To become a crowd controller in Queensland, you need to complete the approved security training and apply to the Queensland Office of Fair Trading (OFT) for a Class 1 security provider licence with the crowd controller function. BARS Training Australia delivers the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations, which provides the required training pathway for this licence function. But what exactly is a crowd controller? Under section 5 of the Security Providers Act 1993, a crowd controller is a person who, for reward, keeps order in or about a public place by screening people seeking entry, monitoring or controlling their behaviour, or removing people because of their behaviour.

This means crowd control is certainly not just about being a “bouncer” at a nightclub. Crowd controllers work across licensed premises, shopping centres, sporting events, concerts, festivals and many other public environments. Modern crowd control is primarily about people. You need to communicate effectively, observe behaviour, recognise developing risks, manage conflict and make sensible decisions that achieve safe outcomes for everyone involved. Common sense, confidence, good judgement and knowing when to seek assistance are far more valuable than simply being physically imposing.

Once you complete your training, you must still obtain your security provider licence from OFT before performing crowd control duties for payment or reward. BARS guides students through that licensing process during their course. Our aim is not to produce old-fashioned “bouncers”; it is to train professional crowd controllers who understand people, recognise risk and contribute positively to community safety.