Application Process

ClientView aims to process complete, correct MSIC applications promptly, but overall timeframes depend on verification and AusCheck background checks.

Factors that influence timing:

• How quickly your identity and operational need documents can be verified.
• Whether the application information is complete or needs clarification.
• The time taken by AusCheck to complete background checking.
• Printing and delivery time once the application is approved.

Submitting accurate documents early and responding quickly to any queries will help your card be approved as fast as possible.

After you submit your MSIC application, ClientView verifies your details, initiates the required checks and manages card production and dispatch.

What happens behind the scenes:

• Your identity documents and operational need evidence are reviewed by trained staff.
• ClientView submits required information to AusCheck for background assessment.
• Results are reviewed against MSIC eligibility rules before approval.
• Approved applications move to card production and delivery to you or your employer.

Throughout this process your application status is updated in the portal so you and your employer can track progress.

Only a very small number of authorised ClientView staff with specific MSIC duties can access identity documents and background check information.

How access is controlled:

• Role based access ensures staff only see the records needed for their role.
• Administrative access is restricted to experienced, vetted personnel.
• Access to identity documents is logged and monitored for audit and security purposes.
• Data is stored in secure systems hosted on Microsoft Azure infrastructure.

This tight control helps protect your personal information throughout the life of your MSIC.

After you submit your MSIC application, ClientView verifies your details, initiates the required checks and manages card production and dispatch.

What happens behind the scenes

• Your identity documents and operational need evidence are reviewed by trained staff.
• ClientView submits required information to AusCheck for background assessment.
• Results are reviewed against MSIC eligibility rules before approval.
• Approved applications move to card production and delivery to you or your employer.

Throughout this process your application status is updated in the portal so you and your employer can track progress.

ClientView supports applicants who find online forms difficult by offering clear guidance, phone assistance and practical alternatives for providing documents.

Support options

• Step by step instructions and FAQs in plain language.
• Telephone or email support to talk through each stage of the process.
• Practical help with scanning or photographing documents where needed.
• Working with employers or administrators to provide additional assistance on site.

The aim is to ensure that genuine applicants are not held back simply because they are less confident with technology.

Workflow Step 6 of the Plan: on receipt of the AusCheck 'eligible' notice, ClientView updates its secure database, prints the card in house and forwards it by Registered Post the same day. Most cards therefore leave our office within one working day.

Section 5.2 of the Plan states that MSICs are transported only in Registered Envelopes requiring the addressee's signature

Details

• If delivery fails, the envelope is automatically returned to ClientView, which then contacts you to arrange re-delivery or in-person collection.

AusCheck triggers additional state-police or security-agency inquiries for 2'3 % of applicants

Details

• A single mismatched address, incomplete 10-year history or an unverified visa pauses the clock until satisfied
• ClientView's system shows 'Pending with Agency' in these cases; once cleared the usual steps resume.

Because AusCheck deals only with the issuing body, applicants should route queries through ClientView

Details

• Provide your Application ID so they can lodge a formal 'application status' request with AusCheck on your behalf (Plan '3.2 & '3.5 workflow).

If the timeline shows Background check lodged for >30 days, phone 1300 ___ or email msic@clientview.com.au with your Application ID

Details

• ClientView can see AusCheck queue status and escalate if it breaches the service benchmark (most clear <14 days unless extra enquiries are required).

Step 5 of the workflow: 'AusCheck makes an assessment to APPROVE or NOT APPROVE and notifies ClientView and the applicant.' The same event stamps your online timeline and unlocks card-printing.

Under the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Regulations 2003, you must hold and properly display a valid MSIC to work unescorted in a maritime security zone (r. 6.07J)

Details

• If your MSIC application is still pending, you cannot access or work in these areas on your own
• However, you may enter as a visitor if you are continuously escorted by a person who is properly displaying a valid MSIC or temporary MSIC (see r. 6.07J(2)(a))
• Some employers may also have additional workplace policies restricting access until your card is issued
• You must not undertake duties requiring unescorted access to maritime security zones until you receive your MSIC.

