Certificate III Investigative Services

Course code PRS30303

NEEDING A CAREER CHANGE?

THE NEXT TRAINING COURSE FOR PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS COMMENCES IN NOVEMBER 2009 in OUR BRISBANE TRAINING ROOMS.

DO YOU WANT TO BE FINANCIALLY REWARDED AS WELL AS STIMULATED BY THE ONGOING CHALLENGE?

SERIOUS ABOUT AN EXCITING CAREER CHANGE TO THE COVERT WORLD OF THE PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR?
YOU ARE ONLY A FEW STEPS AWAY FROM TURNING YOUR ASPIRATIONS INTO REALITY.

About Certificate III Investigative Services

Some of the skills you will learn include:-

History of the Law, Covert Surveillance techniques, Interviewing Witnesses, Taking statements and Record of Interviews, Gathering Evidence, Operating a surveillance vehicle, Mobile surveillance techniques, Determining methods of investigation, Identifying, collecting and securing evidence, giving evidence in a court of law, and much much more.

Enrolments are currently being accepted and welcomed for our next course commencing November 2009. We are also accepting applications for our ON LINE courses and future face to face training seminars. As the Ceretificate III Investigative Services face to face courses will be conducted over 4 weekends, those currently employed can stay in their current employment until ready to start their new career. Our first two courses for 2008 were an enormous success and congradulations to all students.

For those of you who missed out on this opportunity to start your new career at previous seminars, now is the time to consider enrollment for the next course. Numerous expressions of interest have already been taken.

Save money with ACORP TRAINING

Acorp Training always offer special discounts and rewards as an incentive for those wanting to make the change to this exciting industry. RPL & RCC applications are welcome from those with related industry experience and life skills. Alternately, why not make the change with a friend or spouse? Mutiple enrollments will receive an imediate 10% discount (EACH) and

• We still supply all manuals, discs & templates for you to use throughout your career. We engage the services of an array of Industry Professionals and lecturers dedicated to your success to maintain the reputation of the Investigative Services industry and enhance your prospects of maintaining long term viability in your new career. Additionally, your course fees also include.

All day coffee, tea or fruit juice and either a fruit platter or a selection of yummy biscuits on all "in class training days"

Congratulations to the following students who attended and successfully completed the latest Brisbane Investigative Services course. Each were awarded the Certificate III, PRS30303 qualification and are well on the way to securing their Private Investigator's License. Well Done!

* Mick C.
* Richard H.
* Vitoula B.
* Shelly B.
* Steve J.
* Mark H.
* Trevor C.
* Lucas W.
* Christian C.
* Rob B.
* Troy C

A special thank you also to our guest trainers and assessors throughout the course for your committment and assistance. Abigail, Nicholas, Paul, Brett, Jason and Marie

PAYMENT METHODS ACCEPTED

We accept Credit and Debit Card Payments securely via PayPal. We also accept payment by, Netbank transfers and Direct Deposits, Cheque (subject to clearance) Australian Money Orders and other methods as pre-arranged.

Payment plans are available following receipt of the initial deposit of $400.00 for all in class delivery courses. Confirmation of your enrolment is only made upon receipt of your deposit.

Don’t wait any longer to get started in this exciting industry! There are many regions which need astute, switched on people to become Private Investigators right now! But, places are limited.

Are you looking for a work, with more…. career potential?

Would you like to exceed your own career expectations and provide the added value you are so capable of, in your everyday work activities? Are you competitive, organised and able to complete tasks in a timely manner? Do you enjoy the challenge of something different every day?

Become a Licensed Working Private Investigator!

Course Information

A career as a Private Investigator is both challenging and rewarding. You will operate in the civil investigation Industry conducting non – criminal investigations, in the areas of:

 Public Liability Investigation
 Workers Compensation investigation
 Motor Vehicle accident
 Stolen Motor Vehicles
 Surveillance
 Household general claims (property).
 Compulsory Third Party Motor Vehicle Claims
 Work History Investigation
 Dependency investigation

You can tailor a very successful and rewarding career, in any, or all of the above. These are the money earning investigations. Working in these areas, you can confidently expect to earn well over $50,000+ per year as a professional investigator sought after by many Investigation firms.

