Many APS roles require a clearance
If the role is listed as "NV1", "NV2", or "PV", you cannot start until the clearance is granted — and the process is run by AGSVA (Australian Government Security Vetting Agency), not the agency hiring you.
AGSVA processing times have stretched to 6-12 months in recent years for higher-level clearances, which means a successful interview in March can mean a start date in October. Plan accordingly.
The four levels
- Baseline — Covers most APS roles touching sensitive information. Lighter check, faster processing.
- NV1 (Negative Vetting 1) — Required for SECRET-classified information. Longer questionnaire, financial check, foreign contact check.
- NV2 (Negative Vetting 2) — Required for TOP SECRET information. More extensive financial review, character references contacted.
- PV (Positive Vetting) — Required for the most sensitive material. Includes psychological assessment and detailed personal interview.
What AGSVA actually investigates
- Financial history (debts, bankruptcy, gambling)
- Foreign contacts and travel
- Character references
- Criminal history and police checks
- For NV2 and PV: detailed personal interviews
AGSVA's job is to identify risks that can be managed, not to find perfect candidates. Less is disqualifying than you'd think — but undisclosed issues are far more damaging than disclosed ones.
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Start your free trialWhat stays with you
- Clearances are portable between APS agencies for the duration of their validity (15 years for PV, 10 for NV2, 7 for NV1, 15 for Baseline).
- Reciprocity with Defence and intelligence community clearances exists but isn't automatic — confirm your existing clearance is recognised before assuming.
- A lapsed clearance over 12 months may need re-vetting from scratch.
What to do during processing
Plan for the gap. Don't quit your current job until your clearance is granted and your APS start date is confirmed. Some agencies offer non-cleared work in the interim — ask.
How GovPrep helps
GovPrep doesn't help with the clearance process directly, but understanding the timeline upfront helps you negotiate realistic start dates and plan your transition financially.