ASIC processing time?

[Bounceferret]

Has anyone RECENTLY renewed their ASIC and encountered an unexpectedly long processing time? ie. > 5 weeks
I'm heading for a record breaking 6 weeks.
I sent via express post and even called 1 week later to follow up to ensure everything was correct and not short of any required documents.
No reason for the background check to be delayed on my end. Same address, no criminal convictions etc :E

It was initially sent off to Auscheck 4 days after I posted, some 5 weeks ago.
Daily phone calls return a 'it's still being processed by our checking partners'.

Expires tonight but need to fly on Thursday. Lucky that useless AVID still has 2 months on it.
Strange that I'm banned for going unescorted at the stirke of midnight yet you still have 7 days to notifiy CASA of any criminal activity.... should be a 7 days grace period for pending applications.

[172sp]

I'm in the same boat too mate.. 5 weeks as of tomorrow.
Called today and was told 'It's been received, but we are unable to give you a timeframe'.

[YPJT]

5 weeks seems a hell of a long time for Auscheck in these days. Usual turnaround is about 5 working days or less.

Unfortunately the issuing body's hands are tied until the clearance comes back.

You haven't got form have you? :E

[josephfeatherweight]

Like most of the cynics out there, I anticipated a lengthy, drawn out affair for the initial issue of my ASIC - was pleasantly surprised to receive it in the mail approximately two weeks after sending the application to them. Good service, I thought... I had heard the horror stories from when the ASIC was first introduced. (My application was in May 2012...)

[K28]

Expires tonight but need to fly on Thursday. Lucky that useless AVID still has 2 months on it.

Wouldn't worry about it you don't have to have one to fly

From the casa webpage ASIC FAQ:-

Q: Are pilots still allowed to fly without an ASIC?

Yes. Pilots only need to have submitted an application for an AVID or an ASIC to operate an aircraft. The application will be processed and appropriate background checks undertaken prior to the AVID or ASIC being issued to an eligible pilot.

[Aussie Bob]

Just go flying. You still have an ASIC and as it does not state that it is expired, who can say that it is. Go on, read your ASIC, then tell me where exactly it states that it ever expires ...

[YPJT]

Yes. Pilots only need to have submitted an application for an AVID or an ASIC to operate an aircraft. The application will be processed and appropriate background checks undertaken prior to the AVID or ASIC being issued to an eligible pilot.
That meets CASA's requirement to fly as PIC of an aircraft. It does not satisfy the requirements of the Aviation Transport Security Act and Regs for an airport operator to allow unescorted access at a security controlled airport.

Geez CASA made a complete dogs breakfast of their issuing body program. They are the last ones who should be pedalling out advice on regulations for which they have no authority.

Just go flying. You still have an ASIC and as it does not state that it is expired, who can say that it is. Go on, read your ASIC, then tell me where exactly it states that it ever expires ...

Aviation Transport Security Regulations 2005

6.32 ASICs — period of issue and expiry

(1) Unless earlier cancelled, an ASIC expires at the end of the last
day of the month specified on it as its month of expiry.

Just because it doesn't have in big bold font "expiry" on the card, does not change the fact that if it is the first day of the next month and year after what is printed on the card. It is expired. No ifs, buts or maybes.

[training wheels]

I renewed my expired ASIC last month with Aviation ID and it took 2 weeks from when I sent the application off to receving the new ASIC in the mail. However anyone know why my card has the 'Australian Government CASA' label on it even though it was sent to and processed by Aviation ID?

[YPJT]

Aviation ID process the ASICs for CASA. Did you use a CASA form or Aviation ID form? I'd suggest that would be the clincher as to what was put in the discretionary info section at the bottom of the card.

[Arm out the window]

Go on, read your ASIC, then tell me where exactly it states that it ever expires ...

Erm, there's a month and year in big print just below my ugly mug shot, so that's probably a giveaway!

[Aussie Bob]

Erm, there's a month and year in big print just below my ugly mug shot, so that's probably a giveaway!