Benefits of a Career as a Private Investigator

• Work from home advantages
• Low overheads
• Minimal equipment investment to get started
• Work as little or as much as you decide
• Selective acquisition of assignments
• Your skills are in demand

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the Investigation Program Delivered?

All courses are generally Face to Face delivery unless otherwise specified. Our courses are also available utilising our flexible delivery methods combining face to face instruction, RPL / RCC and/or On Line Training.

On Line Training is available anytime 24 hours a day 365 days per year for your conveinience.

Workshop Training (Face to Face) ie: you complete a series of scenario assignments while receiving valuable face-to-face classroom training. The course reflects real workplace investigations. You receive workbooks relevant to your training and are never asked to learn something that you won’t use in your daily activities as a Private Investigator, or

By enrolling in our modern on line training program. You will have your own personal trainer assigned to you to answer questions, explain techniques and generally guide you through to the successful completion of your training course. The on line method is combined with 2 weekend seminars to complete practical assignments and network with other aspiring Investigators and people with like interests.

Finally, some modules can be completed via the RPL / RCC credit system allowing you to utilise existing skills and training gained in similar areas of the Investigative industry and life skills in general.

Investigations are complex, and take some time to learn. The Academy allows you the opportunity to attend your course over 4 weekend sessions or On Line or a combination of both, for those anxious to “get in and change careers”. This type of training is called Flexible Delivery, allowing students to complete training as quickly or as leisurely as they wish.

There are over 5,000 licensed investigators working in Australia today. Most are employed in Insurance Investigation, otherwise known as Civil Investigation. No two investigations are the same, and the reason you are engaged to undertake work is to, gather all factual evidence relating to a matter or claim, so a solicitor, specialist or claims manager can make a decision about paying, negotiating or denying a claim.

If you like a challenge, and possess an inquiring mind and an ability to make people relax you will excel as a P.I.

Licensing

To become a worker in this industry, you must obtain a license. The minimum qualification needed is Certificate III. You are not employable until you hold that license. Thus prospective employers will not engage your services until you meet the licensing requirement.

The truth is employers receive a lot of applications from unlicensed individuals speculating on the hope that their application will be noticed and the employer will train them for free. Investigation employers are not in the business of training beginners. That is one reason why pre licensing courses were established, to reduce the burden on busy employers. Another reason was to weed out those who seriously believe that civil investigators carry guns, and enforce the law.

What is a Private investigator?

A private investigator is best defined as person who for reward obtains and gives information about another person. The investigator is not a policeman, and operates in the area best described as “civil investigation”; this means undertaking investigations into non – criminal matters.

Private investigators do not carry guns, or undertake dramatic car chases; the work is safe, challenging and very rewarding. Currently in Australia Surveillance Investigators earn between $25.00 and $35.00 per hour and Factual Investigators earn between $28.00 to $40.00 per hour.

What is factual investigation?

Factual investigation is the process of gathering evidence about a matter in dispute, or claimed. It is an open process conducted legally, and involves interviewing witnesses, police, ambulance drivers, workers, motor vehicle drivers, victims, or basically anyone who can assist in determining the facts of the matter. Information is gathered by interviews, taking statements, recording accounts, photographs, obtaining documents of interest, and making an unbiased report.

What is surveillance investigation?

Surveillance is the process of conducting observations on a person, place or thing without their knowledge, so video evidence of the extent of injury, habits, restrictions, actions or comings and goings can be obtained. The surveillance professional is as normal as you are and does not complete survival courses or hide in the jungle wearing camouflage gear. S/he carries no weapons, and is not trained in martial arts for this work.

How do I become an Investigator?

To become a surveillance investigator, you must firstly be over the age of 18, complete a Nationally Recognised Qualification, and then gain a Private Investigators License. The cost of obtaining a Private Investigators license varies between states and is on average $300 – $320 for a three year license. (About $200.00 1 year)

After completing the course you apply for a license through the state licensing authority. The granting of a license takes about 30 days. Acorp Training as a Training Partner of the Australian Security Academy (RTO 30547) is approved for delivery of Nationally Recognised Training in every Australian State and Territory.

