About the Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC)
A Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) is a physical card that shows you had a valid background check and aren’t considered a security threat to either a:
- seaport
- offshore oil or gas facility.
It’s not an access card on its own, but it helps facility operators decide whether to let you into secure areas.
Who needs an MSIC
Your employer will tell you if you need an MSIC.
You likely need one if you either:
- require unescorted access to a maritime security zone(Opens in a new tab/window) at least once a year
- work in a security-sensitive maritime role.
For example, if you're:
- a port, port facility or port service worker
- a stevedore
- a truck driver
- a seafarer on a security regulated ship
- a foreign official employed by a diplomatic mission or consular post in Australia
- an offshore oil and gas facility worker
- an eligible biosecurity officer
- in a verifier role.
Types of MSICs
The type of MSIC to apply for depends on the access you need.
- Blue MSIC – for the maritime security zone or secure areas, such as fuel storage areas or cargo and baggage handling facilities.
- White MSIC – for security-sensitive roles that don’t require unescorted access to secure areas. For example, being directly involved in issuing MSICs. They are also for foreign officials.
Check with your employer if you’re not sure.
Cost
See fees for background checks.
Validity
An MSIC is valid for either 2 or 4 years.
The organisation you apply through (your issuing body) will determine the validity period based on your operational need. You'll need to provide evidence of your operational need to help your issuing body decide.
When to apply
Apply at least 6 weeks before you need an MSIC.
Most applications are processed sooner, but allowing extra time helps avoid delays.
You can apply before you know your exact start date if your issuing body offers a 'job ready' option. A job ready application means you can apply for a card and have a background check before you have an operational need. Once you have a job, your employer will help you provide evidence of operational need. The issuing body can then issue a card.
To find an issuing body that offers a job ready option, check the conditions of the issuing bodies for MSICs.
How to apply
Follow these steps to apply for an MSIC.
After you apply
AusCheck will arrange for our partner agencies to do a background check.
Application processing times vary based on individual circumstances and the complexity of each applicant’s background.
Background checks can take up to 6 to 8 weeks.
Learn more about how long background checks take.
Possible results
AusCheck will tell you when we have assessed your criminal history.
You’ll get one of 2 possible results:
- Eligible – you are assessed to have no security-relevant offences.
- Not eligible – you have a relevant Tier 1 or Tier 2 criminal offence, or a conviction and sentence to imprisonment for a Tier 3 offence.
If the result is eligible, you’ll be contacted by your issuing body with instructions to collect your MSIC.
If the result is not eligible, you’ll have a chance to respond to AusCheck before we make a final decision. Find out how we handle unfavourable results.
If you aren’t issued an MSIC
If you believe we made a mistake, you can appeal our decision.
If you receive a final letter stating you've been found not eligible due to an adverse criminal record, you may be able to apply within 28 days from the date of that letter to the Secretary of Home Affairs for a discretionary ASIC. See Apply for a discretionary MSIC.
Once you have an MSIC
There are important rules you must follow to manage your MSIC.