How to check my Australian security clearance status
Maintaining an active Australian security clearance is one of the most valuable assets for professionals working across Defence and Government sectors.
Knowing your current status is critical. It demonstrates to employers that you are trusted, compliant, and ready to work in environments requiring access to classified information.
However, many individuals become unsure of their standing after a career break, contract gap, or change in sponsorship.
This guide explains how to check your Australia security clearance status, what it means, and what to do if your clearance is no longer active.
Why your clearance status matters
Demand for a trusted workforce in Australia continues to grow across major national initiatives including maritime capability, AUKUS-related programs, cyber security, and intelligence functions.
Most roles tied to a Designated Security Assessed Position (DSAP) require a valid Baseline, NV1, or NV2 clearance before access to classified systems or environments is granted.
If your clearance is active, you are considered placement-ready. If your clearance is inactive or lapsed, you may face delays or need to re-enter the vetting process.
Understanding your status early can prevent missed opportunities and streamline your next engagement.
How to check your status
myClearance Portal
The primary and most accurate way to check your Australian security clearance status is directly through the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).
- Access the myClearance Portal: All AGVSA clearances are managed through the official secure myClearance portal.
- Digital identity: To log in securely, you will need a myID (formerly myGovID) set up with at least a Standard identity strength.
- View your profile: Once successfully logged in, your dashboard will display your current clearance level (such as Baseline, NV1, or NV2) and its expiry or revalidation date.
What if you cannot log in?
In some cases, you may not be able to log in or view your details. This commonly occurs where:
- Your clearance has not been maintained for an extended period
- Required revalidation activities have not been completed
- You no longer have an active sponsor maintaining your clearance
If this happens, you can:
- Contact the AGSVA Customer Service Centre directly on 1800 640 450, or
- Speak with your sponsor (if known) to confirm your status
Understanding the role of the sponsor
One of the most common misconceptions in the industry is that a security clearance belongs solely to the individual. For Australia, security clearance sponsorship is a partnership between you, the vetting agency (AGSVA), and an authorised sponsor.
You cannot maintain an active status on your own. You must have an approved entity acting as your sponsor.
Your sponsor is legally responsible for your security clearance governance, ensuring you remain compliant under the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF). The ongoing responsibilities include:
- Facilitating revalidation activities as required by AGSVA
- Managing clearance lifecycle activities, including upgrades, downgrades, and cessations
- Ensuring compliance with the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) and DISP obligations
- Ensuring completion of mandatory security awareness and insider threat training
- Managing travel briefings, debriefings, and reporting requirements for overseas travel
- Providing security advice and guidance on clearance holder obligations
- Reporting Security Incidents on behalf of clearance holders
- Monitoring clearance holders for ongoing suitability and compliance risks
How WorkSec helps you reactivate your career
If you have discovered that your Australian security clearance has lapsed or is inactive, get in touch with us today. WorkSec specialises in helping contractors, SMEs, and recruiters navigate the complexities of clearance sponsorship.
WorkSec specialises in supporting individuals and organisations who do not have access to an internal sponsor.
As a DISP member, WorkSec provides Security Clearance Sponsorship aligned with AGSVA and PSPF requirements, including:
- Establishing a compliant sponsorship pathway
- Conducting mandatory Employment Suitability Checks (ESC)
- Initiating or supporting clearance activities with AGSVA
- Providing ongoing through-life clearance governance
This enables contractors, SMEs, and recruiters to maintain a ready-to-deploy cleared workforce, without being dependent on a single employer.
Access cleared opportunities
In addition to sponsorship, WorkSec provides access to its Cleared Talent Referrals network.
This connects security-cleared professionals with:
- Defence primes
- Defence Industry SMEs
- Recruitment partners filling DSAP roles
Helping ensure your clearance translates into real opportunity.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I reactivate or apply for a security clearance on my own?
A: No. You cannot maintain an active status or apply for a clearance independently. The process must be initiated by an authorised sponsor, such as Government Agency, a Defence Prime Contractor, or an accredited DISP provider like WorkSec.
Q: How long does it take to process a security clearance?
A: Processing times vary depending on the level of access required and the complexity of your background but on average range from one month to five months.
Q: Does a security clearance cost money?
A: Yes. Vetting is conducted by AGSVA, with costs typically incurred by the sponsoring entity. Where third-party sponsorship is used, additional fees may apply for screening and ongoing governance.
Secure your future with WorkSec
Do not let an unknown clearance status stand between you and your next high-paying role. Whether you need to reactivate a Baseline clearance or upgrade to an NV1 or NV2, having the right partner is essential.
Reach out to WorkSec today to formalise your sponsorship pathway and secure your place in Australia’s Trusted Workforce.
