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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare for investigative activities
   • Assignment instructions and relevant information is obtained to review client and organisational requirements
   • Resource and equipment requirements are estimated based on assignment instructions and confirmed with appropriate person(s) in accordance with organisational procedures
   • Requirements for specialist equipment and technical specialists are identified and confirmed with appropriate person(s)
   • Information sources and systems are reliable and used in accordance with legislative and organisational guidelines
   • Personal conduct, manner and presentation is maintained in accordance with code of conduct and organisational requirements
   • A plan detailing key activities and their sequence is developed taking into consideration all known factors, client instructions and legal requirements
2. Gather information
   • Methods of collecting information are reliable and make efficient use of resources in accordance with organisational requirements
   • Available facts and evidence is obtained from information sources, organised and secured in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements
   • Interviews / meetings are planned, managed and conducted to gather maximum amount of information relevant to the assignment
   • Interpersonal techniques are appropriate to assignment requirements and reflect sensitivity to individual social and cultural differences
   • Comprehensive statements are taken in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures and contain details relevant to the assignment
   • Business equipment is used in accordance with manufacturer's specifications to access, record and organise information
   • Physical evidence is collected, where possible to support statements of fact
3. Report information
   • Information is obtained within the specified time, budget and quality constraints in accordance with assignment and organisational requirements
   • Information is evaluated in terms of validity, reliability and relevance and reviewed with appropriate person(s) in accordance with organisational procedures
   • Recommendations and issues are presented in the required format, style and structure that is suitable for review and interpretation in accordance with organisational requirements
   • Client satisfaction with service delivery is reviewed using verifiable data and appropriate feedback techniques in accordance with organisational policy and procedures
   • Relevant workplace documentation is completed and processed in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures
   • Information is safely and securely maintained and stored in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements

Required Skills

Not applicable

Evidence Required

The Evidence Guide identifies the requirements to be demonstrated to confirm competence for this unit Assessment must confirm sufficient ability to use appropriate skills and knowledge to gather information by factual investigation Assessment of performance should be over a period of time covering all categories within the Range of Variables statements that are applicable in the learning environment

What critical aspects are required for evidence of competency

Accurately plan for gathering relevant information and effectively use correct equipment and resources to support specific information gathering activity

Reliable sources and methods are used to gather information that is accurate and relevant to the assignment

Conduct interviewsmeetings using appropriate interpersonal techniques and take accurate and complete contemporaneous notes and statements

Gathered information is evaluated and recommendations and issues are presented in a format suitable for review and interpretation within designated timeframes

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below

organisational requirements and legal and ethical obligations with regard to the gathering and distribution of information

investigative techniques

sources of information and information gathering techniques

continuity of evidence

information evaluation processes for establishing validity and reliability of gathered information

operational principles of a range of security and investigative equipment

effective interpersonal techniques

information management systems and methods

report writing and data presentation techniques

procedures for the security and storage of gathered information

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria

To achieve the performance criteria some specific skills are required These include the ability to

relate to people from different social and cultural backgrounds and varying physical and mental abilities

prioritise work tasks and complete activities within designated timeframes

identify and access relevant information from reliable sources

source additional information

collect and evaluate diverse pieces of information

verify information for accuracy and relevance

use information technology appropriate to the task

prepare and present reports in required formats

disseminate information with due regard to confidentiality issues

solve problems of contradictory ambiguous or inconsistent information

use information storage and retrieval systems

apply safe workplace practices

What resources may be required for assessment

Access to a suitable venue and equipment

Access to plain English version of relevant statutes and procedures

Assignment instructions work plans and schedules policy documents and duty statements

Assessment instruments including personal planner and assessment record book

Access to a registered provider of assessment services

What is required to achieve consistency of performance

For valid and reliable assessment of this unit the competency should be demonstrated over a period of time and observed by the assessor The competency is to be demonstrated in a range of situations which may include involvement in related activities normally experienced in the workplace

Evidence of underpinning knowledge understanding of processes and principles can be gained through thorough questioning and by observation of previous work

Assessment against this unit may involve the following

Continuous assessment in a setting that simulates the conditions of performance described in the elements performance criteria and range of variables statement that make up the unit