After submission the record stays editable for documents until printing

Details

• Click 'Add Supporting Docs' next to your Application ID; the file is encrypted and queued for an issuing-officer validation check (Section 3.3.3 'ClientView validation process')
• If you prefer in person, take originals to Australia Post; the clerk scans and uploads directly into your file.

When you registered online the system created a unique Application ID and login

Details

• Each major milestone (ID verified, background-check lodged, AusCheck decision, card printed, card posted) is visible on your dashboard and also triggers an automatic email/SMS.

Under the ClientView MSIC workflow, application data sit inside the secure MSIC Information System that is accessible only to authorised issuing officers

Details

• Employers provide the 'operational-need' letter but have no portal access, and privacy rules prevent ClientView disclosing status without your consent.

ClientView aims to process complete, correct MSIC applications promptly, but overall timeframes depend on verification and AusCheck background checks.

Factors that influence timing:

• How quickly your identity and operational need documents can be verified.
• Whether the application information is complete or needs clarification.
• The time taken by AusCheck to complete background checking.
• Printing and delivery time once the application is approved.

Submitting accurate documents early and responding quickly to any queries will help your card be approved as fast as possible.

Yes. High volume and multi site employers usually gain lower per card costs and significant efficiency savings through ClientView's corporate MSIC solution.

Cost advantages for larger programmes

• Corporate pricing reflects consolidated volumes rather than one off individual applications.
• Bulk billing and central invoicing reduce transaction and administration costs.
• The portal and trained verifiers sharply reduce rework and processing delays.
• Fewer disruptions to site access avoid costly downtime for critical staff.

Over time, these efficiencies can materially lower the total cost of managing your MSIC obligations.

r. 6.08E allows issue of an MSIC to a current ASIC holder without repeating the identity verification criteria provided the person also has an operational need; the MSIC must expire on the ASIC's expiry date

Details

• ClientView can issue an MSIC that shares the ASIC's expiry date.

You may lodge identity + background checks first and supply the operational-need letter later

Details

• Regardless of when that letter arrives, the MSIC's expiry is tied to the month AusCheck finished its checks'2 or 4 years (or 12 months with a qualified criminal record) per r. 6.08I
• ClientView's Plan restates this safeguard for all Job-Ready files?

The MSIC system is national (r. 6.07B(1)), and all requirements in Part 6 of the Regulations apply to any declared maritime security zone in Australia

Details

• Local operators may have additional procedures, but core MSIC requirements are uniform.

To apply you must:

(1) have 'operational need' (r. 6.07A(1)(c));

(2) provide identity documents (r. 6.08BB);

(3) pass the AusCheck background and security checks (r. 6.08BG, r. 6.08C); and

(4) if not a citizen, prove the right to work in Australia (r. 6.07A(1A)).

MSIC requirements apply to all persons needing unescorted access (r. 6.07A(1)(c); r. 6.07B)

Details

• Agencies may have their own procedures for MSIC issuance.

MSIC requirements apply to all persons needing unescorted access (r. 6.07A(1)(c); r. 6.07B)

Details

• Agencies may have their own procedures for MSIC issuance.

MSICs are distinct from security licenses in purpose, scope, and regulatory framework: Purpose Distinction: MSICs identify persons who've undergone background checks for maritime zone access (Regulation 6.07A(1)(a)) Security licenses typically authorize provision of security services MSICs are about access control, not service authorization Regulatory Framework: MSICs are governed by Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 Security licenses typically fall under state/territory legislation Different issuing bodies and requirements Functional Differences: MSICs required for anyone needing unmonitored maritime zone access (Regulation 6.07F) Not limited to security personnel -

Details

• stevedores
• ship crew
• contractors Security guards working in maritime zones need MSICs in addition to security licenses Notable Overlap: Some security officers in ports may need both: Security license to perform security duties MSIC to access maritime security zones unescorted The regulations don't exempt licensed security guards from MSIC requirements
• confirming these are separate credentials serving different purposes. An MSIC permits access but doesn't authorize security service provision

Regulation 6.07K(2) provides explicit exemption: "Subregulation (1) does not apply to a person who is a visitor to a zone for the purpose of boarding or leaving a vessel: (a) as part of a recreational activity; or (b) as a passenger." Scope of Exemption: Applies even to persons given disqualifying notices Covers boarding and disembarkation processes