Why do I have to be licensed?

Licensing is a system introduced nationally by Australian State Governments, to ensure that only persons, suitable to be investigators, are able to operate within the industry. The granting of a license is proof, that your background and suitability have been checked, and you are an appropriate person to hold a license. You will not be granted a license if you have certain criminal convictions, or are currently bankrupt.

How much does the course cost?

Your investment to participate in the Certificate III program is only $1,495.00.
Successful RPL candidates - price on application following assessment.

You enrol by securing your place on the course with a $400.00 deposit. The balance is payable on commencement of the course or as arranged with us prior to the course commencement. (Enrolment is not confirmed until your deposit is paid and receipted.)

We recommend that you compare our prices and inclusions (value for money) with other Training Organisations offers. We know you will save money with us! While the Certificate III Investigative Services course is by no means the least expensive course in Australia, it is the most comprehensive. Students undertake the program in two separate areas:

1. Factual Investigation – Factual Fraud and Factual Liability.
2. Surveillance Investigation – Covert and Overt surveillance.

All of your learning activities are delivered by practicing and experienced Investigators, qualified in up to date training delivery methods, maximising your potential to excel as an investigation professional. There is no GST on Training or Education.

Who makes a good Investigator?

Investigator’s who excel in their work, are dedicated individuals who possess four major qualities:

1. Honesty and reliability.
2. An inquiring mind.
3. An ability to make people relax.
4. Ability to complete work in a timely fashion.

Your success as a P.I. does not depend on gender, age or country of origin. Females as well as males operate equally successfully as Private Investigators, in the investigation industry in Australia. Insurers today want investigations completed in 14 days, from receipt of instructions, to final report, and updates every three days in the process. If you can meet that challenge you can excel as an investigation professional.

What equipment do I need as an investigator?

An example of an Investigator’s Equipment Requirement is listed below. Equipment requirements vary but this list is a good starting guide.

Surveillance Operative

• Computer (Desktop or Laptop) internet equipped
• Video Camera with the following features
- Minimum 25 X Optical Zoom
- Still Capture Function
- SD Card
- Spare battery
- AV in/out function

• Suitable Vehicle – tinted windows
• Binoculars (8x21 – small & discreet)
• Mobile / Home phone
• Notebook / voice recorder for contemporaneous notes

Desirable Equipment

• Bodycam / Bagcam for discreet filming in specific locations
• Tripod or monopod
• VHS or DVD recorder for transferring evidence from original tape
• Fax machine & Scanner

Factual Operative

• Laptop computer internet equipped
• Portable Printer
• Digital Voice Recorder
• Suitable transport
• Mobile / home phone
• Good quality digital still camera for scene photographs

Desirable Equipment

• Video Camera for video taped interviews
• Tripod
• VHS or DVD recorder for transferring evidence from original tape
• Fax machine & Scanner

Insurance Companies often dictate the equipment requirements for investigators. That equipment will depend upon, how the Client wants an investigation carried out. For Example some Insurers want typed statements taken on the spot, printed for and signed by a witness at that time. Thus a lap top computer, and printer would be required. Others will accept recorded interviews, but they require the use of Verifiable Digital Recorders. In this case statements can be taken, emailed to a typist, typed and sent back at a later date for signing.

Do I have to write reports?

Yes you do, and you will receive extensive training and support for report writing in this course. Do not be concerned about your written English skills at this stage, as your skills will develop rapidly during the course. You learn report formats and the written language used by professional investigators in the Civil Investigation Industry. As a graduate of the Academy you will be able to write the following reports:

What are my employment prospects after the course?

Acorp Training will provide free job placement assistance to all successful students completing the course. We do this through our network of industry associates who give preference to Acorp and Australian Security Academy graduates. Together with our Training Partner, The Australian Security Academy, advertised positions are posted on the Newsletter page of this website. Go to our Newsletter for current and past examples of a wide range of investigation work opportunities.

