Yes. A criminal history check is a mandatory part of the Queensland security provider licence application process. The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) submits your application to the Queensland Police Service for the criminal history check and uses this information when assessing whether you are suitable to hold a security licence.

You do not need to go out and obtain your own criminal history check beforehand. OFT manages this as part of the application process and a mandatory criminal history check fee applies. A new check is generally required with an application unless OFT has already conducted one under the relevant legislation within the previous six months. Your criminal history matters because certain recorded convictions for disqualifying offences within the previous 10 years automatically prevent you from holding a security licence. OFT can also consider other relevant matters when determining whether you are an appropriate person to be licensed.

This is one reason BARS encourages prospective students who are concerned about their criminal history to investigate their licensing eligibility before committing significant time and money to training. A restricted licence may also be worth considering in some circumstances because it does not require the full security qualification before application, allowing OFT to undertake its suitability assessment first.