management Consultant, about how risk management can be used to predict outcomes for a wide range of situations including winning the Lotto, as well as discussing the common mistakes that organisations and security managers make when assessing and managing risk.

NEWACCESS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS BY

BEYOND BLUE

ELIGIBILITY

NASBO is for anyone aged 18 or over who owns a small business from any industry, including sole traders. For the purposes of program eligibility, a small business is defined as one with less than 20 employees. No GP referral or mental health plan is required to access the service. A person is not eligible for the program if they are:

• currently seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist

• dealing with severe/complex mental health issues.

Beyond Blue has developed free and confidential mental health support for small business owners under the banner NewAccess for Small Business Owners (NASBO).

Running a small business can be highly stressful. Long hours, social isolation, cash flow issues and the competing demands of work and home life can leave around a third of small business owners feeling high levels of mental distress. This can result in severe or longer-lasting mental health challenges.

NASBO is a national telehealth mental health coaching program designed to support small business owners and help get them back on track. It offers flexible phone and video call support options.

NASBO uses Low-intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy practices across six sessions to provide practical tools to manage challenges and help people break the cycle of negative and/or unhelpful thoughts.

GOAL OF THE PROGRAM

Support small business owners to improve their mental wellbeing and ability to manage challenges brought about through work and personal pressures.

HOW TO GET HELP

We want as many small business owners to know about and have access to the program as possible. We’ve put together assets to make it easier to spread the word about NewAccess for Small Business Owners within your community.

An initial assessment conducted by a clinically supervised Coach is used to identify if NASBO is the most appropriate service to support the mental health needs of the potential participant. Please note, if the individual’s symptoms or condition are found to be too severe or complex for this program, they will be referred to a more appropriate service or back to their GP.

For any enquiries or questions, please contact the below:

Phone: 1300 945 301

Website: beyondblue.org.au/newaccess-SBO

Email: newaccess.smallbusiness@rfq.com.au

AUSTRALIAN SECURITY INDUSTRY AWARDS CATEGORIES 2023

The 27th Annual Australian Security Industry Awards for Excellence organised by ASIAL, along with the 8th Outstanding Security Performance Awards and 12th Australian Security Medals Awards will be announced at a special awards dinner at the Park Hyatt Melbourne on the 19th October 2023.

Award categories include:

Australian Security Industry Awards for Excellence

• Gender Diversity

• Indigenous Employment

• Individual Achievement - Protective Services

• Individual Achievement - Technical Security

• Integrated Security Solution - Under $100,000

• Integrated Security Solution - Over $100,000

• Electronic Security Installation - Under $100,000

• Electronic Security Installation - Over $100,000

• Product of the Year - Access Control

• Product of the Year - Alarm

• Product of the Year - CCTV Camera

• Product of the Year - CCTV IP Systems / Solutions

• Product of the Year - Physical Security

• Security Equipment Manufacturer/Distributor

• Unsung Hero - Electronics

• Unsung Hero - Protective Services

Outstanding Security Performance Awards

• Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director

• Outstanding In-House Security Manager/ Director

• Outstanding Female Security Professional

• Outstanding Security Consultant

• Outstanding Security Partnership

• Outstanding Security Team

• Outstanding Guarding Company

• Outstanding Training Initiative

Australian Security Medals

• The Australian Security Medal

• The Australian Security Medal of Valour

• The ASMF Commendation

• St John Save a Life Award

Information on award categories and nomination criteria is available at asial.com.au/awards

Nominations open on 1 June 2023 and close on 1 September 2023. Nominations will be online at www.asial.com.au/awards

Lead sponsor

ASIAL GO APP

The ASIAL GO App is now available free and exclusive to ASIAL Members.

It offers a customisable experience that keeps members up to date with the latest security information on the go. The App is available on iOS and Android via the Apple Store or Google Play.

Members can take the latest security industry news and resources to the next level on the ASIAL GO App. Key features include:

• Tailored security industry news feed;

• Access to industry resources such as codes of practice, guidelines, templates, research, publications, submissions, podcasts and rates of pay;

• ASIAL event information at discounted member rates and the ability to create your own event schedule;

• Listen to podcasts while browsing content;

• Interactive polls;

• Push notifications to stay informed on breaking news.

