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ALIT College | Updated 29 September 2026
Certificate II in Security Operations (CPP20218) is the entry-level training pathway discussed in this series. Certificate III in Security Operations (CPP31318) is a further-study option for people who already hold a current security officer licence in the relevant jurisdiction. A higher certificate does not replace licensing or automatically lead to a promotion.
The main differences
| Consideration | Certificate II | Certificate III |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification | CPP20218 Security Operations | CPP31318 Security Operations |
| Main purpose | Foundation skills for entry-level security work | Broader operational skills and team leadership |
| Entry distinction | ALIT requires age 18 or over, Year 10 or equivalent and suitability review | Current security officer licence in the relevant jurisdiction is required |
| Structure | 14 core units, including First Aid | 14 units: 8 core and 6 electives |
| ALIT availability in this article | Alice Springs course with monthly intakes | Further-study option only |
When Certificate II is the relevant starting point
If you are new to security work, first understand the training and licence required for the duties you want to perform. In the NT, CPP20218 is the current Certificate II pathway listed in government training guidance. Completing the training is followed by a separate licence application and assessment of your eligibility.
ALIT’s Alice Springs program runs over 18 days, combining one live online class, online self-study and three face-to-face practical days, including First Aid. Monthly intakes are available. Speak with ALIT about admission and the next timetable.
When to consider Certificate III
Consider further study when you can identify the skills you want to develop and how they relate to your work. For example, you may want to improve how you coordinate a response, support a team or organise security information. Discuss the available units and learning outcomes with a provider that offers CPP31318.
The national qualification requires a current security officer licence in the relevant jurisdiction. Having a Certificate II alone does not satisfy that licensing requirement. The qualification also states that it does not provide the competencies required for an initial security officer licence.
Questions to ask a Certificate III provider
- Is CPP31318 on your current scope, and are you accepting students in a delivery mode and location I can attend?
- Which elective units do you deliver, and how do they relate to my intended work?
- What licence evidence and other admission information do you require?
- What are the full fees, timetable and assessment requirements?
- Can any previous units or experience be recognised, and what evidence would you need?
Do not assume that completing Certificate II automatically reduces the Certificate III duration or fee. The receiving provider must assess any credit transfer or recognition of prior learning. Get its decision before relying on a shortened study plan.
Further study and career progression
A qualification is one part of a career decision. Look at the duties and selection criteria of roles you want, and ask employers which skills or experience they value. Further study can be worthwhile when it addresses a specific gap; the certificate level alone does not determine your pay or position.
Specialist duties may have additional training and licensing requirements. Confirm these with the relevant authority and employer before choosing a course based on a proposed job outcome.
What ALIT is offering
This article presents CPP31318 as a further-study option only. It is not an advertisement for an ALIT Certificate III intake, a package of two courses or guaranteed progression. Contact ALIT about CPP20218 in Alice Springs, and check the national register to find providers offering Certificate III.
Frequently asked questions
Can I enrol in Certificate III immediately after Certificate II?
Not on the strength of the Certificate II alone. CPP31318 requires a current security officer licence in the relevant jurisdiction, and the receiving provider checks admission.
Does Certificate III replace an NT security licence?
No. Licensing remains separate, and you must hold the authorisation appropriate to your duties.
Does Certificate III guarantee a supervisor role or higher pay?
No. Employers assess the role requirements, your experience and suitability. Pay also depends on the applicable employment arrangements.
Is this a combined ALIT course package?
No. ALIT’s course discussed here is CPP20218 in Alice Springs. Certificate III is presented only as a possible future study option.
Ask ALIT about the next intake
For CPP20218 in Alice Springs, call (03) 9917 5018 or email marketing@alit.edu.au. Ask for the next monthly intake, timetable and enrolment information.
View the ALIT Alice Springs course page
Related ALIT guides
- What Certificate II in Security Operations covers in Alice Springs
- How to apply for an NT security licence after Certificate II
- Jobs after Certificate II in Security Operations in the NT
- Entry requirements for Certificate II Security in Alice Springs
Sources and further reading
CPP20218 national qualification
CPP31318 national qualification
CPP31318 qualification specification
NT security training requirements
Sources checked 29 September 2026. Confirm current licensing requirements with Licensing NT.
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