5 Ways on How to be a Detective Australia

5 Ways on How to be a Detective Australia
how to be a detective australia

If you’re planning to start your detective or private investigator career in Australia, there are a few things you need to know first in order to successfully gauge your way into the industry.


Although it’s not an easy career choice, many people are interested in becoming detectives or private investigators because of the excitement, challenge and potential rewards that come with the job. But, it’s important to stay realistic to your career goals and understand that this industry also comes with a great deal of responsibility.


If you think you have what it takes to be a successful detective or private investigator in Australia, here are a few tips on what you need to know.

5 Ways to Become a Detective or Private Investigator in Australia

1. Get the right qualifications

You will need to complete the Certificate III course in Investigative Services from an RTO (recognized training organization) in order to become a private or detective in Australia. Some known organization is the TAFE or ASSI (The Australian School of Security and Investigations).

To obtain a license, you must first complete an accredited Certificate III in Investigative Services or a similar qualification. Once you have completed your studies, you will then need to apply for a PIL from your state or territory’s business licensing authority.

2. Be prepared for the challenges

Working as a detective or private investigator can be both mentally and physically demanding, so it’s important that you are prepared for the challenges that come with the job.

You will need to have excellent problem-solving skills, as well as being able to think on your feet and act quickly in difficult situations. You will also need to be physically fit, as the job often requires you to undertake surveillance work.

3. Have a clean criminal history

You will need to complete the Certificate III course in Investigative Services from an RTO (recognized training organization) in order to become a private or detective in Australia. Some known organization is the TAFE or ASSI (The Australian School of Security and Investigations).

To obtain a license, you must first complete an accredited Certificate III in Investigative Services or a similar qualification. Once you have completed your studies, you will then need to apply for a PIL from your state or territory’s business licensing authority.

2. Be prepared for the challenges

Working as a detective or private investigator can be both mentally and physically demanding, so it’s important that you are prepared for the challenges that come with the job.

You will need to have excellent problem-solving skills, as well as being able to think on your feet and act quickly in difficult situations. You will also need to be physically fit, as the job often requires you to undertake surveillance work.

3. Have a clean criminal history

One of the requirements for obtaining a PIL is that you have a clean criminal history. This means that you cannot have any convictions for offences relating to fraud, violence, drug use or sexual offences.

So, make sure that you don’t get yourself involve into some shady business or have any run-ins with the law before you apply for your PIL. This is important since you’ll be conducting investigations into other people’s lives and crimes, and you need to be able to demonstrate that you’re trustworthy and ethical.

4. Build up your experience

While you are studying for your Certificate III in Investigative Services or similar qualification, it’s a good idea to start building up your experience in the industry by working as an intern or volunteer for a detective agency or private investigator firm.

This will give you a taste of what the job is like and help you to develop the skills and knowledge that you need to be a successful detective or private investigator.

5. Join a professional association

One of the best ways to build up your experience, network with other professionals and keep up-to-date with industry news is to join professional associations to build your local and industry networks.

Being a member of a professional association will also give you access to exclusive training and development opportunities, which can help you to further your career.

These are just a few tips on what you need to know if you’re interested in becoming a detective or private investigator in Australia. If you have the right qualifications, experience and attributes, then this could be the perfect career for you.

What do Detectives and Private Investigators Do?

man checking paperworks

Detectives and private investigators are responsible for conducting investigations into crimes, accidents and missing persons. They collect evidence, take statements from witnesses and suspects, and prepare reports for their clients.

In some cases, they may also be required to testify in court.

But most commonly, they work on behalf of private individuals or businesses to investigate cases of fraud, theft, embezzlement, cheating spouses and missing persons.

If you’re thinking about all the detective stuff you see on TV, then you’re not too far off. But in reality, the job is often a lot less exciting – and a lot more paperwork intensive!

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Detective or Private Investigator?

In order to be a successful detective or private investigator, you will need to have excellent problem-solving skills, as well as being able to think on your feet and act quickly in difficult situations.

Here are some basic skills that you will need:

Good communication skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for detectives and private investigators, as they often have to take statements from witnesses and suspects. They also need to be able to communicate their findings to their clients in a clear and concise manner.

Plus, if you’re working on a case that requires you to go undercover, then you’ll need to be able to convincingly play a role and not give yourself away.

Observation skills

A large part of being a detective or private investigator is observing people and trying to spot clues that others might miss. So, you will need to have sharp observation skills and pay attention to even the smallest details.

Analytical skills

In order to be successful in this role, you will need to be able to analyze data, identify patterns and draw conclusions from your findings. This means that you need to have strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

You will need to be able to work independently

As a detective or private investigator, you will often have to work on your own for long periods of time. This means that you need to be able to stay motivated and focused, even when there is no one else around to give you direction.

Start your Detective or Private Investigator Career

If you’re interested in becoming a detective or private investigator, then there are a few different ways that you can start your career.

At Sydney Private Investigator, we hire both inexperienced and experienced individuals. We also offer on-the-job training for those who are new to the industry.

For more information about our services, or to find out how you can start your career as a detective or private investigator, contact us today at 1300 721 715 or email us at info@triumphdetectives.com.au to speak to one of our friendly team members.