Is it? I just had a quick fish through my wallet. Mastercard - clear obvious "this card expires on xx date". Drivers license - clear obvious " this card expires on" xx date. Motorboat license - clear obvious "This card expires on" xx date. ASIC card - yes I do an agree it expires, not totally thick as a plank but where does it say it? The fact also remains .... How long could you go with one expired? I work in the industry most days and mostly at "secure" airports. Mine could have expired 2 years ago, no one checks it. The hassles come about when I fail to wear fluro .....

[JayG_Bull]

No problems here, 3 weeks tops.

[morno]

Does everything have to be in child's language for you to understand Bob?

Good luck fighting that in court.

morno

[evilducky]

When I got my last renewal it took all of 2 weeks... I'd even submitted it 2 months out just to make sure and was a bit unhappy that my new issue would expire 2 months earlier than my previous one. Better that than being without I guess. This was October 2011.

I'd be interested to see stats on monthly demand for ASICs.... surely there'd be a nice peak at the beginning of each year when all of those cadet and degree programs kick off. And if you assume that people don't make like me and accidentally cut time off their ASIC validity by renewing too early... a demand from one year repeats itself 2 years later.

Just a thought.

[YPJT]

evilducky,
Certainly an interesting question. Individual issuing bodies can obtain their own stats from Auscheck regarding turnaround times and data on a national level is also produced but not necessarily made public.
It is with Auscheck who collect the background checks from various sources where most delays occur. However the system is certainly a far improvement from the early days when it was a paper and post process through AFP.

In the grand scheme of things, I don't believe GA cadet programs would have a huge impact on the overall demand. I would suggest the totals would be a fairly low percentage of the numbers for industry as a whole.

[MartinCh]

I was going to apply before flying to Australia, letting them know when I'd be at the borders (4th of July) and such able to have it finalised, but thinking of the cost, till I have a job or about to do checkride/flight test, no point applying too early. It'd just eat up 1-3 months from the validity/expiry date.

evilducky, now that's stupid system. There should be period before expiry date in place, not to reduce the validity. Did you miss it by applying more than month ahead? I'm still to read some fine print on ASICs, other than CASA's website guidance for application/docs.
It's like Fi or IR ratings, if renewed within validity (last few months), would have the next period reduced by how early one got renewal/revalidation done/processed?

What's more 'fun', is that I have too many PRIMARY documents/IDs, but not that many secondary or tertiary. After some 2 months, I had reply from CLARC that I can use my PPL(A) from abroad since it got picture, but need attached translation (really??:confused:) from Spanish. I'll dig out the fax from Argentine CAA that I had for verification for USA.
nombre: Martin - > Name: Martin
piloto privado -> private pilot (and so on)

[YPJT]

MartinCh, You are lucky on the ID front that your pilot licence has a photo. The only other one I have heard of that has a photo is South Africa. This little bit of bureaucracy alone caused a lot of problems for people wanting to to come to Australia and fly.

One other form of secondary ID that is not often used is the verifiable reference. Is there anyone in Australia that you have known for 12 months or more? If they can provide their primary and secondary documents with a statement that they have known for 12 months or more, that also works.

The validity is taken to the last day of the month, two years from the month the security clearance was issued. The best possible outcome being a clearance issued on the first of the month and therefore expiring on the last day of the month in two years time. Used to be the last day of the prevous month.:mad:

Feel free to PM me for specific advice when you come over.

[MartinCh]

YPJT,

I had photo on my Czech or Slovak National Aeroclub/microlight for paragliding or AeCR ID. Those are since expired/unused. Those are LAA/national aeroclub so not 'full blood' CAA.
The PPL(A) from Argentina is plastic CC sized ID with picture. My US FAA commercial etc don't have photo, as the regs there state carrying govt issued photo ID alongside pilot licence, but heard some plans to implement pictures in near future.
I tacked full FAA IR(A) onto Arg PPL(A) validation, planned to knock off CPL(A) single engine, but ran out of time, being busy with instrument and instructing in R22. Now it seems I shouldn't bother with complex single in USA next time over, if I have inital CPL and FI done on twins, then can do SE CPL/FI add ons without complex time, haha. But thinking of 172rg or 182rg or C210 hours that'd be handy for some fun GA flying later on (jumper dropping). Or for familiarity if I'd do only SE CPL conversion in Australia later. Without time and Gr1/2 FI job with META, no point having twin CPL I guess. Especially as I want to instruct for sake of instructing, besides heli flying, if manageable. Will see.