Continuous assessment in the workplace taking into account the range of variables affecting performance

Selfassessment on the same terms as those described above

Simulated assessment or critical incident assessment provided that the critical incident involves assessment against performance criteria and an evaluation of underpinning knowledge and skill required to achieve the required performance outcomes

Key competency levels

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life which are required in all jobs They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions Some of these are covered by the key competencies although others may be added

Information below highlights how these processes are applied in this competency standard

perform the process

perform and administer the process

perform administer and design the process

How can communication of ideas and information be applied

Effective interpersonal techniques may be used in interviewsmeetings to elicit accurate information

How can information be collected analysed and organised

Available facts and evidence may be obtained from verifiable sources using reliable methods of collecting information and collated for review and evaluation

How are activities planned and organised

A plan may be developed detailing key activities and their sequence to achieve assignment requirements in a timely manner

How can team work be applied

Draft documentation may be disseminated to relevant personnel for review and any constructive feedback or comments integrated into final documentation

How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques be applied

Mathematical techniques may be used to measure prioritise and schedule tasks

How can problem solving skills be applied

Changing circumstances and other factors affecting the achievement of assignment instructions within designated timeframes may be promptly identified and negotiated with relevant personnel

How can the use of technology be applied

Technology may be used to research record organise and communicate information

The Evidence Guide identifies the requirements to be demonstrated to confirm competence for this unit Assessment must confirm sufficient ability to use appropriate skills and knowledge to gather information by factual investigation Assessment of performance should be over a period of time covering all categories within the Range of Variables statements that are applicable in the learning environment

What critical aspects are required for evidence of competency

Accurately plan for gathering relevant information and effectively use correct equipment and resources to support specific information gathering activity

Reliable sources and methods are used to gather information that is accurate and relevant to the assignment

Conduct interviewsmeetings using appropriate interpersonal techniques and take accurate and complete contemporaneous notes and statements

Gathered information is evaluated and recommendations and issues are presented in a format suitable for review and interpretation within designated timeframes

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below

organisational requirements and legal and ethical obligations with regard to the gathering and distribution of information

investigative techniques

sources of information and information gathering techniques

continuity of evidence

information evaluation processes for establishing validity and reliability of gathered information

operational principles of a range of security and investigative equipment

effective interpersonal techniques

information management systems and methods

report writing and data presentation techniques

procedures for the security and storage of gathered information

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria

To achieve the performance criteria some specific skills are required These include the ability to

relate to people from different social and cultural backgrounds and varying physical and mental abilities

prioritise work tasks and complete activities within designated timeframes

identify and access relevant information from reliable sources

source additional information

collect and evaluate diverse pieces of information

verify information for accuracy and relevance

use information technology appropriate to the task

prepare and present reports in required formats

disseminate information with due regard to confidentiality issues

solve problems of contradictory ambiguous or inconsistent information

use information storage and retrieval systems

apply safe workplace practices

What resources may be required for assessment

Access to a suitable venue and equipment

Access to plain English version of relevant statutes and procedures

Assignment instructions work plans and schedules policy documents and duty statements

Assessment instruments including personal planner and assessment record book

Access to a registered provider of assessment services

What is required to achieve consistency of performance

For valid and reliable assessment of this unit the competency should be demonstrated over a period of time and observed by the assessor The competency is to be demonstrated in a range of situations which may include involvement in related activities normally experienced in the workplace

Evidence of underpinning knowledge understanding of processes and principles can be gained through thorough questioning and by observation of previous work

Assessment against this unit may involve the following

Continuous assessment in a setting that simulates the conditions of performance described in the elements performance criteria and range of variables statement that make up the unit

Continuous assessment in the workplace taking into account the range of variables affecting performance

Selfassessment on the same terms as those described above

Simulated assessment or critical incident assessment provided that the critical incident involves assessment against performance criteria and an evaluation of underpinning knowledge and skill required to achieve the required performance outcomes

Key competency levels

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life which are required in all jobs They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions Some of these are covered by the key competencies although others may be added

