How to Verify a Licensed Private Investigator in Queensland
If you’re engaging a private investigator in Queensland, one of the most important questions you should ask is:
“Is my private investigator licensed in QLD?”
Queensland has strict laws governing who can legally conduct private investigations. Verifying an investigator’s licence protects your case, your privacy, and the admissibility of any evidence obtained.
This guide explains how to check a private investigator licence in Queensland, what to look for, and the red flags to avoid.
Are Private Investigators Required to Be Licensed in Queensland?
Yes.
Any person or company conducting private investigations in Queensland must hold a valid Security Provider Licence under the Security Providers Act 1993 (Qld).
Operating without the correct licence is unlawful and can seriously compromise:
Evidence admissibility
Court or tribunal outcomes
Client privacy and legal exposure
If you are unsure, it is entirely reasonable to ask:
“Is my private investigator licensed in QLD?”
A legitimate provider will expect — and welcome — that question.
How to Check a Private Investigator Licence in Queensland
Step 1: Ask for the Licence Details
A licensed investigator should be able to provide:
Their Queensland Security Provider Licence number
The licence class (Investigator / Security Firm)
The name of the licence holder (individual or company)
If an investigator is reluctant to provide this information, that is a red flag.
Step 2: Verify the Licence with Queensland Office of Fair Trading
You can independently verify licensing through the Queensland Office of Fair Trading (OFT) public register.
When checking, confirm:
The licence is current
The licence covers investigative work
The licence holder matches the business or individual you are dealing with
This is the most reliable way to check whether a private investigator is licensed in Queensland.
Step 3: Confirm Who Will Actually Do the Work
Some firms advertise in Queensland but subcontract investigations to third parties.
Ask clearly:
Who will attend site?
Who will conduct interviews?
Is that person also licensed in Queensland?
Are they an employee or subcontractor?
If the person doing the investigation is not licensed, the work may be unlawful — even if the company holds a licence.
Step 4: Check Insurance Coverage
Licensed investigators should hold appropriate insurance, including:
Professional indemnity insurance
Public liability insurance
Insurance protects clients if something goes wrong and is a key indicator of professional accountability.
Step 5: Ask About Lawful Scope and Evidence Handling
A professional investigator should be able to explain:
What investigative methods are lawful in Queensland
How evidence will be collected and preserved
Whether the evidence will be suitable for court, regulators, or Fair Work proceedings
Be cautious of anyone who guarantees outcomes or avoids discussing legal limits.
Step 6: Be Wary of “Virtual Offices”
Some interstate firms claim to be Queensland-based using:
Virtual office addresses
PO boxes
Serviced offices with no investigators present
Ask where the investigator is actually based and how quickly they can attend in person.
Local presence matters, particularly in regional Queensland.
Common Red Flags to Watch For
You should proceed with caution if an investigator:
Avoids providing licence details
Offers unusually low pricing with big promises
Is vague about who will conduct the investigation
Pressures you to proceed without a written scope
Claims licensing is “not really required”
Professional investigators do not cut corners.
Why Licensing Matters for Your Case
Engaging an unlicensed or unethical investigator can result in:
Evidence being ruled inadmissible
Breaches of privacy legislation
Regulatory or court scrutiny of your conduct
Financial loss and reputational damage
Choosing a licensed investigator isn’t just compliance — it’s risk management.
A Final Word for Queensland Clients
If you are asking “How do I check a private investigator licence in Queensland?” or “Is my private investigator licensed QLD?” — you are asking the right questions.
Legitimate investigators expect scrutiny.
Unlicensed operators avoid it.
Taking a few minutes to verify licensing can save months of legal and personal consequences later.
For a broader explanation of why licensing, insurance, and ethical practice are critical in regional matters, read our article on licensed and ethical investigators in regional Queensland.
About Regional Queensland Investigations
Regional Queensland Investigations Pty Ltd is a fully licensed and insured investigation firm, operating lawfully across Queensland and the Northern Territory.
We believe transparency, licensing, and ethical practice are non-negotiable — and we actively encourage clients to verify credentials before engaging any investigator.
If you need further guidance, or wish to confirm licensing requirements, we are always happy to assist.
