Locksmith business Australia

[minifhncc]

Hello,

I was thinking the other day what would be involved with starting up a locksmith business in Australia.

I personally don't have immediate plans to become a locksmith, but it does look like a possibility in five or so years.

In particular I have questions regarding restricted keying (the non MLA ones) such as Bilock and Abloy.

I've heard that Bilock only allow a certain number of dealers, regardless of how much money you have, and this is the reason that many locksmiths here aren't Bilock dealers (such as Benson Locksmiths).

How much would one be looking at to become a Bilock and Abloy dealer? And what would be involved if you were trying to become approved as a dealer, as becoming one apparently isn't easy?

And also, I have heard that the machine required to produce Bilock keys are around $20K. Is this correct?

I'd probably start off with just being a MLA member though and work my way up. This is probably the best way?

I think I would be looking at doing a Diploma in Security Engineering to get my license. I think this would be the quickest way, especially given that I'm a person who actually likes studying.

Anyway, I'd appreciate your thoughts (ie. current locksmiths in Australia) regarding this.

Cheers

[globallockytoo]

Not really a discussion for this forum. Discussion of high security systems is advanced forum access.

Bilock machinery is less than $10K total. Abloy can be as expensive, if not more so.

How'd you go with your glass doors?

[minifhncc]

Not really a discussion for this forum. Discussion of high security systems is advanced forum access.

Well it's not picking them or anything... so I don't see a problem, although a moderator might disagree...

In any case, although this is all interesting (that is, locksmith business), I actually can't do anything until about 5 years because of current commitments.

[iqarus]

what state are you in mate ?

the trade qualifications are standardised across the board these days, but the security licensing requirements are not, it differs state to state.

you can go and do your tafe courses while not actively working at a locksmith firm, but there is absolutely no alternative to the experience you will gain working through an apprenticeship.

the MLAA is a fantastic group, and being a full member gives you access to buying the MLAA's restricted six inline profile systems, the regional meetings are a great source of new techniques and industry news and the show each year is brilliant as well.

I personally wouldnt even entertain the idea of getting into high security systems like bilock and abloy until you're decently established and have made some friends with the council / hospital maintenance staff / pubs with pokies / coppers. realistically these are the only people that will purchase SCEC endorsed high security products. you simply wont get these jobs until you're well established and have made a solid reputation for yourself.

It's good that you're thinking so far ahead, but as i tell the apprentices nearly every day, its important to thoroughly learn the little things that matter before you focus on the big things you'll rarely use, ala learn to walk before you run.