DOWNLOADING THE ASIAL GO APP IS AS EASY AS 123.

3 Easy Steps

1 2 3

Simply go to the App store and search for ASIAL GO

For IOS click ‘GET’ and for Android click ‘Install’

Open and log into your account using your ASIAL portal login

MORE INFO

Please contact communications@asial.com.au.

Download the ASIAL GO App today!

THE AUSTRALIAN SECURITY CONFIDENCE INDEX (ASCI) 2023

The ASCI survey of average Australians across the country has found that people feel more confident and secure than they did in the past two years and even fears of cyber crime are falling, despite increased news reports of cyber assaults on corporate Australia.

The 2023 Australian Security Confidence Index (ASCI), commissioned by the Australian Security Industry Associations Ltd (ASIAL), shows that the average person is less concerned about COVID 19 and cyber crime than in previous years, even though scams and cyber attacks, digital data breaches and so on are common. Nevertheless, Australians remain most concerned about cyber attacks (31%), followed by robbery (24%) and physical assault (21%).

AUSTRALIANS ARE MOST LIKELY TO FEEL UNSAFE AT NIGHT with safety concerns reducing across all areas in 2023

Feeling unsafe while using personal IT is relatively stable and is dominated by concerns about using foreign retailers (31%). There has been a slight increase in the number of Australians that feel unsafe from the risks of terrorist attacks, robbery or assaults (46% up from 44% in 2022). Those who work out of other Australians’ homes and those who work in the IT industry are twice as likely to feel unsafe.

The COVID 19 pandemic has been subject to repeated warning from medical experts and government authorities for people to remain careful and alert. Whilst it has had a major impact on Australians’ lives over the past few years, COVID 19 seems to be losing its impact on safety perceptions. COVID 19 was as high as #4 on the list of reasons why Australian’s felt unsafe going about their daily lives in 2021 but is now mentioned by only 1% of survey respondents.

There has been a significant decrease in feeling unsafe, due to becoming desensitised to COVID 19, according to the ASCI survey. Concern about being in cinemas is down 9% from last year, being at the airport is down 6% and going to restaurants and bars are down 4%.

Australians also feel safer in education facilities during the day (fears are down 5%), using taxis (down 4%), going to shopping centres and using public transport (both down 3%) and being in the city/CBD (down 2%). Additionally, we are feeling safer about going to the doctor/medical centres (concerns down 5%) and to the hospital (down 2%).

Night-time activities remain the top reason for feeling unsafe. Australians feel most unsafe at night using public transport (30%), being at local parks / sportsgrounds (30%) and walking their local streets (27%).

While COVID 19 has changed the way Australians live, work and shop, its impact on our safety perceptions is waning in all areas. With the easing of COVID 19 concerns, now

28% of Australians feel unsafe at any point in activities during daylight hours. This is significantly lower than last year (38%).

Safety concern levels remain elevated (50%) when doing these same activities after dark. The activities we now feel significantly safer doing during the day are ones where we are likely to be in enclosed areas with crowds such as going to bars and restaurants or going to the airport, both down 6% and being in cinemas down 11% - another reduction linked to a reduced COVID 19 threat.

Australians feel most unsafe during the day using public transport (12%), using taxis (11%) and being in the city/CBD (9%), however, reasoning is now related to feeling unsafe from crime/violence.

Females remain more likely to feel at risk. At work, cyber security fears have decreased significantly to 36% from 41% in 2022. This has been driven by a decline in concern about using social media (18% compared with 23% in 2022) and fears about being at work have halved (3% compared with 6% in 2022), a decline most likely COVID 19 related.

Work based concerns are still led by using foreign retailers to shop at (21%) followed by using social media and work email for private conversations (both 18%). The longitudinal study commissioned by ASIAL reports that overall safety perceptions have remained stable with only 5% of Australians feeling unsafe overall. We still see only 1 in 5 Australians feeling very safe in their day to day lives, despite being acutely aware of situations and activities that could put them at risk.

