PSP40316 Certificate IV in Government Security

About this Qualification

Government security work carries real responsibility. You protect sensitive information, uphold public service values and help your agency meet its legal and policy obligations.

PSP40316 Certificate IV in Government Security recognises the skills to do this work without supervision in a government security environment. You’ll learn to analyse security risk, put treatments in place, develop and advise on security procedures, brief colleagues and build security awareness across your workplace. You’ll also build skills in interviewing, inspections, compliance assessment and investigation.

AFSI is an ADF veteran-owned registered training organisation that has specialised in government security, investigations and risk training since 1994. Our assessments use realistic Commonwealth scenarios built around the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) and the legislation you work with.

Who this course suits

This course suits people working in, or moving into, operational government security roles, including:

• APS staff with security responsibilities
• Commonwealth contractors
• defence industry personnel

How your course runs

Stage 1: Prepare online (6 weeks)
Complete your knowledge assessments in the learning portal (aXcelerate), at your own pace. If you are applying for RPL, this is also when you submit your evidence.

Stage 2: Face-to-face classes (5 days)
Five days of practical, scenario-based classes with your trainer. Choose a virtual classroom through Microsoft Teams, or an in-person classroom at our Fyshwick training facility.

Stage 3: Finish online (your pace)
Complete your remaining self-paced online learning and assessments to finalise your qualification. You have up to 12 months from enrolment to complete everything.

The face-to-face classes are where you practise security scenarios with your trainer, so this qualification isn’t offered fully self-paced.

Units of Competency

To complete the qualification, you’ll complete the 14 units below.

Core Units (3)

• PSPETH002 Uphold and support the values and principles of public service
• PSPLEG002 Encourage compliance with legislation in the public sector
• PSPSEC009 Handle sensitive information

Elective Units (11)

• BSBWHS301 Maintain workplace safety
• PSPREG012 Gather information through interviews
• PSPREG005 Assess compliance
• PSPGEN026 Provide input to change processes
• PSPINV002 Conduct an investigation
• PSPREG013 Undertake inspections and monitoring
• PSPSEC005 Undertake government security risk analysis
• PSPSEC006 Implement security risk treatments
• PSPSEC007 Develop and advise on government security procedures
• PSPSEC010 Provide government security briefings
• PSPSEC015 Communicate security awareness

Already experienced?

If you already have the skills this course covers, you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning (RPL). Partial RPL recognises skills you already hold, based on evidence you provide during your course. For full RPL, email your duty statement, current CV and any relevant qualifications (with transcripts) to reception@afsi.com.au, and we’ll contact you to talk through your options.

Full RPL candidates receive 50% off the course fee.

If you’ve completed any of these units before, in another qualification, you may be eligible for credit transfer. Send your transcript to reception@afsi.com.au.

Serving or served in the ADF or AFP?

AFSI is ADF veteran-owned, and we know how much your service experience is worth. Current and former ADF and AFP members receive a $500 discount. Send your Service Record to reception after you apply, and ask us about RPL.

Who can apply

Open to Australian citizens and permanent residents living in Australia. Please send proof of citizenship or residency when you apply. AFSI is not a CRICOS provider, so we can’t enrol international students.

What you will achieve

When you successfully complete all 14 units, you’ll receive the nationally recognised PSP40316 Certificate IV in Government Security. If you only complete some units, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment for the units you complete.

Your next step: build on this qualification with PSP50316 Diploma of Government Security.

How to apply

• Apply online. Choose a course date below and select ‘Enrol Myself’ to submit your enrolment application.
• Complete a short language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) quiz. It helps us plan any support you need.
• Receive your acceptance and invoice. We confirm your place and send details of your training, fees and obligations.
• Pay your invoice in full. Your enrolment is then confirmed, and you’ll receive access to the learning portal (aXcelerate).

2027 course dates

Each course starts with 6 weeks of self-paced online learning, followed by 5 days of face-to-face classes. Choose a date that suits you and select ‘Enrol Myself’ to apply.

The end date shown for each course is the last date to complete your qualification. Can’t see a date that suits you? Call 02 6106 9332.