Yes, but there is an important distinction. In Queensland, working as a monitoring security officer requires the appropriate Class 1 security provider licence with the security officer (monitoring) function. A monitoring security officer can monitor property using electronic equipment such as CCTV, radio systems and remote alarms. Interestingly, the Queensland Office of Fair Trading currently states that no specific training qualification is required to obtain the monitoring security officer licence function itself. The CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations nevertheless provides an excellent foundation for monitoring work because it develops security knowledge and skills including communication, legal responsibilities, risk assessment, client service, access control and incident response.

The national training package also provides a specialist CPPSS00064 Monitoring Centre Operations skill set for people working specifically in monitoring centres. This includes CPPSEC2114 Monitor electronic security equipment and respond to alarm events. Alarm monitoring is much more than sitting in front of a computer waiting for something to happen. Operators may receive alarms from hundreds or thousands of client premises, assess incoming information, communicate with clients, dispatch mobile patrol officers, contact police or emergency services and maintain accurate electronic records of every response. It requires good communication, concentration, judgement and the ability to make sensible decisions quickly.

If you complete CPP20218 with BARS Training Australia, we recommend considering the monitoring function when applying for your Class 1 security provider licence. It can broaden the range of security employment opportunities available to you.