Details

• transit through maritime security zones "Passenger" broadly interpreted for commercial carriage Practical Application: Cruise terminals within maritime security zones Passengers may traverse restricted areas No MSIC or escort technically required Operators may still implement screening procedures Limitations: Exemption specific to passenger activities Doesn't cover crew or service providers Limited to boarding/leaving purposes Doesn't authorize general port access Related Provisions: Regulation 6.07J(2) lists exemptions but doesn't specifically mention passengers Suggests 6.07K(2) provides broader passenger protection Recognizes impracticality of MSIC requirements for thousands of passengers This exemption balances security requirements with practical realities of passenger shipping
• recognizing passengers undergo separate security screening processes

There is no lower age limit. An issuing body may issue an MSIC to a person 'younger than 18' if the person satisfies the standard criteria in r. 6.08C(1)

(a)-(e): operational need:

• (a); identity verified
• (b); evidence of Australian citizenship
• (c)(i) or a visa that entitles the person to work in Australia
• (c)(ii) or Australian-registered-ship crew status (c)(iii)
• favourable security and criminal-history outcomes (d)-(e) .

For applicants under 14 at the time of application, the application must:

• Obtain written consent from a parent or guardian authorising all MSIC-issuance steps (r. 6.08C(4)(b))
• ' A minor's MSIC must expire at the earlier of: (i) six months after the holder's 18th birthday or (ii) two years after the month in which their background check was completed (r. 6.08I(2)(a))

Non-citizens can apply if they meet the following requirements: 

• overseas workers on a visa
• must provide evidence of entitlement to work in Australia (r. 6.07A(1A)). Acceptable evidence includes a visa with work rights.
• All other requirements apply:
  
  • proof of operational need
  • identity
  • and security/background checks (r. 6.07A(1); r. 6.07B; r. 6.08BB).

The MSIC will not be valid beyond the visa's expiry date (r. 6.08I(2)(b))

The regulations do not provide any exemption or special provision for members of the Australian Defence Force

Details

• All applicants must meet the same requirements: proof of operational need, identity, right to work (if not a citizen), and a security/background check (r. 6.07A(1); r. 6.07B; r. 6.08BB; r. 6.08BG)
• Defence personnel who require unescorted access to maritime security zones must apply and be assessed like any other applicant.

Applicants undergo an AusCheck background check, which assesses for convictions against 'maritime-security-relevant offences' (r. 6.08BG(2); r. 6.08BG(3); Schedule 6)

Details

• Disqualification depends on offence type, severity, and recency.

The regulations set no maximum age (r. 6.07A(1)). All applicants must meet the same requirements'

Details

• (for non-citizens) the right to work in Australia (r. 6.07A(1A))

The regulations require that an MSIC cannot be issued until the applicant demonstrates 'operational need' for unescorted access to a maritime security zone (r. 6.07A(1)(c); r. 6.07B definition of operational need). ClientView allow a 'Job Ready' application'you can complete your background check before securing a job. However, the card will not be issued until you supply evidence of operational need (

Details

• a job offer or contract)

The regs allow a 'residential address (

Details

• an address outside Australia)' (r. 6.07A(1)(b))
• and there is no citizenship requirement. However
• if not a citizen
• you must provide evidence that you are 'entitled to work in Australia' (r. 6.07A(1A))
• such as a valid visa with work rights. You must also meet proof of identity and operational need (r. 6.07A(1); r. 6.08BB)

Operational need means you require unescorted access to a maritime security zone at least once every 12 months (r. 6.07B definition; r. 6.07A(1)(c))

Details

• Non-citizens must also prove they are entitled to work in Australia (r. 6.07A(1A)).

There is no Australian residency requirement (see r. 6.07A(1)(b); 'residential address (

Details

• an address outside Australia)'). However
• if you are not an Australian citizen
• you must show evidence you are 'entitled to work in Australia' (r. 6.07A(1A)). All applicants must also prove 'operational need' (r. 6.07A(1)(c); r. 6.07B)

Any visa that entitles you to work in Australia makes you eligible to apply for an MSIC

Details

• Your MSIC will expire if your visa expires. (See r. 6.08C(1)(c)(ii), r. 6.08I(2)(b))

You do not need a separate government security clearance, but you must pass an AusCheck background check covering criminal, security, and immigration records. (See r. 6.08C(1)(d), AusCheck scheme)

Having pending charges does not automatically disqualify you

Details

• However, a conviction for a relevant offence may impact your eligibility, and you must notify the issuing body if convicted and sentenced.

