The Security Systems section manages lock, key, magnetic card and alarm infrastructure throughout the University.

The primary role of the section is to ensure the safety and security of the University community and property through physical security infrastructure. The great majority of the University's alarm and access control infrastructure is centrally monitored twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. The Systems Section ensures that the equipment and communications that form the total network of alarm infrastructure functions optimally.

Services provided include:

• The management of the University's electronic security infrastructure including maintenance and repair. This infrastructure includes access control systems, security alarm and CCTV systems. The section also maintains accurate databases on infrastructure deployment. Access the service
• Managing the University's magnetic card issuance for access control. This process is a central responsibility and involves liaising with faculties and departments who ultimately control who accesses their areas. Accurate databases of issued cards are maintained. Access the service
• The management of the University's key and lock infrastructure including maintenance and repair. This includes managing key issuance and records centrally and on behalf of faculties and departments. Providing locksmithing and key cutting services to the University community. Access the service
• Providing day to day technical support to security operations, including the Central Monitoring Station, and specialised technical advice where required. Access the service
• Providing security consultant services to capital works projects, other areas within Campus Infrastructure Services, the University administration, faculties and departments. Representing the Security Service at meetings held to determine user security needs for refurbishment or new works.  Access the service
• Liaising on the development of policy for the proper management of the total University electronic and mechanical security infrastructure.
• Developing procedures and overseeing to ensure the competent monitoring of the electronic security network.
• Providing technical advice on new and old alarm and mechanical/barrier security installations.
• Providing security assessments of areas where required and assisting with obtaining quotations for installations where appropriate.
• Developing and supporting the Security Service intranet applications, ensuring the integrity of information and databases.
• Monitoring developments and trends in the security industry to ensure that the University maintains the highest standards in security technical applications and access control to ensure the safety of the University community.

The section is managed by Ms Karin Spirk, (02) 9351 4303. Ms Spirk is supported by Mr Brett Tamasauskas, Technical Resources, (02) 9351 3055.

Alarm systems are installed strategically in consultation with building users. The purpose of the systems is to enhance the safety of people and their property. The systems restrict access to authorised persons reducing the likelihood of intrusion and theft. These alarm systems are monitored twenty-four hours a day by the University's own fully equipped Central Monitoring Station. Mobile, radio equipped and highly trained Security Officers provide rapid response to alarm and other emergency situations. The access control and alarm systems maintain a permanent record of access and alarm activity.

The presence of the alarm systems is supported by 24 hour patrolling by Security Patrol Officers. Persons accessing alarmed areas should familiarise themselves with alarm functions. Some of the systems auto-set, however, others are designed to be set by users. Persons commonly using alarmed areas are all responsible for the integrity of the system.

The security of people and their property is everyone's responsibility and alarm systems form only one part of integrated security. Other important basic and simple security functions are:

• Patrolling.
• Awareness of personal safety and areas of risk.
• Common sense.
• Securing doors on exit and if remaining after hours.
• Setting alarms on departure.
• Having alarms suitable to user behaviours.
• Awareness of surroundings.
• Challenging strangers to your area in appropriate circumstances.
• Availability of emergency numbers (Security/Police), locations of phones or emergency contact points.
• Knowledge of others remaining in buildings after hours.
• After hours lighting.
• Location of transport, especially if working late.
• Reporting any suspicious behaviour to Security.