Private investigation is a unique and evolving field which has seen consistently high demand for new talent over the last decade. Investigators work as individuals or as contractors to investigation firms, servicing insurers, lawyers and other clients to gather information so these clients can make informed decisions about the application of their policies and processes. Investigators need excellent people and (written and verbal) communication skills, very good self organisation and time management, and an analytical mindset. The Certificate III Investigative Services teaches a methodology and practice standards to help channel these skills into compliant, top quality investigations.
To enrol, just complete and return our Enrolment Form (find it here).
About the course
This is a qualification for investigators, responsible for factual investigation and inquiry work or covert surveillance operations. The aim of this course is to develop your practical skills and processes for effectively conducting investigations in the private sector in Australia. Investigators operate under limited supervision and use discretion and judgement to search for information about a person’s character, actions or work and gather evidence that may be used in court.
Occupational titles may include:
- inquiry agent
- private investigator
This qualification provides occupational specialisations in factual investigation and surveillance, and a pathway to further learning and work in investigations management.
Investigators undertaking surveillance operations are required to operate a surveillance vehicle in compliance with road and traffic laws.
This course is suitable for:
- Investigators in insurance, assessment, fraud, safety or compliance
- Those wishing to adapt their existing people and information-handling skills to a new field
- School-leavers looking for a career which offers flexibility, high demand for your skills, and something new every day
- Anyone else who may be interested! Call us to discuss how investigation skills may be useful for you.
Investigation licences
This qualification is required to obtain an investigation licence from your state’s issuing body (usually the police), often requiring specific units. Prospective investigators also need to complete other checks to receive a licence which are determined by each state body, and separate fees will apply.
View your state’s licence training requirements (the following links take you to external websites):
Victoria – note: your Cert III must be no more than 12 months old to obtain a licence in Victoria, and it must be issued by an approved provider like Wise Workplace Training.
Western Australia – note that these requirements have been updated in February 2025.
Australian Capital Territory – currently no requirement for training to obtain an ACT licence, but a NSW licence is often preferred by clients.
Learning modes
We offer two modes to complete the course:
- Self-paced online: enrol anytime and study at your own pace using our online resources and assessments. This works best for learners who have a workplace where they can carry out investigations to support their study.
- Facilitator-led online classes: enrol anytime to attend up to 9 online classes covering the entire course. Online classes are delivered in 2 semesters, and you can complete the modules in any order.
Each program is the same price, and learners can move between the options to suit their needs during the study period. Contact us to view the upcoming schedule of classes.
Facilitator-led online dates
The current semester of dates follows. Dates for 2026 will be announced in November.
| Date | Time | Units covered |
| 12/9/25 | 10am-1pm | Session 1: Investigation fundamentals
CPPINV3026 Work effectively in investigative services (C) CPPINV3029 Provide quality investigative services to clients (C) |
| 18/9/25 | 9am-12pm | Session 2: Compliance and Confidentiality
PSPSEC009 Handle sensitive information (A) BSBESB305 Address compliance requirements for new business ventures (A) |
| 26/9/25 | 10am-1pm | Session 3: Factual investigations
CPPINV3027 Develop investigation plans (C) CPPINV3030 Conduct factual investigations (A) |
| 3/10/25 | 10am-1pm | Session 4: Interviews
CPPINV3031 Conduct interviews and take statements to support investigations (A) PSPREG006 Produce formal record of interview (A) |
| 10/10/25 | 1.30pm-4.30pm | Session 5: Locates
CPPINV3028 Investigate and locate subjects (C) |
| 17/10/25 | 1.30pm-4.30pm | Session 7: Surveillance Investigations
CPPINV3033 Conduct covert surveillance operations (B) CPPINV3034 Organise and operate surveillance vehicles (B) CPPINV3035 Develop surveillance investigation reports (B) |
| 31/10/25 | 1.30pm-4.30pm | Session 6: Factual Reports
CPPINV3032 Develop factual investigation reports (A) |
| 7/11/25 | 1.30pm-4.30pm | Session 8: Safety and Service
HLTWHS003 Maintain work health and safety (A) FNSMCA313 Serve legal process (group C) |
| 21/11/25 | 1.30pm-4.30pm | Session 9: Giving evidence
PSPCRT007 Compile and use official notes (A) CPPSEC3124 Prepare and present evidence in court (C) |