Regulation references

See r. 6.08LB

Minor traffic offences generally do not affect MSIC eligibility

Details

• Only convictions for 'maritime security relevant offences' or certain serious criminal offences may disqualify you.

Regulation references

See r. 6.07B for definitions of relevant offences

You must be at least 14 to apply for an MSIC

Details

• Special parental or guardian consent is required for applicants under 18. (See r. 6.08C(4))

You do not need to be an Australian citizen, but you must be either a citizen or have a valid visa entitling you to work in Australia. (See r. 6.08C(1)(c))

You can only hold one valid MSIC at a time

Details

• If you apply for a new card with a different provider, your old MSIC must be returned or cancelled.

Regulation references

See r. 6.08T, r. 6.08P

You may apply for an MSIC if you hold a visa that entitles you to work in Australia

Details

• Your MSIC will expire when your visa does. (See r. 6.08C(1)(c)(ii), r. 6.08I(2)(b))

Spent convictions generally do not affect your eligibility for an MSIC, unless specifically excluded under the Crimes Act

Details

• Only certain offences and convictions (not spent) can make you ineligible.

Regulation references

See r. 6.07B; Crimes Act 1914, Part VIIC

There are no medical or physical fitness requirements for obtaining an MSIC

Details

• The eligibility is based on identity, background check, operational need, and legal status'not health.

Regulation references

No reference in regulations; see eligibility criteria in r. 6.08C

The Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 and the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Regulations 2003 establish the legal framework for all MSIC requirements and processes. (See r. 1.01, r. 1.03)

The regulations provide different pathways depending on the type of background check failure: Automatic Disqualification (Regulation 6.08D): Tier 1 offense conviction Adverse security assessment (non-qualified) Adverse criminal intelligence assessment Results in written "disqualifying notice" Cannot enter maritime security zones May notify employer Qualified Security Assessment (Regulation 6.08H): Secretary reviews and decides May approve if no threat to maritime security Written notice of decision provided Review rights under ASIO Act Adverse Criminal Record - Tier 2/3 (Regulation 6.08F): Can apply to Secretary for approval Secretary considers offense nature, time elapsed, conduct 30-day decision timeframe Written decision with reasons Rights and Notifications: Written notice required for all rejections Reasons must be provided Appeal rights explained Review available through Administrative Review Tribunal (6.08Z) The system balances security requirements with procedural fairness, providing pathways for review except for the most serious disqualifying factors.

The regulations don't explicitly require 5 years of address history, though this may be an AusCheck requirement referenced in Regulation 6.08BB(2)(b): "information required under the AusCheck Regulations 2017 to be included in an application for a background check." Potential Solutions in Regulations: Regulation 6.08BC provides for alternative identification requirements when standard requirements cannot be met: Issuing body can apply to Secretary for alternatives Must explain why requirements cannot be satisfied Secretary considers whether alternatives enable background checks Approval/refusal within 30 days Relevant Provisions: Individual Applicants; First Time Applicants explicitly accommodated (6.08C(1)(c)) Foreign documents acceptable with authentication (6.07H) Category D only requires current address proof (less than 6 months) No specified historical address requirements in MSIC regulations The flexibility for Individual Applicants; First Time Applicants and alternative arrangements suggests the system can accommodate those without extensive Australian address history, though specific requirements may be set by AusCheck regulations rather than MSIC regulations.