MORE INFO

Members have access to the 2023 Australian Security Confidence Index (ASCI) at: asial.com.au/ASCI

There has been a significant decrease in feeling unsafe, due to becoming desensitised to COVID 19, according to the ASCI survey.

2023 ASIAL Events Calendar

Time: 7.30am-9.00am

Venue:

Venue: ICC Sydney

Time: 7.30am-9.00am

Venue: Rydges Hobart

Time: 7.30am-9.00am

CYBER SECURITY FUNDAMENTALS TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS

Cyber incidents cost Australian businesses

$42 billion in 2021. The recent spate of high profile cyber attacks have provided a huge wake-up call for Australia, with businesses of all size being urged to do more to strengthen their defences against a possible attack.

The reality is, regardless of your business size, a cyber security attack can be devastating. To provide members with some guidance on what they need to think about to protect their business, ASIAL invited the Australian Information Security Association (AISA) to provide a highlevel overview of some cyber security fundamentals to help businesses protect themselves from the most common cyber security incidents.

Continues over page >

The following is a summary of the presentation delivered by AISA to members across the country which sets out 8 practical steps to protecting your business.

1

Taking a step back

What does that mean?

• Sit down and go through all of the systems that your company uses. Cloud platforms, software, emails.

• Gather details of each of these platforms –Who owns the licence, who has access, what information is in these systems.

• What assets your company owns – Phones, tablets, computers, servers (including Cloud).

• Do you have a plan if something happens? Who to call, what you will need?

2

Backups and what you need?

• Now that you know what platforms you have from step one, figure out the data you need to protect.

• Cloud services need to be backed up as well (This is not done for you in most instances).

• Ensure you keep more than one backup and it is off your network to protect you from ransomware or similar attacks.

• Determine how often you need to backup. How much data are you prepared to loose in the event of an issue?

• TEST the backups. Very Important, can you recover back to what you need.

5 6

Passwords

• Do not share passwords for accounts.

• Have unique passwords for each platform. Do not Re-Use passwords.

• Consider using a password manager.

• Register your email accounts to be notified if your account is involved in a breach.

Getting the Basics Right

Forget the flashy solutions, focus on getting these basics right first. It will make all the difference in keeping your organisation safe.

Ensure devices are regularly updated.

• At minimum monthly.

• Why? More than 80% of breaches are due to vulnerabilities that have patches or fixes released for the platforms/software but they had not been installed/applied.

• Updates

Rinse and Repeat

• Unfortunately like a lot of things in life, Cybersecurity is not just a do once activity.

• We are human and do human things, and over time mistakes get made.

• Aim to have continuous processes and periodic checkups.

3

Antivirus protection

• Now that you know what assets you have, ensure you have an antivirus solution on all devices.

• This includes Mobile devices (Phones, tablets).

• What should you get? Don’t use a free Antivirus, invest in a quality platform. It could be the difference between being a victim of a breach or not.

4

Multifactor Authentication

• Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) means having additional security verification additional to a password.

• This is a must. Passwords can be guessed or breached.

• MFA should be turned on for every platform where available.

• If a platform you use can not use MFA, this is a risk to your business.

7 8

Awareness Training

• Your staff are your biggest assets against cyber threats.

• If you don’t invest in your staff and help them be more informed and better able to act they could become your biggest risk.

• Any training in this area with staff is better than none but don’t make it a once-a-year event and then ignore it.

Reduce your digital footprint

• Have websites cleaned up and backend content or apps that are not used removed.

• Unnecessary apps or webpages will leave you open to unnecessary risks.

• Disable accounts on applications or sites that are no longer required.

• Ensure that all old staff accounts on servers/ systems have passwords reset and locked down to prevent potential use.

About AISA: As a nationally recognised peak body for cyber security professionals, the Australian Information Security Association (AISA) champions the development of a robust information security sector by building the capacity of professionals, advancing the cyber security and safety of the Australian public as well as businesses and governments.

AGREEMENTS

On 6 December 2023 Dead for Good!

By Chris Delaney, ASIAL Workplace Relations Advisor

Provisions of the Secure Jobs and Better Pay legislation amended the Fair Work Act 2009 (the FW Act) bringing to an end Enterprise Agreements known as “Zombie Agreements”.

