Changes to top secret security clearances
By Corporal Jacob Joseph
20 November 2025
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.
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