The SIA confirmed that the blueprint was beginning to take shape and will be more business focused. The key components will include a new regulatory body outside of Government, the licensing of every businesses involved in providing contracted security services and a register of individuals fit and proper to work in the security industry underpinned by effective compliance and enforcement.

The future plans also include applications for new applicants being channelled through employers and the removal of the renewal process, being replaced by a regular subscription. The revocation and suspension process will remain in place. Plans for improvements to service delivery by the SIA include a better bulk application process for companies, website improvements and electronic contact and payment methods.

If red tape and costs are to be reduced for businesses then these items will need to be addressed. The future of the ACS hallmark was discussed and will continue in its current format until the new regime of business licensing is established.

The licensing process may allow existing ACS companies to automatically qualify for the new business licence. There was also strong support for the ongoing continuation of the Approved Contractor Scheme to continue to differentiate between the quality mark and the business licence scheme.