Top Secret-Privileged Access security clearance has replaced Positive Vetting as Australia’s highest-level security clearance.

The change standardises top secret security clearances under a single vetting authority managed within the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.

There is no change to Negative Vetting 1 and 2 security clearances, which remain under the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).

AGSVA Assistant Secretary Vetting Mel Flett said Top Secret-Privileged Access (TS-PA) will achieve the same outcome as Positive Vetting. 

“Every agency did Positive Vetting a little differently, and that led to people not being able to move between agencies as quickly or effectively as Government liked,” they said. 

“TS-PA is seeking to make it really easy for someone to move between government agencies without having to be re-vetted.” 

Personnel with a Positive Vetting clearance do not need to take any action. 

With AGSVA’s support, clearances will be gradually transferred to the TS-PA Vetting Authority over the next several years.

Existing Positive Vetting clearance holders are likely to transfer to a TS-PA security clearance at the time of their revalidation.

This is not likely to commence until next year.

AGSVA will contact individuals before they are required to transition to TS-PA with more information about the process and what applicants can expect.