So far I got 3 (different countries) passports, full UK driving licence with photo (coming to think of it, I can swap it for Aussie one no hassle), Arg PPL(A), but nothing worthy with Australian address on it, obviously. I can set up bank account from the UK, though. The only person I personally know, living in Australia (and not just knwing via internet) is a guy in Brisbane I met in Scotland in 2005/6, but would rather not bother him with some paperwork if I can manage myself.

Gotcha, regarding the ASIC. Thanks for the offer.
I find it inconsistent, that CoA doesn't need ASIC/security check, but Special PIlot LIcence DOES. Which is also validation of foreign papers, yet..

[Flying Binghi]

Hmmm... still a bit mystified what them ASIC'c are supposed to do/stop?

Probably the comments from when they were first introduced is right - all they do is 'look' to be doing something. Forget terrorists, any half smart school kid could work out ways around not having an ASIC.

Now all we've got is more useless costly bureaucratic nonsense to attend to each year..:hmm:





.

[kabukiman]

Can't you apply early and elect to have it sent out just as your old one expires? Wouldn't that save trouble?

[YPJT]

In an ideal world that would be great but the processing times are generally out of control of the issuing body. Rather it is governed by how long Auscheck takes to come back with the clearance. Once you submit an application to them, the only response you will receive, via the issuing body is "being processed by checking partners" meaning federal and state police through Crimtrac and ASIO.

So telling the issuing body not to do anything with your application until the last minute could well leave you with no card at all whilst they wait for Auscheck.

Most issuing bodies print out the cards and send them off on the same day that the Auscheck clearance comes through.

[Bounceferret]

Kabukiman
I received the renewal letter and had it in the express post box 36 hours later.

Now 5 days expired.
Clearly there is a fatal flaw in the renewal system.

[172sp]

Funny how they did manage to charge my credit card and send out a receipt within a few days of me sending off the renewal, 5 weeks later still no ASIC.

[Bounceferret]

You got a receipt?? :eek:

[172sp]

Affirmative!

[YPJT]

172sp,
Funny how they did manage to charge my credit card and send out a receipt within a few days of me sending off the renewal, 5 weeks later still no ASIC.
See my post above.

The cost for the background check is incurred as soon as it is submitted irrespective of how long it takes or the decision.

[Track5milefinal]

2 Weeks with Aviation ID Australia, Cant go wrong ! :ok:

[VH-XXX]

Maybe the Postman in Merimbula only works 2 days a week.... ;)

[jportzer]

What's more 'fun', is that I have too many PRIMARY documents/IDs, but not that many secondary or tertiary. I think the point is that the secondary/tertiary documents generally include something with an address (e.g. utility bill). Addresses, current and past, are part of your "identification" and background check process. So having proof of your address in Australia, as provided by utility bills or bank accounts in your name, serves a very real purpose that is not served by passports.

If you don't have a permanent address in Australia that could make you seem a bit "suspicious" - rightly or wrongly :(

[kabukiman]

Kabukiman
I received the renewal letter and had it in the express post box 36 hours later.

Now 5 days expired.
Clearly there is a fatal flaw in the renewal system.

sounds like you're right. I didn't have a problem but that's not acceptable if you've done what you can

Can you wear the expired one and just tell whoever asks that you are waiting on your new one? (that it has taken longer than usual)?

[Bounceferret]

Unfortunately not. I've had to organise an escort at every SC aerodrome since expiry. Not worth the alternative :{

Although.....
"I mean, seriously, how often do you really look at a mans shoes?"

[Flying Binghi]

Unfortunately not. I've had to organise an escort at every SC aerodrome since expiry. Not worth the alternative...

