Security clearances
Many Australian Government roles need a security clearance. Here's how they work and how we can help.
What is a security clearance?
A security clearance shows that a person has been assessed as suitable to access classified government information and resources. Most Australian Government clearances are issued by the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).
The assessment looks at a person's background, identity, citizenship and character. The higher the clearance level, the more detailed the checks.
Key points
- You can't apply for a clearance yourself. It must be sponsored by a government agency or an approved organisation for a role that needs it.
- Australian citizenship is generally required. Exceptions are rare and need a formal eligibility waiver.
- Clearances must be maintained, and are revalidated periodically.
- A clearance can lapse if it is not linked to a sponsoring role.
The four main levels
Baseline
The entry-level clearance. Allows access to information classified up to PROTECTED.
Negative Vetting 1 (NV1)
Allows access to information classified up to SECRET.
Negative Vetting 2 (NV2)
Allows access to information classified up to TOP SECRET.
Positive Vetting (PV)
The highest level. Allows access to TOP SECRET information, including certain caveated and compartmented material.
For employers
Clearance requirements can limit your candidate pool and add time to hiring. We can source candidates who already hold the right clearance, confirm their clearance details before putting them forward, and advise on timing if a new clearance is needed.
Talk to us about a cleared role →For candidates
If you hold a clearance, tell us the level and whether it is active or lapsed when you send your CV. If you don't hold one, many roles will still consider you where the employer is willing to sponsor a new clearance.
Send us your CV →This page is general information only. Clearance requirements are set by the Australian Government and can change. For official, current information, visit theAGSVA website.
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