Event and venue security crew
Supply licensed crowd controllers to local venues, markets, parties and festivals on a casual job basis.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.
What it is
You organise and supply a small team of licensed security staff for events, bars, markets and private functions, handling entry checks, crowd control and incident reporting.
Your first three steps
- Check your state's licensing body for the crowd controller or security licence classes and the business licence required to supply guards
- Get insurance quotes and set up a roster system and simple event risk checklist
- Contact local venues, event organisers and councils to offer a trial event with a clear quote
Who pays
Event organisers, pubs and clubs, councils, sports clubs, wedding venues and private party hosts.
How it makes money
An hourly rate per guard for each shift, usually with a minimum shift length, and the margin is the difference between that and what you pay your staff.
Skills that help
- Calm and confident with crowds
- Rostering and organising people
- Clear communication and conflict de-escalation
Watch out for
- Licensing is by state or territory, and every guard you supply will probably need the right licence
- Public liability insurance, and workers compensation once you hire
- Check whether guards are employees or contractors, as incorrect classification can cause problems
- Work is often late nights and weekends, with unpredictable demand
- Incidents with intoxicated people, so keep clear incident reports and procedures
🔒 Full research report for Australia
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start an event security business?
Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on insurance, uniforms, equipment and any licensing costs. Every guard you supply will probably need the right licence, so check what applies in your state or territory.
How much can an event security crew business earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many events you win and the size of your crew. Demand can be unpredictable, with work often on late nights and weekends, so these are estimates only.
Do I need a licence to supply security guards in Australia?
Licensing is by state or territory, and every guard you supply will probably need the right licence, so check requirements. Also check public liability insurance, workers compensation once you hire, and whether guards are employees or contractors.
Other ways to run this business
Similar events ideas
Pop-up outdoor cinema nights
Run ticketed movie nights in local parks, school grounds and community spaces using portable screen and sound gear.
- A$4k-12k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Event and conference videographer
Film events, conferences and functions, then deliver highlight reels and full recordings to organisers.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Home-based AV gear hire
Hire out projectors, screens, speakers and mics from home to local groups, schools and small events.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- From home
Online formal wear hire from home
Hire out dresses and suits by post or local pickup, run from a spare room with a small stock.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- From home
Backyard party marquee hire
Hire a few pop-up and frame marquees with tables and chairs for local birthdays, christenings and garden parties.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- From home
Live streaming for events and meetings
Stream conferences, talks and ceremonies with cameras and a laptop-based setup.
- A$2.5k-12k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Photo: RyanMcGuire on Pixabay