Certificate IV in Government Security (Personnel Vetting)

Learners will develop the capability to gather, analyse, and verify information to assess personnel risk, prepare detailed reports, and support security clearance processes. The program also strengthens communication, analytical, and decision-making skills needed to handle complex and confidential information within government standards.

Graduates will be equipped to perform as Personnel Vetting Officers, Security Assessment Advisors, or Integrity Analysts, supporting government and defence agencies to maintain workforce trust, compliance, and national security objectives.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Conduct personnel security assessments — Evaluate applicants or employees through interviews, background checks, and risk-based screening in line with government security policy.
• Analyse and interpret sensitive information — Gather, verify, and manage confidential data in accordance with privacy, ethical, and legislative requirements.
• Assess security risks and integrity indicators — Identify vulnerabilities in personnel suitability and apply sound judgment when recommending employment or clearance outcomes.
• Apply legislation, ethics, and public-sector values — Ensure all vetting and security processes meet organisational, ethical, and legal standards.
• Communicate findings effectively — Prepare clear, defensible reports and briefings to support decision-makers and maintain transparency in the vetting process.
• Manage conflict and complex stakeholder interactions — Use advanced communication and negotiation techniques to resolve issues and maintain professional integrity.
• Promote a security-aware workplace culture — Contribute to organisational trust, resilience, and compliance through ongoing education and awareness of personnel security responsibilities.
• Communicate and collaborate across government agencies — Use advanced communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement strategies to manage complex security and compliance issues.

This qualification is ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in personnel vetting, security assessment, or government integrity management. It is particularly suited to individuals working within or alongside government agencies responsible for assessing workforce suitability, managing clearances, and protecting the integrity of public sector employment.

The program equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to conduct background checks, analyse personal and professional information, and apply risk-based judgment to determine suitability for employment or security clearance. Graduates will be prepared to work across government, defence, and contracted security organisations, contributing to trusted, compliant, and secure workforce outcomes.

This qualification is designed for current and aspiring government employees, former public servants transitioning to civilian roles, and professionals seeking to enter personnel vetting or security compliance positions within the public sector, includes:

• Government employees,
• Ex-Government employees, or
• Those seeking a career change into Government employment positions.

The following employment pathways across may be available to students who complete this program:

• Government security officer,
• Government compliance officer,
• Government fraud control officer, or
• Government personnel vetting officer.

Study pathways from other qualifications into this program:

Pathways from this program to other qualifications or employment opportunities:

The units within this qualification may provide credit towards a range of other related qualifications.

Not applicable.

To enrol, you must have:

• Residency in Western Australia with proof of a local residential address.
• Legal right to work in Australia.
• Must have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) number.
• Minimum age requirement is 18 years to complete this course.
• Sufficient identification for proof of identity.
• Applicants must demonstrate sufficient Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills required for the course. An LLND assessment may be conducted at pre-enrolment to assess whether the applicant requires LLND support for this training skills, in line with qualification that you are undertaking.
• Be able to meet inherent physical requirements for the job role (standing, manual handling, PPE).

Delivery model: Typically, five (5) day block of face-to-face classroom delivery with self-directed learning of up to 173 hours of home study and two (2) to five (5) further contact days; blended options may apply.

Learning activities: Tutorials, workshops, case studies, videos, simulated screening, and—where available—workplace application.

Enterprise delivery: On-site airport training across WA is available (course duration may be adjusted for experienced staff).

Training and assessment is conducted in accordance with the Standards for RTOs 2025.

In line with training package requirements, you must complete six (6) core units and five (5) elective units.

Core Units

PSPETH003 Promote the values and ethos of public service

PSPLEG003 Promote compliance with legislation in the public sector

PSPSEC011 Assess security risks

PSPSEC012 Develop security risk management plans

PSPSEC013 Implement and monitor security risk management plans

PSPSEC014 Coordinate protective security

Elective Units

BSBWHS501 Ensure a safe workplace

PSPGEN050 Manage conflict

PSPGEN054 Use complex workplace communication strategies

PSPGEN058 Coordinate risk management

CPPSEC5008 Analyse threat environment and devise strategies to respond to active threats

The RTO will issue the learner with a testamur for the training completed: 

• PSP40316 Certificate IV in Government Security (Personnel Vetting)

The learner will receive this either on completion of the course in person or in the mail within 30 days of the course completion.

