Demystifying Security Clearances

About the Event

The growing need for sovereign workforce presents as a challenge to both Government, industry, and education providers.

Pathway programs and activities, including career-ready placements, cadetships, internships, and work experiences, are of increasing importance in building and sustaining workforce, however, the lag time for obtaining security clearances presents as a challenge.

This is particularly true for shorter term workplace engagement activities, with clearance processing times reportedly delaying starts from 6 weeks to 6 months.

Providing these opportunities for students outside of formal employment also requires a coordinated approach, with the University acting as the clearance sponsor.

2023 Event

Date: 20 October 2023
Time: 1100 – 1300
Location: Brennan Room, Shortland Hub, Callaghan Campus

The “Demystifying Security Clearances 2023” event is planned for all students (including higher degree research) and staff at the University of Newcastle to gain an understanding of the role of, and process involved in obtaining, security clearances. Attendees will also have an opportunity to have one-on-one conversations with employers, and also to ask questions specific to their own pathway to obtaining a clearance. The schedule for the event is as follows:

1100-1130: Security Clearance Process – what is a security clearance, why it’s useful to you, costs and opportunities for sponsorship through the University.

1130-1200: What can you do once you have a clearance – different types of roles available. University sponsorship of a security clearance – the scheme that will be set up.

1200-1215: Write your anonymous questions (paper/pens handed out, questions dropped into Q&A box).

1215-1300: Q&A session with employers – answers to anonymous questions, then break-out to discuss opportunities available once you have a security clearance – opportunities, placements, scholarships.