Regulation 6.08BB(2)(a) specifies the exact documentation requirements for MSIC applications: Category A identification document (defined in Regulation 6.07B(1)): For Australian-born persons: Australian birth certificate or notice under section 37 of the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 For others: Valid document providing evidence of the start of identity in Australia (e.g., naturalization certificate, visa, movement record) Category B identification document that is different from Category A: Current and valid document with photo and signature issued by government Examples

Details

• driver's licenses or passports (Australian or foreign) Category C identification document different from both A and B: Current valid document showing use of identity in the community Examples include Medicare cards or private health insurance cards Category D identification document (if residential address not shown in other documents): Valid document showing current residential address
• less than 6 months old Example: utilities notice All documents must be provided in person as originals (Regulation 6.08BB(2)(a))
• and the issuing body must verify identity at the time of document submission (Regulation 6.08BB(4)). If documents are not in English
• Regulation 6.07HA requires an accurate translation

If your MSIC was issued for more than 2 years, you must notify your issuing body in writing of all changes to your residential address by no later than 2 years and 30 days before the card's expiry (r. 6.08LD). Failure to do so is an offence. The issuing body must update AusCheck within 7 days (r. 6.08LDA).

AusCheck conducts four mandatory background checks:

1) Criminal history check through CrimTrac covering all Australian jurisdictions;

2) ASIO security assessment for terrorism and national security concerns;

3) Immigration status verification confirming right to work;

4) Politically motivated violence assessment. These checks examine your past 10 years (or from age 16 if younger than 26).

‍

You must declare ALL criminal history including:

• spent convictions
• charges
• and court appearances. Non-disclosure of any criminal history
• even minor offences
• can result in automatic rejection for providing false information

If you legally change your name, you must notify your issuing body in person within 30 days and provide an original, valid document showing the new name. The issuing body must notify AusCheck and issue a replacement MSIC. (r. 6.08LCA, r. 6.08L)

The Regulations do not explicitly address changes to appearance. However, if your identity or ability to be recognised is affected, you should contact your issuing body for guidance, as a new photo may be required for reissue. (No direct reference; see r. 6.08BB on photo requirements for initial issue)

A new (replacement) MSIC is required if your name changes (r. 6.08L, r. 6.08LCA), if your card is lost, stolen, destroyed (r. 6.08L, r. 6.08R), or you have an operational need for a different kind of MSIC. Updates such as changes to address (for cards >2 years) must be reported, but do not always require a new card (r. 6.08LD).

If your MSIC is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must notify your issuing body within 7 days (r. 6.08R). For other security concerns, contact your issuing body as soon as possible for guidance.

The Regulations do not require MSIC holders to notify the issuing body of overseas travel, extended or otherwise. However, if your operational need or eligibility status changes during travel, you must notify the issuing body. (No reference found in the Regulations)

Regulation 6.08C(1)(c) explicitly provides for international worker eligibility through multiple pathways:

Primary Pathway - Work Visa Holders (6.08C(1)(c)(ii)): "the issuing body is satisfied that the person holds a visa entitling him or her to work in Australia" Must have current Australian work visa Visa type must permit employment MSIC validity limited to visa expiry (Regulation 6.08I(2)(b))

Alternative Pathway - AISR Crew (6.08C(1)(c)(iii)): "the issuing body is satisfied that the person is a crew member of a regulated Australian ship that is registered in the Australian International Shipping Register" Don't need work visas Limited to 2-year MSICs (Regulation 6.08I(2)(d)) Must be crew of specifically registered vessels

Special Provisions for Foreign Workers:

• Foreign officials may obtain white MSICs for official duties (Regulation 6.07F(2)(c))
• Foreign crew in offshore zones have exemptions (Regulation 6.07J(2)(g))
• Foreign documents may need authentication under Hague Convention (Regulation 6.07H)
• Non-English documents require certified translations (Regulation 6.07HA)
• Practical Considerations: Same background check requirements apply
• Must meet operational need test
• May face document authentication requirements
• Visa expiry creates MSIC expiry regardless of 2 or 4-year selection

To maintain continuous MSIC validity, you must have an ongoing operational need (r. 6.08C(1)(a)), keep your personal details current, and ensure your background check remains valid. Your MSIC expires after 2 or 4 years from your background check, or earlier if you lose operational need, fail a check, or have changes in status (see r. 6.08I, r. 6.08M(1)(f)-(g), r. 6.08C). You must return your card if it expires or you lose operational need (r. 6.08P, r. 6.08Q).