A Zombie Agreement is an industrial instrument (an agreement) between an employer and its employees entered into before the commencement of the FW Act in 2009.

Employers need to establish if they have a “Zombie Agreement” so that they can develop an appropriate strategy for their business moving forward. Signs that an agreement is a Zombie Agreement include:

• the agreement was made prior to 2010;

• the agreement is called a “collective agreement” or “workplace agreement” or “Australian Workplace Agreement”; or

• the agreement refers to the Workplace Relations Act 1996 (Cth), the Office of the Employment Advocate, the Workplace Authority, the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, or the Australian Fair Pay Commission.

Although well past their nominal expiry date, these agreements were able to remain lawful until varied or terminated by the parties, provided that the base rate in the agreement did not fall below the base rate in the applicable modern award.

Many of these agreements have rates of pay and conditions far less favourable than those in modern awards, including flat rates of pay, no overtime or penalty rates. It is highly unlikely that some would pass a Better Off Overall Test (BOOT) today.

Many security industry employers have contracts with clients based on prices enabled by the Zombie Agreement. Unless the security provider can renegotiate the contract with the client few will be able to service their contracts without making a loss.

SUNSETTING

The sunset period commenced on 7 December 2022 and will cease on 6 December 2023 when all remaining “Zombie Agreements” will automatically terminate, unless that period is extended following an application to the FWC.

Employers are required to give at least 6 months written notice to employees that the Enterprise Agreement will terminate in accordance with the FW Act. Therefore,

It will be necessary for those security providers with Zombie Agreements to ensure their clients understand that costs will increase and where contracts are without escalation clauses renegotiation will be necessary.

employees must be advised in writing no later than 6 June 2023 that the agreement will cease to operate or that the employer will be seeking an extension.

Employers may seek an extension of up to 4 years by applying to the Fair Work Commission (FWC). However, to grant an extension the FWC needs to be satisfied either that bargaining for a new agreement has commenced, or that the Zombie Agreement would leave employees better off overall than the relevant modern award.

We do not yet know all of the factors that the FWC will consider when approving an extension to a Zombie Agreement. However, the FWC is required to publish its reasons and we believe that as applications are made and determined, we will be able to provide members with more detailed information on the FWC’s decision-making process.

If you want the Zombie Agreement to continue you must apply for an extension on or before 6 December 2023. The Commission will decide whether or not to grant the extension.

You must include a copy of the Zombie Agreement with your extension application.

Your application must specify whether bargaining is occurring for a new agreement or whether the employee/s are better off overall if the Zombie Agreement continued to apply than if the relevant modern award applied.

So, if you do not want the agreement to apply after 7 December 2023, you don’t have to do anything. The agreement will automatically terminate and you must then apply Modern award conditions and rates of pay to employees.

WHAT WILL BE THE EFFECT OF THESE CHANGES ON EMPLOYERS?

As stated earlier many of these agreements have provided security employers with commercial advantages when it comes to pricing contracts. And many clients have awarded contracts on price. This model is likely to change dramatically for both the security provider and the client.

It will be necessary for those security providers with Zombie Agreements to ensure their clients understand that costs will increase and where contracts are without escalation clauses renegotiation will be necessary.

Apart from the sunsetting of Zombie Agreements the changes to the FW Act offer more opportunities for employees and their representatives to commence bargaining for new Enterprise Agreements, including MultiEmployer Agreements.

The changes to the FW Act may also encourage employers, employees and unions to commence negotiations for a replacement enterprise agreement, with bargaining commencing before the Zombie terminates.

WHAT SHOULD EMPLOYERS WITH A ZOMBIE AGREEMENT DO?

Check the pay and conditions in the Agreement against the relevant Modern Award to determine whether your business will operate cost effectively after December 2023.

Decide if it may be better to commence bargaining for a replacement agreement now instead of waiting, remembering that Award rates of pay will increase on 1 July 2023 and bargaining for Multi-Employer Agreements will likely commence no later than June 2023.

