A security clearance assessment is conducted by the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) to evaluate an individual’s eligibility and suitability to hold a security clearance.
Under the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF), an individual that needs ongoing access to security classified resources must hold a security clearance at the appropriate level.
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for an Australian Government security clearance, an individual must:
- be an Australian citizen
- have a checkable background.
A sponsoring entity can waive these requirements if there is an exceptional business need and a risk assessment is conducted. However, this is not a guarantee that a security clearance will be granted.
Suitability
An individual must also be suitable to hold a security clearance. This is determined by conducting checks as prescribed by the PSPF. An assessment of the clearance applicant’s overall integrity is made using the following character traits:
- honesty
- trustworthiness
- maturity
- tolerance
- resilience
- loyalty.
Sponsorship
All security clearances must be sponsored by a government or business entity. Individuals cannot sponsor their own security clearance.