How to become a Private Investigator
Private investigators conduct investigations for clients and prepare evidence for court proceedings. They are often involved with matters of insurance, missing persons and character enquiries. They may hold licences or perform the duties of a process server or private bailiff.
Personal requirements for a Private Investigator
- Good communication skills
- Good observation skills
- Able to work independently or as part of a team
- Able to accept responsibility
- Of sound character, with no criminal or other convictions that would prevent you from getting a private investigators licence
Education & Training for a Private Investigator
To become a private investigator you usually have to complete a VET qualification. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.You can also become a private investigator through a traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.In order to begin work, you need to apply for a licence from the relevant body in your state or territory. You may need to supply a National Police Check.
Additional information
People engaged in security work must be appropriately licensed. For more information, refer to the separate entry for Security Officer. A drivers licence is usually required.
Duties & Tasks of a Private Investigator
Private investigators:
- Conduct surveillance and maintain records
- Seek missing persons and locate witnesses
- Take videos or photographs for use as evidence
- Work undercover in organisations to gather specific information
- Gather information for use in legal proceedings
- Conduct asset and liability checks
- Investigate the theft of private or commercial property
- Provide advice about corporate and personal security
- Investigate insurance or worker's compensation claims
- Prepare reports of investigations
- Take statements from witnesses.
Tasks
- Makes inquiries concerning property and seeks, obtains or supplies information pertaining to the personal character, financial position, occupation or whereabouts of any person.
- Investigates shoplifting, theft, dishonesty or other undesirable conduct.
Working conditions for a Private Investigator
Private investigators work indoors in offices and outdoors conducting surveillance. They may need to travel locally or interstate and often work outside of office hours.
Employment Opportunities for a Private Investigator
Most private investigators are self-employed or work in a small team with other agents. Many private investigators enter the occupation after working in the police or defence forces and work in private agencies and commercial and industrial organisations. Work is mainly generated by the investigation of suspected insurance fraud and location of missing persons.
Specializations
Private Investigator
Private investigators conduct investigations for clients and prepare evidence for court proceedings. They are often involved with matters of insurance, missing persons and character enquiries. They may hold licences or perform the duties of a process server or private bailiff.
Average age
49 years
Future Growth
Strong
Gender Share
28% female
Average full-time
46 hours
Weekly Pay
$1,318
Skill level rating
Lower skill
Unemployment
Average unemployment
Full-Time Share
59% Full-Time
Employment Size
700 workers
Employment by state
ACT: 1.6%
NSW: 39.5%
NT: 0.7%
QLD: 10.7%
SA: 5.2%
TAS: 2.7%
VIC: 29.9%
WA: 9.6%
Age brackets
15-19: 0%
20-24: 1%
25-34: 11.4%
35-44: 22.8%
45-54: 30.5%
55-59: 10.7%
60-64: 12.3%
65 and Over: 11.4%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 20.4%
Bachelor degree: 14.1%
Certificate III/IV: 32.5%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 7.6%
Year 10 and below: 8.8%
Year 11: 3.5%
Year 12: 13.2%
