Cost to Hire Security Guards in Melbourne (2026 Pricing Guide & Hourly Rates) Discussed by Factors Involved

Do you own a precious house with all sorts of valuables , Business or are you arranging an outdoor wedding reception or  involving guests from all over the city? Among all the other requirements, Hiring Security and Cost to hire security guards is an important one. Contact us for a free consultation and discover how our professional security services can protect your business and property.

These uniformed individuals with stern faces, quick reflexes and hazard management training do a lot more than just patrolling and monitoring. From preventing theft at your house to analyzing fishy activities at an assembly area to protecting the boundaries of a high-profile government building, security guards provide safety and support in different forms. But what is the cost of hiring a security guard in Melbourne? Let’s shed some light on this topic.

Average Cost to Hire Security Guards In Melbourne

The average cost to hire security guards in Melbourne lies anywhere between $38 – $110/hour + GST. Of course, there are many factors that influence this rate, e.g. the nature of the event, the type of security you require, the degree of threat involved, the location of your property, whether it is the peak or off-peak season and so many more.

Security Guard Rates Melbourne 2026

To give you a better understanding of current market rates, below is a general guide to security guard costs in Melbourne for 2026.

Please note that rates may vary depending on the level of risk, shift duration, location, and specific security requirements.

Factors That Affect The Cost to Hire Security Guard In Melbourne

Let’s discuss them one by one.

1. Type of security

The nature of the security will largely define the average cost of a security guard in Melbourne. Because, of course, patrolling around a small mall is quite different from being dedicated to the outdoor security of a celebrity.

For general patrolling, you can expect a rate of $40-$50/hour + GST. For private security services, it would be $80-$100 + GST .

General patrolling	$40-$50 + GST
Private security	$80-$100 + GST

In fact, the salary range of celebrity bodyguards is $65000-$145,000 which translates to almost $100/hour +GST. If the celebrity is a government official facing life threats, that is bound to increase even more.

Why? Because only specialized security guards with exceptional talent and qualities will be hired for such a sensitive and high-profile role.

But that’s not it. There are other security services as well such as:

• Event security like an outdoor birthday party, award-winning celebration or a baby shower. Here the job is to handle the lurkers, observe any suspicious eyes, handle the crowd, manage the parking and guide the guests.
• Remote security who are responsible for handling large areas like golf courses, swimming pools, playgrounds, mining areas, etc. These security guards will patrol your area and look after both the ill-intention breaches and the suspicious eyes of the people who mistakenly stumble on the designated area.
• Medical facilities security where the job is to protect the expensive medical equipment and save the medical staff and general public from any potential threats e.g. domestic abuse patients or affectees of a criminal case.
• Industrial/manufacturing area security that involves patrolling and CCTV monitoring.
• Corporate Office Security who manage the main reception, verify visitor credentials, control after-hours access to the CBD high-rises, and perform silent patrols of executive floors and server rooms.
• Retail Security focused on high-theft items in hardware or electronics stores. Here Security guard role is to conduct floor walks, monitor customer activity through one-way mirrors, and coordinate with staff to discreetly prevent inventory loss.
• Construction Site Security who protect Melbourne development sites from theft of copper and tools. Here guards duties include constant overnight patrols, monitoring perimeter fences for breaches, and securing machinery and fuel stores from vandals. Construction sites often contain valuable equipment, machinery, and materials that can attract trespassers and thieves. Guidance provided by Safe Work Australia emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe and secure workplace, making professional construction site security an important part of risk management for many Melbourne projects.
• Campus Security for universities and TAFEs across Melbourne. These guards provide a safe presence for students, secure lecture halls and libraries after hours, and patrol the extensive grounds and bicycle sheds to prevent theft and vandalism.

2. Type of guard

The second factor affecting the security guard hourly rate in Melbourne is the nature of the guard you’re hiring. This generally splits into armed and unarmed security guards.

A basic unarmed guard doesn’t carry any equipment other than a transmitter. They look for any bad behavior and will contact the higher authority in case of vandalism. These include bouncers and gate security. Their rate is $40-$80+GST

A basic armed guard has start-level training in carrying a weapon. They are hired by businesses having expensive assets like jewelry or premium furniture store. Their rate is $40-$80+GST

An armed guard with advanced training does not only carry a weapon but has the capabilities of detaining suspects, controlling the crowd and suppressing a potential threat. If the incident occurs, they know how to trace and catch the culprit. They will have the license for handcuffs. Their rate is $60-$80+GST

Then there are specially trained armed guards that are often hired to escort VIP guests and guard government buildings. Their rate is $80-$120+GST.

In Victoria, security guards must hold a valid security license and meet strict industry requirements. The Victoria Police Licensing & Regulation Division oversees licensing and compliance for security professionals, helping ensure that licensed guards meet the standards required to protect people, property, and assets.

3. Location

The third factor affecting the security guard hourly rate is the location. We asked Indeed related to it. It said that Sydney has a rate of  $52+GST/hour, Brisbane $38+GST/hour, Melbourne $40+GST/hour and Perth $38+GST/hour. Starting From Monday To Friday. Extra rates on weekends and public holidays .

Sydney	$52+GST/hour
Brisbane	$38+GST/hour
Melbourne	$40+GST/hour
Perth	$38+GST/hour

4. Type of company

Here comes the big ask. There are some security companies that offer multiple services like plumbing and cleaning along with security. They will demand a lower rate. That’s because their security guards will not be specialized in deterring unfortunate incidents. Security is only one of the many services that they provide, hence they’re never in the position (morally or legally) to demand uplifted security guard charges.

Specialized security companies Melbourne, on the other hand, like Group One Security charge higher because they not only provide dedicated security services in different departments like loss prevention, event security , construction site security and alarm response security, but also the security guards are highly qualified to de-escalate hazardous situations.