The RTO must not issue AQF certificates unless the student has been assessed competent in all required units within the qualification. The issuance of a certificate will also be subject to successful enrolment, payment of fees prior to issue.

Core Training Group is committed to providing inclusive and supportive training to all students. As part of this, we aim to ensure prospective students have the language, literacy, numeracy and digital (LLND) skills required to successfully participate in their chosen course.

An LLND test can be administered for students who are unsure about returning to study or want to better understand their current skill level in relation to their prosed course. This helps us identify whether additional support or adjustment may be beneficial and ensures the course is a good fit for the student’s needs.

In context to training offered by Core Training Group, digital literacy requires students are able to operate a device and connect to the internet, access and navigate our LMS, aXcelerate, undertake and respond to general online communication and have a basic knowledge of device and internet troubleshooting.

We recognise the importance of incorporating digital technology into our training resources, in line with training package expectations.  There is no requirement that students use AI at the Certificate II Security Operations level.  Core Training Group provides resources and reading materials from which students can base their assessment answers.

For this reason, students must not use AI to research or answer assessment questions. Suspected use of AI may result in a verbal assessment. If the student cannot clearly and accurately explain their answers, the assessment will be failed. For details, see our AI and Assessment Policies via the link at the bottom of our website.

We recognise that students come from diverse backgrounds, with varying levels of ability, previous education, and life experience. Core Training Group provides flexible and culturally responsive learning environments that are inclusive of all learners and encourage open conversations about learning needs during the enquiry or enrolment process.

While adjustments can be made to training and assessment procedures, we are committed to providing an inclusive learning environment that supports the diverse needs of all learners. Reasonable adjustments may be made to training and assessment methods, learning resources, or delivery approaches to ensure equal access and participation for every student.

Any adjustments implemented will maintain the integrity of the qualification and the competency standards required by industry and employers. This means students must still demonstrate all essential skills and knowledge to the level required for competency.

Reasonable adjustment involves carefully identifying and applying modifications that support individual learning needs without compromising the quality, fairness, or validity of assessment outcomes.

Training at Core Training Group includes a range of practical activities designed to reflect real workplace tasks and environments. Learners may be required to participate in activities that involve standing for extended periods, manual handling, bending, lifting, operating equipment or tools, and performing tasks in simulated or real workplace settings.

While the level of physical activity varies between courses, all learners are expected to demonstrate the capacity to safely complete the practical components of their training. This ensures they can meet the competency requirements and industry standards relevant to their qualification.

Learners with an injury, medical condition, or disability that may affect their participation are encouraged to discuss their individual needs with our team before enrolment. We can explore reasonable adjustments, alternative arrangements, or support options to ensure safe and equitable participation in training and assessment.

At Core, our priority is to maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where every student can develop the practical skills, confidence, and competence required for their chosen career.

At Core Training Group, we understand that personal, financial, and social challenges can affect a learner’s ability to succeed. We provide confidential support and referrals to external services, which may include mental health care and community support. Our staff are trained to recognise when students may need extra help and can assist with navigating or arranging access to these services.

We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment. Our wellbeing and counselling support promote mental health, resilience, and positive learning outcomes. Training and assessment are designed to ensure equal access for all learners, including those facing barriers such as disability, cultural background, or geographic isolation.

Core proudly collaborates with Aboriginal communities across Western Australia to deliver culturally appropriate training that respects local protocols and supports community development. We also provide reasonable adjustments and accessibility options to ensure students with disabilities can fully participate in their learning.

Through inclusive practices and strong community partnerships, Core aims to empower every learner to overcome challenges, achieve competency, and reach their educational and career goals.

Full policies (fees, refunds, RPL, complaints) are accessible in the Student Handbook or on the website.