Baseline Security Clearance
A Baseline Security Clearance is the foundational security vetting level required for individuals needing access to government information classified as PROTECTED.
What is Baseline Security Clearance?
Baseline Security Clearance grants access to information and resources classified as PROTECTED. This clearance is essential for roles within the Australian Government and authorised organisations that handle sensitive information, managed by the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).
It is necessary for positions where:
- Individuals require access to material that could damage national security interests if disclosed.
- Roles in federal government agencies and authorised organisations handling PROTECTED-level sensitive information mandate such clearance.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Baseline Security Clearance, you must meet the following requirements:
Australian Citizenship
You must be an Australian citizen. This is verified by your employer or sponsoring entity.
Checkable Background
AGSVA must verify your background—including identity, employment history, and residential addresses over a relevant period to establish your suitability.
Sponsorship
You must be sponsored by a government department or an authorised organisation. Independent applications are not accepted.
Pre-Application Employment Screening
Before beginning the application process, you must complete an Employment Screening Check, which includes:
100-Point ID Check
Verification of your identity using official Australian documents.
National Police Clearance
Confirmation of your criminal record (or lack thereof).
Right to Work Verification
Proof that you have the legal right to work in Australia.
Your employer or sponsoring entity will ensure that all checks are completed before your clearance request is submitted.
Documents Required for Baseline Clearance
When applying for a Baseline Security Clearance, you must submit several documents to verify your identity and background. These include:
Birth Certificate
Official birth certificate as proof of identity.
Proof of Australian Citizenship
If born overseas, an Australian citizenship certificate is required.
Current Photo Identification
Such as a government-issued ID (driving licence or passport).
Employment History
Records covering your recent employment history, including job titles, dates, and company details.
Residential Address History
A record of your residential addresses for the relevant vetting period.
Character References
Contact details for referees who can attest to your character and background.
The Application Process
Sponsorship Request
Your employer or sponsoring entity submits a request to AGSVA on your behalf. You cannot apply independently.
Access to the myClearance Portal
After the request is submitted, you gain access to the portal where you fill out the application form and upload the required documents.
Application Submission
You have 20 business days to complete and submit your application.
Vetting Assessment
AGSVA conducts a background check, which may include contacting referees and verifying your employment and residential history.
Decision
After assessment, a decision-maker at AGSVA approves or denies the clearance. You will be notified via your employer or sponsoring entity.
Fees for Baseline Clearance
The fee for applying for a Baseline Security Clearance is AUD 884 (inclusive of GST). This fee covers only the AGSVA processing charge.
The payment structure is as follows:
DISP-Accredited Organisations
Organisations with current Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) accreditation that sponsor their own employees are responsible for the AUD 884 AGSVA fee. No additional fees are incurred since the clearance is managed in-house.
Organisations Using a Sponsoring Organisation
Organisations without DISP accreditation that require assistance from a third-party sponsoring organisation are responsible for the AUD 884 fee plus any additional charges levied by the sponsor.
Individuals (Sponsored by an Employer)
For individuals requiring clearance for employment, the employer typically covers the cost—including the AUD 884 fee.
Individuals (Using a Sponsoring Organisation)
If you apply through a third-party sponsoring organisation, you are responsible for the full fee, including the AUD 884 AGSVA charge and any additional fees imposed by the sponsor.
Key considerations:
Sponsoring Organisation Fees
Sponsoring organisations are independent businesses that charge their own fees for their services. These fees are separate from the AGSVA fees and can vary considerably. It is essential to obtain a detailed breakdown of all fees from the sponsoring organisation before engaging their services. DISP-accredited organisations managing their own clearances do not incur these fees.
Background Checks
The costs associated with background checks are typically covered by the party responsible for the AGSVA fee.
Applicant Time
Regardless of fee responsibility, applicants should be prepared to dedicate time and effort to the clearance process.
For cost-related enquiries, DISP-accredited organisations should consult their internal security or HR department. Organisations and individuals using sponsoring organisations should contact their chosen provider for detailed fee information. Individuals requiring a clearance for employment should direct cost questions to their prospective or current employer.
Waiting Times
Typical waiting times for Baseline Security Clearance include:
Application Issuance
5–10 business days for AGSVA to issue the clearance application.
Application Completion
20 business days for the applicant to complete and submit the application.
Vetting Process
AGSVA aims to finalise baseline assessments within 20 business days of receiving a complete application.
On average, the entire process takes around 1–2 months from start to final decision, though this can vary based on individual circumstances.
What Happens if Your Clearance is Delayed or Denied?
Clearances may be delayed or denied due to incomplete documentation, issues uncovered during the background check, or delays in obtaining information from referees.
If your clearance is denied, you have the right to request a review of the decision, with guidance from your employer or sponsoring entity.
Maintaining Your Baseline Security Clearance
Once granted, a Baseline Security Clearance remains valid for 10 years unless revoked. During this period, you must report any significant changes in your personal circumstances (such as changes in financial status, personal relationships, or extensive travel).
AGSVA may conduct periodic reviews or updates to ensure you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion
Baseline Security Clearance is essential for individuals requiring access to PROTECTED-level government information. By understanding the eligibility criteria, required documentation, application process, fees, waiting times, and ongoing maintenance requirements, you can better prepare for obtaining and sustaining this clearance.
This comprehensive guide is designed to simplify the process and keep you well-informed every step of the way.