Ensure your property, business, or event is fully protected with our expert security services. Contact Group One Security Services Pty Ltd for a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your specific needs. Our team is ready to provide reliable security solutions that give you peace of mind. Call us at phone 1800476876 / 0404888001 / 1800 GROUP ONE or Get a free Quote now to get started!

5. Number of Security Guards Required

The number of guards required directly affects the overall security cost.

For example:

A professional security assessment can determine the right staffing levels while keeping costs under control.

Why Are Security Guard Costs Increasing In Melbourne In 2026?

Security service rates across Melbourne have gradually increased over recent years due to several industry and economic factors.

Rising Labour Costs

Security companies must comply with industry awards and employment regulations, resulting in increased wage costs for licensed security personnel.

Licensing and Compliance Requirements

Professional security guards must hold valid Victorian security licences and undergo ongoing training to maintain industry standards. These compliance requirements contribute to overall operating costs.

Increased Demand for Security Services

Melbourne continues to experience growth in construction projects, retail developments, public events, and commercial facilities. As demand for security personnel increases, rates can also rise during peak periods.

Insurance and Operational Costs

Security companies carry significant insurance coverage, supervision costs, training expenses, and compliance obligations, all of which contribute to service pricing.

Growing Focus on Risk Management

Businesses today are investing more heavily in proactive security measures to reduce theft, vandalism, workplace incidents, and liability risks. This increased demand for professional security services influences market rates across Melbourne.

Labour costs are one of the biggest factors influencing security guard rates in Melbourne. Security companies must comply with minimum pay rates, penalty rates, and employment conditions established by the Fair Work Commission. Changes to wages and industry awards can directly impact the cost of hiring professional security personnel.

Does Hiring Security Reduce Business Losses?

Many Melbourne businesses view security as an expense, but professional security often saves money by preventing:

• Theft
• Property damage
• Trespassing
• Workplace incidents
• Insurance claims
• Operational disruptions

The cost of one serious security incident can often exceed the cost of ongoing security protection.

Many businesses choose to invest in security services as a proactive measure against theft, vandalism, and other criminal activity. Data published by the Crime Statistics Agency Victoria helps organisations understand local crime trends and highlights the importance of having effective security measures in place to reduce risk.

How To Choose The Right Security Company In Melbourne

Before comparing prices, consider:

• Victorian security licensing
• Industry experience
• Insurance coverage
• 24/7 support capability
• Incident reporting systems
• Mobile patrol availability
• Client reviews and testimonials

Choosing a provider based solely on price may result in lower service quality and increased risk.

How To Save Money on Security Guard Services In Melbourne

Now that you know about the rates of security guards in Melbourne, let’s discuss some of the tips that can enable you to put brakes on this cost.

1. Evaluate your security needs properly. If you require only a part-time event security officer, there’s no need to hire a full-time security guard.
2. Get bids from at least three security companies. Just like you negotiate the prices of furniture by visiting different stores, try to bring down the rates by taking bids from different companies. This way, you’d come across the general rates which will help you in finalizing the average of them so you can quote that price in front of the preferred security company. Hopefully, they’ll lower the hourly rates of their guards for you.
3. Always think about your budget before hiring a security guard in Melbourne. Suppose it’s $5000/month. Rather than opting for an hourly rate, ask for a monthly rate from the company and finalize on that. If you don’t have the budget in mind, you’ll get confused by the jargon-y talk of the respondents and end up hiring expensive security guards.

Security Guard Costs Across Melbourne Suburbs

Security guard rates can vary depending on where your property, business, or event is located.

Areas commonly serviced across Melbourne include:

• Melbourne CBD
• Southbank
• Docklands
• Dandenong
• Sunshine
• Werribee
• Clayton
• Keysborough
• Campbellfield
• Thomastown

Factors affecting suburb-based pricing may include:

• Travel distance
• Site accessibility
• Overnight requirements
• Local crime rates
• Number of guards required
• Risk level of the location

For larger projects or long-term contracts, security companies may offer customised pricing based on site requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Security Guard Costs In Melbourne

How much does a security guard cost per hour in Melbourne?

The average cost to hire a security guard in Melbourne ranges from $38 to $110+ GST per hour depending on the type of security service, risk level, location, and guard qualifications.

What is the minimum hire period for security guards?

Most security companies require a minimum booking period, commonly ranging from four to eight hours depending on the assignment.

How much does event security cost in Melbourne?

Event security generally costs between $40 and $75+ GST per hour per guard, depending on crowd size, venue requirements, and risk assessment findings.

Is hiring security worth it for small businesses?

Yes. Professional security can help reduce theft, vandalism, workplace incidents, and financial losses while improving staff and customer safety.

How many security guards do I need for an event?

The number of guards required depends on expected attendance, venue size, alcohol service, entry points, and overall risk level. A professional security assessment can determine the appropriate staffing level.

Why Choose Group One Security Services?

Group One Security Services Pty Ltd provides licensed and professional security guards throughout Melbourne for construction sites, retail stores, corporate offices, events, warehouses, residential properties and many other sectors.

Our experienced team conducts site-specific risk assessments to recommend the most effective and cost-efficient security solution for each client. Whether you require short-term event security or long-term protection for your business, we can tailor a security plan that meets your requirements and budget.

Bottom line

Professional security services are not only about preventing crime , they also help businesses meet workplace safety obligations, protect assets, manage liability risks, and provide peace of mind. By working with licensed and experienced security professionals, Melbourne businesses can create safer environments for employees, customers, contractors, and visitors.

That’s it. Briefly, we have tried to cover the topic of the cost of hiring a security guard in Melbourne. Make sure you carry out an extensive check before choosing the right security service. May you choose the most fitting security guard.