Running a small business in Melbourne isn’t easy at all. Besides looking after customers, managing staff, and stock, you also need to keep your business safe. One of the most asked questions many small business owners ask is: “Should I hire security guards or just install CCTV cameras?”

Both options have their benefits, but the right choice depends on your needs, your risks, and your budget. Let’s break it down.

Understanding What Each Option Offers

Security Guards

Hiring a security guard means having a real security gurd on-site. A guard can watch over your property, deal with troublemakers straight away, and even help staff and customers feel safe. Guards act as a strong visual deterrent too – when someone sees a security officer around, they’re far less likely to cause trouble.

Security guards can also handle things that cameras can’t, like helping someone who’s hurt, managing a difficult customer, or preventing theft before it happens.

CCTV Cameras

CCTV cameras are a good way to record what’s happening around your business. They can act as a deterrent too – people behave better when they know they’re being watched. Plus, if something does go wrong, you’ll have footage for insurance claims or police reports.

Modern systems even let you monitor your cameras remotely from your phone. But remember: a camera can only record a crime – it can’t stop one in the moment.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Security Guards Pros: Immediate action, strong deterrent, human judgment

Security Gurds Cons: Ongoing wage costs

CCTV Cameras Pros:  Affordable long-term, records evidence, remote access

CCTV Cameras Cons: Can’t prevent crime in real-time, needs maintenance

Things to Consider Before Deciding

Your Business Type

For example, if you run a café, a small office, or a boutique store, cameras might be enough. But if you own a bar, a jewellery store, or a high-traffic retail space, having a security guard on-site could make a big difference.

Risk Level

Think about where your business is located. If you’re in a busy part of Melbourne like the CBD or a high-risk area with late-night trading, you might need stronger security.

Your Budget

Hiring a guard costs more upfront. You’ll be paying for their time, training, and expertise. CCTV, on the other hand, is a one-time investment (plus occasional maintenance).

If your budget is tight, you might start with cameras and hire guards only during high-risk times like weekends or special events.

Business Hours

If your business operates outside regular 9-to-5 hours – say, a gym open 24/7 – CCTV can help monitor things after hours, but a guard might be needed during busy peak times.

Real Case Study: How Group One Security Helped a Melbourne Retail Store

One of Group One Security’s recent success stories involved a retail store located in Melbourne’s inner north. The store had suffered multiple break-ins and stock thefts, despite having CCTV cameras installed.

The owner contacted Group One Security for help. After assessing the risks, Group One suggested a combination approach: security guards during operating hours and upgraded CCTV for after-hours monitoring.

Within just a few weeks, incidents dropped dramatically. Shoplifting cases fell by over 80%, and the staff reported feeling much safer at work. Customers also noticed the professional presence and felt more comfortable shopping there, which even boosted sales.

This is a real example of how combining security services can bring better results than relying on just one method.

Can You Combine Both?

Absolutely. In fact, many businesses across Melbourne now use both security guards and CCTV together. Cameras provide 24/7 monitoring, while guards add that extra layer of protection during high-risk periods.

It’s not about choosing one or the other – it’s about finding the right balance that suits your business needs.

Why Choose Group One Security?

If you’re thinking about hiring security guards , Group One Security, a leading security company in Melbourne, is here to help. Based right here in Melbourne, Our team has years of experience keeping businesses like yours safe.

Our Security Services :

  • Professional, licensed security guards

  • Mobile patrols for after-hours checks

  • Alarm response services

  • Help choosing and setting up CCTV systems

  • Customised solutions that actually work (no cookie-cutter packages)

Whether you run a shop, office, warehouse, or construction site, Group One Security has the local know-how to protect what matters most to you.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, whether you need security guards, CCTV, or both comes down to your unique situation. Think about your business type, your risks, and your budget. If you’re unsure, it’s worth having a chat with a security professional.

If you want real peace of mind for your Melbourne business, reach out to Group One Security today. Our friendly team will give you honest advice and help you find the right solution to keep your business safe and thriving.