The regulations establish MSICs as nationally portable credentials without geographic limitations

Details

• Notably absent from the regulatory framework are any provisions restricting MSICs to specific ports, regions, or states
• The definition of "maritime security zone" in the context of Regulation 6.07J applies broadly without geographic qualification
• The portability is reinforced by several regulatory features: Regulation 6.08T requires registers to record only "the general reason that he or she has an operational need to hold an MSIC" without specifying locations The operational need definition in Regulation 6.07F(1) refers to "a maritime security zone" (singular) or zones (plural) without limitation No provision requires separate MSICs for different ports or states The background check and security assessment process is federal, not state-based This national validity supports the maritime industry's operational needs, where workers frequently move between ports for seasonal work, relief positions, or specialized tasks
• Vessel crew, in particular, benefit from this portability as ships move between Australian ports
• The only geographical consideration in the regulations relates to temporary MSICs under Regulation 6.08KA(1)(c)(v), which must specify the zones where valid, but this limitation doesn't apply to permanent MSICs.

The Regulations do not mention updating an MSIC or the MSIC database to record new qualifications. Only changes to identity, operational need, or eligibility are addressed. (No reference found in the Regulations)

Note 2 to Regulation 6.08J specifically references privacy restrictions: "National Privacy Principle 7, set out in Schedule 3 to the Privacy Act 1988, restricts the uses to which an identifier of an individual can be put." MSIC as Identification:

1) Contains photo and name (Regulation 6.08J(4)(d))

2) Has unique identifying number Government-issued through authorized bodies

3) Subject to strict form requirements.

Legal Restrictions: Privacy Act limits use of government identifiers Issued specifically for maritime security purposes No provision authorizing general ID use Regulation 6.07A defines purpose narrowly for maritime security zones

Practical Limitations: Not recognized as general government ID No address or date of birth typically shown Security features designed for maritime use Issuing bodies aren't government agencies (except Customs)

Appropriate Uses: Maritime security zone access Verification of maritime work authorization Maritime industry employment verification Inappropriate Uses: General proof of age Banking identification Non-maritime government services Organizations should not adopt MSIC numbers as identifiers under Privacy Principle 7, and holders should use conventional ID for non-maritime purposes.

There is no requirement in the Regulations to obtain a new MSIC solely due to a change of employer, as long as you maintain an operational need and your personal details remain current. However, if your operational need lapses (i.e., you no longer require access to maritime security zones), your MSIC may be cancelled. (See r. 6.08M(1)(f)-(g))

ClientView provides exclusive Silver and Gold premium services designed to remove uncertainty and significantly accelerate your MSIC application process

Details

• These services are exceptionally quick because ClientView manages every step on your behalf
• Using our comprehensive understanding of the MSIC application process, we streamline verification, documentation and submission procedures, guiding you seamlessly through each phase
• With our Gold service, we also coordinate directly with your employer to secure your Operational Need letter, essential for port access authorisation, potentially saving you an extra day in processing
• Throughout the process, we maintain proactive communication, ensuring complete transparency and satisfaction
• Typically, your entire application is finalised during a single phone conversation, making this the quickest and simplest way to obtain your MSIC.

Regulation 6.08C(4) specifically addresses MSICs for minors: Requirements for Under-18 Applicants: Must meet all standard criteria (operational need, identity, eligibility) If under 14 at application: requires written parental/guardian consent Consent must cover all issuing body functions

Details

• background checks Special Expiry Rules (6.08I(2)(a)): MSICs for under-18s expire at the EARLIER of: 6 months after 18th birthday 2 years after background check completion month Consent Requirements: Parent defined broadly in Regulation 1.03 (includes Family Law Act definition) Guardian acceptable alternative to parent Written consent must be provided with application Consent covers entire process including background checks Practical Implications: 17.5-year-old applicants face very short validity periods Must reapply as adults for continued access Full adult background checks required for new MSIC after 18 Common for maritime industry apprentices/trainees No Other Special Provisions: Same background check requirements Same operational need test Same display obligations Same penalties for non-compliance This framework balances youth employment opportunities in maritime industries with security requirements and child protection considerations

The Regulations and MSIC Plan do not provide for the addition of endorsements to an existing MSIC

Details

• Any additional operational needs or changes generally require a new or replacement MSIC to be issued, not an endorsement.

