Australian security guard rates in 2026 average $48 to $72/hour for standard weekday shifts, rising to $95-$135/hour for public holidays and crowd control.
When procuring security services, Australian business owners and event managers frequently ask: What does it actually cost to hire a licensed security guard in Australia?
1. 2026 National Benchmark Charge-Out Rates#
In 2026, standard commercial static guard charge-out rates across Australia generally range from $48 to $72 per hour plus GST, depending on jurisdiction, shift timing, and risk profile.
| Guard Type / Service | Weekday Daytime | Weeknight (Shift) | Saturday / Sunday | Public Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Static Guard (Level 1-2) | $48 - $58 / hr | $54 - $65 / hr | $68 - $82 / hr | $95 - $125 / hr |
| Crowd Controller / Hospitality | $52 - $62 / hr | $58 - $70 / hr | $72 - $88 / hr | $105 - $135 / hr |
| Mobile Patrol (Per Visit) | $22 - $35 / check | $25 - $40 / check | $30 - $48 / check | $45 - $65 / check |
| Control Room Operator | $55 - $68 / hr | $62 - $75 / hr | $75 - $92 / hr | $110 - $140 / hr |
| Armed Cash-in-Transit (Level 3) | $85 - $130 / hr | $95 - $145 / hr | $120 - $175 / hr | $160 - $220 / hr |
2. Key Cost Drivers Under Modern Awards#
Award Minimums & Statutory Loadings#
The Security Services Industry Award 2020 sets strict base rates, superannuation (11.5%), workcover, and overtime loadings that directly underpin compliant billing rates.
Beware of suppliers quoting under $42/hr for weekday static security. Such rates typically indicate sham contracting, award underpayment, or unlicensed subcontracting.
Statutory Overheads & Risk Factors#
- Public & Products Liability: Standard tier-1 sites require $20M policy coverage.
- State Regulatory Compliance: SLED (NSW), LRD (VIC), OFT (QLD) master licensing levies.
- Officer Welfare & Guard Tracking: Real-time GPS patrol beacons, lone-worker duress monitors, and body-worn cameras.