A Baseline Security Clearance is the entry-level security clearance required for individuals who need access to information classified up to PROTECTED. It is essential for those working in government roles or for organisations involved in handling sensitive government materials.

What is Baseline Security Clearance?

• Baseline Security Clearance grants access to information and resources classified as PROTECTED.
• It is the most basic level of security clearance managed by the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).
• Required for roles that involve limited access to sensitive but not highly classified information.

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 will be verified by your employer or the sponsoring entity before applying for the clearance.
• Checkable Background: AGSVA must be able to verify your background, including employment history, residential addresses, and any relevant personal details.
• Sponsorship: You must be sponsored by a government department or an authorised organisation. You cannot apply for clearance independently.

Pre-Application Employment Screening

Before the application process can begin, you must complete an Employment Screening Check. This includes:

• 100-point ID check
• National Police Clearance
• Right to Work in Australia verification

Your employer or sponsoring entity will usually facilitate this process, ensuring all checks are completed before submitting the clearance request.

Documents Required for Baseline Clearance

When applying for a Baseline Security Clearance, you are required to submit several personal documents to verify your identity and background. The typical documents include:

• Full Birth Certificate: Must include at least one parent’s details.
• Proof of Australian Citizenship: If born overseas, an Australian citizenship certificate is required.
• Current Photo Identification: This can be a government-issued ID such as a driving licence or passport.
• Employment History: Records covering your employment over the past 5 years, including job titles, dates of employment, and company details.
• Residential Address History: A record of your residential addresses for the past 5 years.

In some cases, financial information may also be required. This includes details of debts, loans, or any outstanding financial obligations, though this is less common for Baseline clearances.

The Application Process

1. Sponsorship Request: Your employer or the sponsoring entity submits a request to AGSVA on your behalf. You cannot apply for the clearance on your own.
2. Access to the myClearance Portal: After the request is submitted, you will receive access to the myClearance portal, where you can fill out the application form and upload required documents.
3. Application Submission: You have 20 business days to complete and submit the application. Make sure you gather all the necessary documentation in advance to avoid delays.
4. Vetting Assessment: Once your application is submitted, AGSVA will perform background checks. This may include contacting referees and, if necessary, conducting interviews to verify details.
5. Decision: After all information has been assessed, a decision-maker at AGSVA will approve or deny the clearance. You will be notified through your employer or sponsoring entity.

Fees for Baseline Clearance

• The fee for applying for a Baseline Security Clearance is AUD 884 (inclusive of GST).
• If you are applying through your employer, your employer will typically cover the cost of the application.
• If you are applying for a security clearance through a sponsoring entity, you are responsible for paying the fee once the clearance has been granted by AGSVA
• The listed fee of AUD 884.00 covers only the AGSVA charge for processing the Baseline security clearance. Additional costs, including sponsorship fees, employment screening checks, and application handling fees, may apply and are charged separately by your sponsoring specialist. Please contact your sponsoring specialist for a detailed breakdown of all associated fees.

Waiting Times

The time it takes to process a Baseline Security Clearance can vary depending on individual circumstances and the complexity of your background. Typical waiting times include:

• 5–10 business days for AGSVA to issue the security clearance application.
• 20 business days for the applicant to complete and submit the application.
• 20 business days for AGSVA to complete the vetting process.

On average, it takes about 5–10 weeks from the start of the process until a final decision is made.

What Happens if Your Clearance is Delayed or Denied?

Clearances may take longer or be denied for various reasons, including incomplete documentation, issues with your background check, or delayed responses from referees. If your clearance is denied, you have the right to request a review of the decision. Your employer or sponsoring entity will guide you through the review process if needed.

Maintaining Your Baseline Security Clearance

Once granted, a Baseline Security Clearance is valid as long as you remain in a role that requires it. However, you are required to inform AGSVA of any significant changes to your personal circumstances, such as changes in financial status, personal relationships, or extensive travel. Clearances may need to be revalidated periodically to ensure that you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

For more information, speak with your employer or email AusClear