Alternatively if you decide that employees are better off overall under the Zombie Agreement in comparison to the modern award, make an application for an extension.

Notify employees in writing before 6 June 2023 that their Zombie Agreement will terminate unless an application for extension is made.

The changes to the FW Act passed by federal parliament in December 2022 are the most significant in the last 20 years and the full effects will not be known until the Fair Work Commission determines cases that come before it seeking interpretations, decisions and determinations.

Realising that there can be no question that wages have not kept pace with cost of living increases and inflation, we can only expect that there will be significant pressure on employers to negotiate increases in wages and guarantees of job security. This has already commenced, with some larger security providers completing enterprise agreement negotiations.

ASIAL will continue to provide information to members in a timely manner, often through First Alert eNewsletters. Further information in the form of webcasts, podcasts and bulletins can be found on ASIAL’s website.

If you have any concerns or questions contact ASIAL’s Workplace Relations Advisor ir@asial.com.au.

Note: The information provided above is for convenient reference only. ASIAL and Chris Delaney & Associates Pty Ltd provide this information on the basis that it is not intended to be relied upon in any cases, as the circumstances in each matter are specific. Accordingly, we provide this information for general reference only, but we advise you to take no action without prior reference to a workplace relations specialist.

RECOGNITION PROGRAM

The ASIAL member recognition program acknowledges longstanding members of the Association. We would like to congratulate the members to have recently achieved the following recognition levels:

CATEGORIES: PLATINUM – 25 YEARS +

SILVER

Adrian John Turner

– 16 – 24 YEARS SILVER – 11 – 15 years

Alvin Paul Garner T/a Cairns One Security

Core Protective Group Duncan James Harrison T/a Guardall

– 6 – 10 years

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS

ASIAL welcomes the following members who have recently joined the Association.

NEW CORPORATE MEMBERS

NEW PROVISIONAL CORPORATE MEMBERS

TO FULL CORPORATE

ASIAL GRADED SECURITY MONITORING CENTRES*

List current as at 21 March 2023

The ASIAL Graded monitoring centres above have been inspected and graded for compliance with the applicable Australian Standard: AS 2201.2 – 2004 or AS 2201.2 – 2022.

PLEASE NOTE: ASIAL takes no responsibility for companies which may change the nature of their operations subsequent to Grading.

ASIAL CERTIFIED REDUNDANT MONITORING CENTRES

List current as at 21 March 2023

These Centres have been certified as Redundant Monitoring Centres in accordance with the current versions of the ASIAL documents: ‘Redundant Centres – Background’ and ‘Redundant Centres – Requirements and Testing’.

TEAM Software by WorkWave is the leading provider of financial, operations and workforce management solutions built to reduce risk and costs whilst driving efficiency, profitability and growth.

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With constant innovation, we’re helping solve the biggest challenges security companies face today –and what’s coming next.

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Stay tuned for exciting news in 2023. teamsoftware.com/security-software

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Stay tuned for exciting news in 2023. teamsoftware.com/security-software

Stay tuned for exciting news in 2023. teamsoftware.com/security-software

JOIN THE FOREFRONT OF THE INDUSTRY

FROM LIGHT TO INTELLIGENT PIXELS

A Manual for Digital Video Surveillance and AI Applications

by world renowned CCTV expert Vlado Damjanovski

Following on from the international success of his previous works, ASIAL has commissioned world renowned CCTV expert Vlado Damjanovski to prepare a new reference manual on IP video surveillance systems and CCTV technology. The new manual will cover, as well as well-explained and illustrated material of the basic concepts, additional material on video management software and the cloud concepts, video analytics with artificial intelligence, the new AS/NZS 62676 standards, compression algorithms, thermal imaging and much more.

Available at the ASIAL shop: asial.com.au

Published by

A comprehensive 689 page manual covering digital video surveillance and AI applications, including:

• Units of measurement Light

• Optics in CCTV Television

• CCTV cameras Displays

• Recognising objects Digital CCTV

• Video management systems

• Video content analytics and AI

• Transmission media

• Networking in IP CCTV Auxiliary equipment in CCTV

• System design

• The new IP VSS Standards Test chart for objective analysis