Regulation references

No reference found in r. 6.08C, 6.08L

You apply for either a Blue or White MSIC based on your operational need, not both simultaneously

Details

• Your employer's operational need letter should specify which type of MSIC is required for your position
• If your role changes and requires a different MSIC type, you would need to consult with your Issuing Body about the appropriate process
• The background checking requirements are the same for both types.

All applicants must pass a national security check (AusCheck), which reviews convictions for 'maritime-security-relevant offences' (r. 6.08BG; Schedule 6)

Details

• The assessment considers the offence, the sentence, and when it occurred
• Not all criminal records are disqualifying, but convictions for serious offences or recent sentences may lead to ineligibility (see r. 6.08BG(2)-(7); Schedule 6).

The regulations do  not restrict online applications (no prohibition in Part 6). However, you  must provide identity documents that comply with r. 6.08BB (originals or  certified copies) and meet all other requirements for proof and verification.  Application processes are set by each issuing body in their MSIC plan (r.  6.07Q(2)).

After you submit your MSIC application, ClientView verifies your details, initiates the required checks and manages card production and dispatch.

What happens behind the scenes

• Your identity documents and operational need evidence are reviewed by trained staff.
• ClientView submits required information to AusCheck for background assessment.
• Results are reviewed against MSIC eligibility rules before approval.
• Approved applications move to card production and delivery to you or your employer.

Throughout this process your application status is updated in the portal so you and your employer can track progress.

ClientView uses streamlined invoicing and bulk billing so MSIC costs can be managed centrally and aligned with your internal finance processes.

How corporate billing works

• Invoices can be issued to the organisation rather than individual applicants.
• Applications can be grouped by site, business unit or cost centre for easier reconciliation.
• Invoices are issued promptly so payment does not delay card processing.
• Remittance and status reporting make it simple to match payments to specific applications.

This approach reduces ad hoc payments, simplifies budgeting and improves visibility of MSIC expenditure.

ClientView offers the most competitive per-card pricing in the market, so volume discounts are not required. All corporate clients benefit from our lowest published MSIC fees, combined with hyper-efficient finance processes that yield the best total cost of ownership .

You may wear glasses or a head covering in your MSIC photo only if required for medical or religious reasons

Details

• Otherwise, your face must be fully visible and free from obstructions. (Photo standards: r. 6.08J(4)(d); see also government guidelines)

The photo must be recent, passport-style, high quality, showing your full face, with a plain background and no headwear or glasses unless for medical/religious reasons. (See r. 6.08J(4)(d); Australian passport standards)

The MSIC scheme sits within Australia's broader maritime and offshore security framework and focuses on background checking people who need unescorted access to secure areas.

How MSIC fits into the wider framework

• It supports laws designed to protect ports, ships and offshore facilities from unlawful interference.
• It complements, but does not replace, local site access cards or safety requirements.
• AusCheck background checks help ensure cardholders are suitable from a security perspective.
• Facility operators still control who may enter specific areas and when.

Together, these measures help protect critical maritime infrastructure while allowing legitimate trade and activity to continue.

r. 6.07H lets the issuing body insist on foreign-document authentication. r. 6.07HA obliges you to supply an original or certified English translation for any non-English ID

Regulation 6.08BB(2) requires in-person presentation of three different identity documents (A, B, C) and, where needed, a Category D address proof

Details

• The same document cannot satisfy two categories, but the Secretary can approve alternatives under r. 6.08BC?

Certified copies must be signed by an authorised certifier

Details

• a Justice of the Peace
• police officer
• or other person legally empowered to certify documents. Check your issuing body's list. (See r. 6.08BB(2); local certifier lists)

You must provide:

• One document from Category A
• One different document from Category B
• One different document from Category C
• And if none of those show your current residential address, one from Category D

Category A — Proof of Start of Identity in Australia

Provide ONE of the following:

• Australian birth certificate
• Australian Citizenship Certificate or naturalisation certificate
• ImmiCard (for eligible visa holders)
• Australian visa with evidence of right to remain in Australia

Category B — Photographic Proof of Identity and Signature

Provide ONE of the following, different from Category A:

• Current, valid Australian or foreign passport
• Current, valid Australian driver’s licence
• Proof of age card (issued by a government authority)
• Other government-issued photo identification (must include signature)

