Guide for applying for a security clearance
Introduction
The NSW Explosives Regulation provides for the provision of a Security Clearance (SC) (previously called an Unsupervised Handling Licence (UHL)). The SC is a precondition of all explosives licences except the fireworks (single use) licence and the SC itself. This guide provides applicants with information to complete the Application for a security clearance form.
Under the NSW Explosives Act, if the regulations require a licensed person to handle explosives and explosives precursors, it is an offence for an unlicensed person to handle such material.
Licence conditions
The NSW Explosives Act provides that the licence holder cannot contravene any conditions to which the licence is subject. The publication General explosive licence and security clearance conditions under the NSW Explosives Act and Regulation outlines the conditions to which a SC holder is subject.
Security clearance authorisations
An SC authorises the holder to handle explosives or explosive precursors, but only in circumstances where the SC holder is under the direction or control (ie an employer or contractor) of another person who holds an explosive licence issued under the Explosive legislation, or where they themselves hold an explosive licence issued under the Explosive legislation.
Explosive precursors
Currently, only security sensitive ammonium nitrate is prescribed as a SSDS. Security Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate (SSAN) is any of the following:
- Ammonium nitrate that is not a dangerous good of class 1 (ie an explosive)
- Ammonium nitrate emulsions, suspensions or gels containing greater than 45 per cent ammonium nitrate
- Ammonium nitrate mixtures containing greater than 45 per cent ammonium nitrate
Who may apply for a security clearance
Age restrictions
Only individuals 18 years of age or over may apply for a SC.
National probity assessment form
The applicant must complete the online national probity assessment (P877) on the new NSW Police Portal. A link to this form will be provided to the applicant, once the Security Clearance application has been received to SafeWork NSW from Australia Post.
The online form will automatically be sent to the NSW Police so that they can confirm the applicant has passed a national probity assessment by Australian Police authorities. The application for a SC cannot be processed until the national probity assessment has been finalised by NSW Police.
The completed P 877 is sent to the NSW Police so that they can confirm the applicant has passed a national probity assessment by Australian Police authorities. The application for a SC cannot be processed until the national probity assessment has been finalised by NSW Police.
Photographs
The SC is a photo licence and the applicant is required to submit, with the application form, two passport size and quality photographs with their name and date of birth on the back of the photographs.
Duration of a security clearance
The licence will last for five years unless cancelled earlier.
How to apply for a security clearance
Complete the application form and lodge at any Australia Post Bank@Post outlet. When lodging the completed application form with Australia Post, the applicant must provide proof of their identity. The application form lists the documents required for the 100 point identity check.
The applicant must then complete the online national probity assessment (P877) via the new NSW Police Portal. A link to this form will be provided to the applicant from SafeWork NSW.
Fee
The fee for a SC is required to be paid at the time of lodging the application with Australia Post. Refer to the SafeWork NSW fees schedule.
Obligations of security clearance holders
Change of details
It is a condition of a SC that the licence holder must notify SafeWork within 14 days of any change in address or employer details. For change of name or address or contact details, use the Application for change of details form.
Additional information
For additional information about applying for a security clearnace, contact SafeWork on 13 10 50.