Information below highlights how these processes are applied in this competency standard

perform the process

perform and administer the process

perform administer and design the process

How can communication of ideas and information be applied

Effective interpersonal techniques may be used in interviewsmeetings to elicit accurate information

How can information be collected analysed and organised

Available facts and evidence may be obtained from verifiable sources using reliable methods of collecting information and collated for review and evaluation

How are activities planned and organised

A plan may be developed detailing key activities and their sequence to achieve assignment requirements in a timely manner

How can team work be applied

Draft documentation may be disseminated to relevant personnel for review and any constructive feedback or comments integrated into final documentation

How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques be applied

Mathematical techniques may be used to measure prioritise and schedule tasks

How can problem solving skills be applied

Changing circumstances and other factors affecting the achievement of assignment instructions within designated timeframes may be promptly identified and negotiated with relevant personnel

How can the use of technology be applied

Technology may be used to research record organise and communicate information

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Range Statement

The Range of Variables provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. It allows for different work practices and work and knowledge requirements as well as for differences between organisations and workplaces. The following variables may be present for this particular unit:

Assignment instructions may include:

instructions from supervisor/management

assignment objectives and timeframes

work tasks and procedures

resource and equipment requirements

reporting and documentation requirements.

Relevant information may include:

summary of case history

client instructions

terms of reference

cost schedule

reporting details

acceptable modes of enquiry

time limit for inquiry

operator manuals

manufacturer's specifications.

Organisational requirements may relate to:

legal and organisational policy and procedures including personnel practices and guidelines

organisational goals, objectives, plans, systems and processes

employer and employee rights and responsibilities

business and performance plans

policies and procedures relating to own role, responsibility and delegation

quality and continuous improvement processes and standards

client service standards

defined resource parameters

Occupational Health and Safety policies, procedures and programs

emergency and evacuation procedures

duty of care, code of conduct, code of ethics

access and equity policy, principles and practice

records and information systems and processes

communication channels and reporting procedures.

Resources and equipment may include:

35mm and video cameras

compass

tape measures

scales

writing instruments

voice recorder, transcript recorder

scanners (audio, document, computer)

lap-top computer

vehicle, air travel

mobile phones, pagers

personnel.

Appropriate persons may include:

security personnel

supervisors, management

clients

manufacturer's

security consultants

other professional or technical staff.

Specialist equipment may include:

audio/video

electronic counter surveillance equipment

infra-red

night vision goggles.

Technical specialists may include:

photographers

accountants

solicitors, lawyers

forensic experts

engineers

specialist investigators

information technology experts

undercover operatives.

Information sources may include:

colleagues, supervisor, management

records, reports, case notes

interviews, meetings

photographs

newspapers and other print media

specialists

internet and other electronic sources

library

industry networks

government departments/agencies

professional bodies

workshops, conferences, seminars.

Information systems may depend on:

importance of information

sensitivity of information

reliability of information

source or origin of information

where information is to be disseminated.

Client instructions may relate to:

confidentiality of information

handling and transmission requirements.

Business equipment may include:

computers and computer applications

modems

personal schedulers

e-mail

internet/extranet/intranet

facsimile machines

printers

photocopiers

scanners.

Available facts may include:

accident reports

personal records

personnel records

medical reports

machinery reports

employer accident records

claims

travel documents

policies.

Applicable legislation, codes and national standards may include:

relevant Commonwealth/State/Territory legislation which affect organisational operation

Australian Standards, quality assurance and certification requirements

relevant industry Codes of Practice

privacy requirements

freedom of information

trade practices

award and enterprise agreements

industrial relations, relevant industrial instruments

Occupational Health and Safety

environment and waste management

equal employment opportunity

anti-discrimination and diversity.

Evidence may be:

direct

circumstantial

physical

opinion

documentary

hearsay.

Interpersonal techniques may include:

verbal or non-verbal language

two-way interaction

constructive feedback

active listening

questioning to clarify and confirm understanding

interpreting non-verbal and verbal messages

observation techniques

use of positive, confident and co-operative language

control of tone of voice and body language

use of language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

use of clear presentations of options and consequences

demonstrating flexibility and willingness to compromise.

