Locksmiths Guild of Australia Inc.

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Diversity
Honesty is key
How do I become a locksmith?
Apprenticeship information
TAFE course details

The locksmith's job

Think "locksmith" and many people conjure up images of the key cutter at the local shopping centre. This couldn't be further from the truth! Not only do locksmiths duplicate keys using key cutting machines, but more importantly, they are involved in obtaining the best possible security measures for their clients.

Locksmiths are professional tradespeople who evaluate security requirements for a wide range of clients and make, maintain and install the security devices. Locksmiths assess their client's security needs by initially doing security surveys, whether it's for residential, commercial, government premises or automotive security. This would include issues such as working out master key systems, creating restricted areas at office premises, checking the security of all entrances and exit points or assessing car security.

Once the client's needs are understood, locksmiths design and install security lock systems, for example, transponder keys (for high security cars) and master key systems, including digital or electronic locking devices for business or domestic premises.

Locksmiths' tasks vary depending on the area in which they work. As a Locksmith you must generally be able to:

	sell and install high security lock systems and key control systems, window bars, deadlocks and keyless entry locks
	repair, replace or adjust damaged or defective components of entrance/exit doors, including door closers, hinges, electronic release mechanisms and sometimes the door itself
	change lock key combinations by inserting new pins into locks
	design complex master key systems for industry, governments and institutions
	determine security requirements through on-site inspection and risk assessment by customer consultation
	design or recommend appropriate systems such as safes, strongrooms, master key systems, alarms or door and window locks
	install, replace and maintain locking systems, alarms and access control systems
	repair jammed, worn or damaged locks by manipulating, dismantling, repairing or replacing defective parts
	sell locks, safes and associated hardware
	keep records of specifications of installed locking systems
	design and construct master key systems manually or by computer
	design and install electronic alarm systems

Locksmiths are employed by locksmith businesses, and in most cases, end up owning their own business. As overheads are low and margins high, there is potential to profit from these business opportunities.

Salaries begin at $26,000 per year for a recently qualified apprentice and can go as high as $45,000 or higher for those working in their own business. There is provision for weekend and after hours work, especially doing installations in banks and shops. And people can get locked out of their house at the strangest of times!

Diversity

Locksmiths are skilled in many different areas. They must have good hand and eye coordination and be able and willing to lift heavy items, such as safes. Carpentry, welding, drilling and precision metal work are all techniques used in this occupation.

Another important area is the use of computer programs to generate codes for specialist keys. At TAFE, apprentices are taught how to use computer software to set specifications for keys, and how to service and install digital and electronic locking systems.

Locksmiths can either work in a shop, or be mobile working from vehicles to install and repair security hardware in the field, to open door locks or service safes and vault doors.

Safe and vault technicians have additional training in safe and vault servicing and trouble shooting. They open, rebuild, paint, move and install safes.

Locksmiths who service bank equipment work with mechanical and electronic time locks, time delay devices, night deposit units and combination, electronic and key locks for vaults and safes.

Some Locksmiths become expert by specialising in a specific area.

Honesty is key

In the wrong hands, the locksmith's specialised skills could be used for illegal gains. It is precisely for this reason why all locksmiths must obtain a Police Clearance before being accepted as an apprentice. Once qualified, all locksmiths must be licensed and are required to be fingerprinted.

Locksmiths work under strict legislation, such as the Security and Related Activities Act and the Residential Tenancy Act. A locksmith must be aware of his or her legal rights to change a lock in a complicated situation, such as evictions.

Strict confidentiality is necessary, as the locksmith keeps all details of a client's security systems and key specifications. It is also vital that a locksmith be diplomatic and understanding when dealing with their clients.

How do I become a locksmith?

This is a small occupation and even though there are shortages of skilled locksmiths in some areas, the opportunity to gain entry through an apprenticeship is still limited. Job growth is predicted to be slight and job turnover, which provides the majority of job opportunities, remains low.

To become a qualified locksmith, you must complete a locksmith apprenticeship. The off the job training associated with the apprenticeship is available through TAFE.

Apprentices and trainees are contracted to an employer for the time it takes to gain skills in a trade or vocational area - usually between 1 and 4 years. An apprentice or trainee:

	is paid to do a job and learn new skills at the same time
	has a variety of jobs and career paths, without having to go to university
	receives a qualification which is recognised wherever they go in Australia.

TAFE offers nationally-recognised training to apprentices and trainees in a way and at a time that suits their workplace. TAFE trainers:

	work with the apprentice/trainee and employer to design a training plan - including what training needs to occur, how that training will be provided, and when/where that training will take place - and support both to make it work
	provide a Training Record Book and any essential training materials at no cost to the apprentice/trainee
	visit workplaces to monitor training
	organise any additional learning support required (e.g. reading, maths skills)
	provide advice on fees and charges, and travel and accommodation subsidies.

An apprentice Locksmith is involved in:

	evaluating security requirements
	installing, adjusting, repairing and maintaining locks and related security equipment
	making keys and changing lock combinations

You'll generally work on residential, automotive, commercial and institutional locksets and door hardware.

How long does an apprenticeship last?

The nominal term is four (4) years.

What would I need?

	mechanical and mathematical ability
	patience and tact when dealing with the public
	good vision and hearing
	good hand and eye coordination
	good health and stamina
	agility required to climb ladders
	desire to keep up to date with new developments in security equipment
	honest and trustworthy character
	good verbal and written communication skills
	safety conscious
	good personal presentation
	reliable transportation or access to reliable public transportation

What working conditions could I expect?

	locksmiths usually work a 40-hour, five-day week, but may be "on call" nights and weekends to respond to emergencies
	self-employed locksmiths often work longer hours
	you'll work with minimal supervision and may spend some time travelling from job to job
	some working environments, especially mobile units, may be small and crowded, requiring you to work in awkward or confined spaces
	those working in mobile units may also be required to work in adverse weather conditions
	light lifting (up to 10 kilograms) is routinely required

General information on apprenticeships is available from the Australian Government's "Australian Apprenticeships" website: http://www.newapprenticeships.gov.au/

How do I get a Trade Certificate?

A trade certificate can be obtained by successfully completing on-the-job training at the employer's work place and off-the-job training with an accredited training provider. For details of units of competency/modules that need to be completed during the apprenticeship to obtain a trade certificate contact a training provider. The major training providers are listed below.

New South Wales

NSW TAFE provides an "Engineering - Mechanical Trade (Locksmithing)" course (course number 2878), for people who want to do an apprenticeship in Locksmithing. The course provides you with the opportunity to gain the competencies required by a tradesperson working as a locksmith. You will learn how to install and repair locks and related equipment.

This course is made up of different modules/units. The availability of elective modules varies from campus to campus. Please contact the campus for details to help you choose relevant modules.

NSW TAFE course details

Victoria

VIC TAFE provides a "Certificate III in Engineering Technology - Locksmithing" course (course code 20042VIC). This course has been developed to provide extensive relevant training for apprentices in the locksmithing industries. The course content has been designed and set by the locksmithing industry and is reviewed regularly to ensure the training provided matches the needs of the industry.

VIC TAFE course details

VIC TAFE also offers a "Diploma of Engineering Technology - Locksmithing" course. This course provides extensive training in security technology, and applicants must hold an existing trade qualification or be mature age (at least 25 years of age).

VIC TAFE diploma details

Queensland

QLD TAFE provides a "Certificate III in Engineering" course (course code CNMAN003) with a Locksmithing stream.

Queensland TAFE course details

Western Australia

WA Locksmithing apprenticeship details