Additionally, you may also receive on-going work assignments as they become available in your area, through our local Investigation agencies; Acclaim Corporate Services and Modern investigative Solutions. Both agencies give preference to investigators who have attained their qualifications through Acorp.

As with any career, this is a competitive field. Training, persistence and a willingness to succeed will assist you to build a successful career as an investigator. It is a dynamic industry. Workers are constantly being transferred or promoted, reach retirement or leave the industry. Vacancies arise frequently and the Academy is contacted regularly to recommend available licensed investigators.

You receive extensive assistance in commencing your career from Acorp Training. This includes building your portfolio, application writing and employment interview skills, as well as accreditation coaching for individual insurance companies. The Occupational Health and Safety Component of this course applies to every workplace, and accident investigation and prevention skills are valuable to you in any career.

CERTIFICATE III IN INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES

PRS30303 Certificate III in Investigative Services (12 core units and 3 elective units)

PRSIS311A Work effectively in the investigative services industry
PRSIS301A Determine method of investigation
PRSIS302A Compile investigative report
PRSIS303A Provide quality investigative services to clients
PRSIS304A Conduct surveillance
PRSIS305A Organise and operate a surveillance vehicle
PRSIS306A Gather information by factual investigation
PRSIS307A Conduct interviews and take statements
PRSSO302A Maintain a safe workplace and environment
PRSSO306A Maintain effective workplace relationships
PRSSO307A Manage own work performance and development
PRSSO311A Prepare and present evidence in court
PRSIS308A Operate information gathering equipment
PRSIS309A Perform administrative functions
PRSS310A   Use and maintain operational equipment
PRSSO315A Store and protect information
BSBSM301A Research business opportunities
FNSMERC304A Locate subjects

Those little extras from Acorp Training...

We also demonstrate how to make and use specialised equipment such as concealed surveillance cameras in various apparel and accessories to increase your success rate when conducting optical surveillance in difficult situations and locations. We use an array of guest speakers who are practicing professionals in their field of expertise and we are available to our students post graduation for advice and support.

Acorp Training offer a whole lot more than just teaching you the basics...we're your training partners for a better future!

Nationally Recognised Qualification

Upon successful completion of the course, each student will be awarded with a formal certificate, which certifies the modules completed. This Certificate will provide evidence to the Licensing Authority in your State that you have satisfactorily completed the required training to gain your license.

The Certificate will also provide evidence to prospective Employers or your existing Employer that you have satisfactorily completed the required training to prepare you for a position or advancement in your existing workplace. If you think you can establish, operate and earn income from a successful Investigation Business, Acorp are the training professionals to assist you turn that thought into reality.

RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING - STUDENT GUIDE

You can gain a nationally recognised qualification for licensing in any state in Australia through Recognition of Prior Learning and Recognition of Current Competence. To help us assess your eligibility for Certificate III in Investigative Services simply provide us with a comprehensive CV together with copies of any awards, certificates and other qualifications you may hold. The Academy’s RPL assessment panel will then assess your RPL merits and advise you what modules you may qualify for recognition.

It is to each applicant’s benefit to provide as much information as possible at the time of this application to ensure the assessment panel has all relevant information to consider. Other evidence documentation which assists the assessment panel is duty statements, job descriptions, performance review reports and appointment papers.

Remember, RPL is not a test, it is a reflection of your life experiences. We welcome students with not only formal qualifications but also “life qualifications”. If you have any further inquiries in respect to our courses or RPL opportunities please contact the Academy staff. We’re always ready to help you in your pursuit toward that new career.

More Frequently asked Questions

I am an experienced Police Officer; can I get Recognition for Prior Learning?
Yes, just request an RPL kit.

I have several years experience in the Security industry, can I get Recognition for Prior Learning?
Yes, just request an RPL kit.

I come from a Management background, is this experience useful as a Private Investigator?

Absolutely. In fact almost any field of employment or work experience can be an asset to you as a Private Investigator. Private Investigators come from all walks of life so there is no mould to say this experience is better than this person’s experience.

ENQUIRE OR ENROL HERE

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