Private Investigator
Note: Completion of a TAFE SA course does not guarantee an employment outcome. Formal requirements other than educational qualifications (eg licensing, professional registration), may apply to some occupations.
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You can't miss them on the screen, as they hide behind their 'sunnies' and try to blend into the crowd in their out- of-date trench coats. In real life, investigators go about their business far more discreetly and professionally.
There are currently around 59 Private Investigators working in South Australia. Employment is largely full-time and most work in the Public Administration and Safety industry. Over half of persons in this occupation are males and most are employed in the Adelaide metropolitan area. This occupation has an older age profile with more than half of investigators aged 45 years or older. |
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Introduction
Investigators may be called upon by clients to locate missing persons, to look into suspected criminal activities or to inquire into a suspected false worker's compensation claim. They are also engaged to conduct independent assessments of allegations of misconduct against an employee.
The Institute of Mercantile Agents, President and inquiry agent, Michael Waddell, says that first he meets with clients to discuss their case and to establish deadlines. Michael's particular role is to carry out surveillance. He video tapes or photographs people under investigation in the hope of discovering evidence that may help to prove claims made against them. Client confidentiality and keeping a very low profile are top priorities in this occupation. Clients generally want to avoid others finding out that they have initiated an investigation, especially if the person under investigation is later cleared of any wrongdoing.
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Education Requirements
Although there is no formal training required to be an investigator, inquiry agents recommend that applicants complete Year 11 or equivalent, and be able to demonstrate excellent communication skills. If successful, applicants will receive on-the-job training, the length of which will be determined by the person's maturity and ability to grasp the job. Various courses are available from registered training organisations.
TAFE SA offers the following courses that may assist in finding employment in this occupation:
Certificate IV in Government (Investigation)
Diploma in Government (Investigation)
Contact Consumer and Business Services (CBS) on 131 882 for information regarding obtaining the relevant licence.
Experience in related occupations such as policing, will make it much easier to secure employment as an investigator or inquiry agent, as you would have gained relevant skills and important networks.
Career Path
Investigators find work in several business areas including insurance, law, accounting and government agencies.
The demand for investigators and inquiry agents, particularly in the area of corporate and insurance fraud, will increase dramatically in the next five years. The complexity of these crimes and the necessary focus of police resources on crimes against the person will provide an opportunity for the private sector to undertake preliminary investigations.
Industry
Finance and Insurance
Nature of the Job
And contrary to movie images, investigators don't drive recklessly down the wrong side of a street in pursuit of suspects or break into suspects houses. They must adhere to the traffic and criminal laws just like everybody else. Many assignments require witnesses and suspects to be interviewed by the investigator. Other assignments require no contact and simply involve the investigator in observation and the recording of images.
'In a lot of cases, such as workers compensation claims, employers may just want to check the genuineness of someone's claim. So rather than contacting the police, they'll employ an investigator.'
Typical Physical Working Environment
'You need to have the ability to observe and make accurate judgements, and you've got to be able to think on your feet,' says a local inquiry agent who specialises in corporate insurance fraud investigations. Good instincts for sensing when things are not quite right, and an inquisitive nature to help get to the bottom of matters are essential skills for investigators. People skills and having the flexibility to deal with unforeseen and difficult situations are also needed in this occupation. Because detail is important, investigators also need sound planning and record-keeping skills, and the capacity to write quality reports.
Typical Occupational Example
Improvements in technology have assisted this occupation. Photographic and sound equipment is smaller, more powerful and provides more precise data. Not surprisingly, the Internet has become an excellent research tool for investigators. In addition, investigators need a vehicle, a mobile phone, a dictaphone, a computer and binoculars.
Earning Potential
Investigators generally work on a consultancy basis and are paid an hourly rate of between $35 and $50. There are some self employed inquiry agents working who suggest the salary for a 70 hour week, can in some cases go as high as $75,000 per year. Although many companies utilise inquiry agent and investigators' services, it is a very competitive environment and the turnover rate is very low.
Further Information
For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or enquire online