Social and cultural differences may be expressed in:

language (verbal, non-verbal, English)

traditional practices and observations

beliefs, values, practices

food, diet

dress

religious and spiritual observances

social conventions

cultural stereotypes

conventions of gender/sexuality.

Format requirements may relate to:

style

sequence of coverage

length

use of appendices

enclosures

use of abbreviations

common industry terminology.

Documentation may include:

written reports

oral briefings

activity reports

running sheets

task allocation sheets

radio/telephone records.

The Range of Variables provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. It allows for different work practices and work and knowledge requirements as well as for differences between organisations and workplaces. The following variables may be present for this particular unit:

Assignment instructions may include:

instructions from supervisor/management

assignment objectives and timeframes

work tasks and procedures

resource and equipment requirements

reporting and documentation requirements.

Relevant information may include:

summary of case history

client instructions

terms of reference

cost schedule

reporting details

acceptable modes of enquiry

time limit for inquiry

operator manuals

manufacturer's specifications.

Organisational requirements may relate to:

legal and organisational policy and procedures including personnel practices and guidelines

organisational goals, objectives, plans, systems and processes

employer and employee rights and responsibilities

business and performance plans

policies and procedures relating to own role, responsibility and delegation

quality and continuous improvement processes and standards

client service standards

defined resource parameters

Occupational Health and Safety policies, procedures and programs

emergency and evacuation procedures

duty of care, code of conduct, code of ethics

access and equity policy, principles and practice

records and information systems and processes

communication channels and reporting procedures.

Resources and equipment may include:

35mm and video cameras

compass

tape measures

scales

writing instruments

voice recorder, transcript recorder

scanners (audio, document, computer)

lap-top computer

vehicle, air travel

mobile phones, pagers

personnel.

Appropriate persons may include:

security personnel

supervisors, management

clients

manufacturer's

security consultants

other professional or technical staff.

Specialist equipment may include:

audio/video

electronic counter surveillance equipment

infra-red

night vision goggles.

Technical specialists may include:

photographers

accountants

solicitors, lawyers

forensic experts

engineers

specialist investigators

information technology experts

undercover operatives.

Information sources may include:

colleagues, supervisor, management

records, reports, case notes

interviews, meetings

photographs

newspapers and other print media

specialists

internet and other electronic sources

library

industry networks

government departments/agencies

professional bodies

workshops, conferences, seminars.

Information systems may depend on:

importance of information

sensitivity of information

reliability of information

source or origin of information

where information is to be disseminated.

Client instructions may relate to:

confidentiality of information

handling and transmission requirements.

Business equipment may include:

computers and computer applications

modems

personal schedulers

e-mail

internet/extranet/intranet

facsimile machines

printers

photocopiers

scanners.

Available facts may include:

accident reports

personal records

personnel records

medical reports

machinery reports

employer accident records

claims

travel documents

policies.

Applicable legislation, codes and national standards may include:

relevant Commonwealth/State/Territory legislation which affect organisational operation

Australian Standards, quality assurance and certification requirements

relevant industry Codes of Practice

privacy requirements

freedom of information

trade practices

award and enterprise agreements

industrial relations, relevant industrial instruments

Occupational Health and Safety

environment and waste management

equal employment opportunity

anti-discrimination and diversity.

Evidence may be:

direct

circumstantial

physical

opinion

documentary

hearsay.

Interpersonal techniques may include:

verbal or non-verbal language

two-way interaction

constructive feedback

active listening

questioning to clarify and confirm understanding

interpreting non-verbal and verbal messages

observation techniques

use of positive, confident and co-operative language

control of tone of voice and body language

use of language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

use of clear presentations of options and consequences

demonstrating flexibility and willingness to compromise.

Social and cultural differences may be expressed in:

language (verbal, non-verbal, English)

traditional practices and observations

beliefs, values, practices

food, diet

dress

religious and spiritual observances

social conventions

cultural stereotypes

conventions of gender/sexuality.

Format requirements may relate to:

style

sequence of coverage

length

use of appendices

enclosures

use of abbreviations

common industry terminology.

Documentation may include:

written reports

oral briefings

activity reports

running sheets

task allocation sheets

radio/telephone records.

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