Category C — Evidence of Use of Identity in the Community

Provide ONE of the following, different from A and B:

• Medicare card
• Private health insurance card
• Centrelink card
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs card
• Tertiary student card
• Seniors card
• Membership card issued by a registered club

Category D — Current Proof of Residential Address

Provide ONE of the following if your address is not shown on your other documents. Documents must be less than 6 months old:

• Utility bill (electricity, gas, water, phone, etc.)
• Council rates notice
• Recent bank statement
• Government correspondence showing your name and address
• Tenancy agreement or rent receipt

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If you cannot meet a requirement, your issuing body can apply for approval of alternative identification documents from the Secretary, explaining the circumstances.

Regulation references

See r. 6.08BC

If your documents are not in English, you must supply an original or certified translation into English, along with the original document.

Regulation references

See r. 6.07HA

Category A: proof of start of identity (e.g. birth certificate, ImmiCard)

Details

• Category B: photo/signature ID (e.g. passport, driver's license)
• Category C: evidence of community identity (e.g
• Medicare card)
• Category D: recent proof of address (e.g. utility bill). (See r. 6.08BB(2); definitions in r. 6.07B)

Originals do not need certification if presented in person

Details

• If certified copies are needed (e.g. for translations or remote verification), a qualified person must certify them as true copies. (See r. 6.08BB(2), r. 6.08BC)

If your current address is not shown on other ID documents, you must provide a recent (less than 6 months old) Category D document showing your residential address. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a)(iv))

Originals must be provided for verification. Certified copies are accepted only in approved circumstances (

Details

• translations or if allowed by the Secretary). (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a); r. 6.08BC)

Children (under 18) need the same categories of ID, but parental/guardian consent is required for applicants under 18. Additional requirements apply for those under 14. (See r. 6.08C(4))

A current foreign passport is acceptable as a Category B document for photo ID and signature

Details

• Some foreign documents may require additional verification or translation. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a)(ii))

You must present original documents for in-person verification

Details

• Digital/scanned copies may be uploaded after this step for record-keeping but are not accepted for initial verification. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a))

If any identification document is not in English, you must submit an original or certified copy of an accurate English translation along with the original document.

Regulation references

See r. 6.07HA

If you cannot provide a required document, the issuing body may seek approval for alternative identification requirements from the Secretary

Details

• You will need to provide supporting documents and reasons.

Regulation references

See r. 6.08BC

If you don't have a birth certificate, you may use other accepted Category A documents (

Details

• a naturalisation certificate
• ImmiCard
• or visa documents) to prove the start of your identity in Australia. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a)(i))

Documents may

Details

• an Australian passport
• valid work visa
• or ImmiCard showing your right to work in Australia. (See r. 6.08C(1)(c)(ii))

Acceptable address proof (Category D)

Details

• utility bills
• bank statements
• rates notices
• or government correspondence with your current residential address
• dated within the last six months. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a)(iv); examples in regs)

Copies of your documents are stored by the issuing body for at least three years after your background check or last MSIC application, for audit and compliance. (See r. 6.08U(2A))

You may need to provide evidence of employment or operational need to access maritime security zones, but not for all applications. 'Job Ready' MSIC applicants can apply before securing employment but must prove operational need before receiving the card. (See r. 6.07F, r. 6.08C(1)(a))

You do not need an Australian passport. Other Category A documents include: 

• a birth certificate
• ImmiCard
• or visa documents

All of the above may be used to establish identity. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a)(i))

You must provide originals for in-person verification

Details

• Certified copies may only be accepted in certain cases (e.g., translated documents or if originals are not available), but this must be approved. (See r. 6.08BB(2); r. 6.08BC for alternatives)

An ImmiCard may be accepted as a Category A identification document if it proves your legal status in Australia

Details

• Check with your issuing body for specific acceptance. (See r. 6.08BB(2); Home Affairs guidance)

You must present original documents in person to the issuing body for verification

Details

• Only after verification may scanned/digital copies be kept on file. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a); 'original')

You must provide a current and valid (not expired) driver's license if using it as a Category B identification document for MSIC. (See r. 6.08BB(2)(a)(ii); 'current and valid')