Industry Updates: Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Security Legislation

February 3, 2025

As the security landscape continues to evolve, our customers across various sectors are facing increasing challenges in ensuring safety and managing risks effectively. We are committed to adapting to these challenges to support both the safety of our staff and the security needs of our customers. Security officers often encounter aggression in their roles, and it is essential that they have the necessary support and protection to perform their duties safely and effectively.

One of the key challenges in the industry is the ambiguity surrounding security officers’ legal authority, particularly when it comes to handling incidents that may require intervention. While the Crimes Act 1961 provides some guidance on situations where force may be used, the definition of “reasonable” force remains subjective, creating uncertainty for security professionals in the field.

At Red Badge Security, we recognise that different customers have different expectations regarding security practices. Some prefer a more passive “observe and report” approach due to concerns over liability and legal repercussions, while others see value in a more proactive approach to deterrence and intervention. We believe that offering a choice in security service levels allows us to meet the diverse needs of our customers while ensuring the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

To enhance the effectiveness of our security services, we advocate for greater clarity and empowerment within the industry. This includes ensuring that security officers, when appropriately trained and within the bounds of the law, have the ability to take reasonable actions such as recovering stolen property, requesting identification, and, when necessary, detaining individuals for police intervention. However, we strongly believe that any increased authority must be accompanied by rigorous training, clear guidelines, and robust oversight to ensure responsible and professional conduct at all times.

As part of our commitment to improving safety standards, we are working closely with the New Zealand Security Association (NZSA) and engaging with government representatives from the Ministry of Justice and Police to advocate for reforms. Our efforts include seeking clearer legislation on the roles and responsibilities of security officers, enhanced protections for both security personnel and their employers, and the review of outdated laws such as the Trespass Act. These improvements will not only enhance officer safety but also provide a stronger, more tailored security service for our customers.

By fostering an environment where both security officers and customers have clear options and protections, we aim to build a safer, more effective security framework that meets the evolving needs of the industry while upholding the highest standards of service and accountability.