Amazing is it not. We got unknown unchecked illegals arriving by the boat load then put into our community. Meanwhile, Oz pilots get threatened fer not wearing a bit of idiotic plastic..:hmm:





.

[Flying Binghi]

Yer wonder just how much checking is done fer these ASIC's, they have enuf problems elsewhere...

"...Customs is beset by corruption allegations, and is perceived by senior police as a dysfunctional Canberra-centric bureaucracy top heavy with overpaid public servants. Between the AFP and state police there have been turf wars and computer mismatches.

In addition, the capitulation of the Rudd-Gillard governments to criminal people smugglers has had two critical impacts on Australia’s national security.

Firstly, it has diverted attention away from the detection of terrorists, drugs and guns. Secondly, asylum seeker arrivals have overwhelmed an already under-resourced ASIO’s ability to perform adequate security assessments..."


Poor old Abbott has got a bit of work ahead of him...


Beware the enemy within | Daily Telegraph Miranda Devine Blog (http://blogs.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/mirandadevine/index.php/dailytelegraph/comments/beware_the_enemy_within/)

[Sroodplus]

I seem to have struck a problem that I have not read about here. One month ago my vehicle, with ASIC stored therein, was stolen, the ASIC not recovered. It is a requirement of CASA and the Aviation Transport Act that I submit a Statutory Declaration, with all the details, within seven days. This was duly forwarded.

What I cannot find is any process to apply for a replacement. CASA has the power to issue a temporary replacement, but I can't find any avenue to request same.

I can't be the first to have a lost or stolen ASIC, anyone know of the procedure to get a replacement?

[YPJT]

Call CASA on 131757 ask for the office that processes ASICs I believe it is the Crew Licencing and Records Centre (CLARC).
As you already have the stat dec, all you should have to do is send that off with whatever form they have for a replacement card. They will be able to tell you on the phone what the drill is.

Count yourself lucky if you walk away with change from $60.00

[MartinCh]

I think the point is that the secondary/tertiary documents generally include something with an address (e.g. utility bill). Addresses, current and past, are part of your "identification" and background check process. So having proof of your address in Australia, as provided by utility bills or bank accounts in your name, serves a very real purpose that is not served by passports.

If you don't have a permanent address in Australia that could make you seem a bit "suspicious" - rightly or wrongly http://1.2.3.13/bmi/images.ibsrv.net/ibsrv/res/src:www.pprune.org/get/images/smilies/sowee.gif

Yeah, so I transfer my UK driving licence to Transport WA one and suddenly I'm more credible? I was told I can use photo pilot licence (there's English text about exercising privileges blah blah, but the basics are in Spanish only) Which has my Arg registered address. I have some 5 different 'residential' addresses depending on country/agency and government issued docs - most of them require LOCAL address from me. I still have to make myself homeless in Czech Rep as my aunt may have some hassle/has had extra cost, with my IDs registered there.

I do see the point, but the secondary or tertiary docs don't strictly need Australian address and I can apply for ASIC from abroad and then only have it finalised once I clear immigration/port of entry, also due to some obscure old rules. There's VEVO system on DIAC's website - they can see I have electronic visa issued. No, the old regs are old regs. What's permanent address anyway? Point in time.

Seeing the cost, I'll just apply for ASIC rather later, before flight tests.
By then, will have some Aussie address docs or Transport WA car driving licence/letters, as well as bank account.

[Bounceferret]

Before this thread gets locked away.
I received my ASIC. Took just under 7 weeks.


Apparently (varying unverified sources) the delay is due to a backlog with one of the 3 checking bodies AusCheck requests security information from.

This years 'last estimated' 25,000 asylum seekers come to mind.

[training wheels]

Apparently (varying unverified sources) the delay is due to a backlog with one of the 3 checking bodies AusCheck requests security information from.

Doesn't explain why some of us who applied after you got ours within a few days .. lol. I suspect it might have something to do with your name sounding similar to someone on the blacklist. lol. I have a friend whose name sounds similar to Osama 'has been' Laden and every time he applies for a foreign visa, it takes twice as long as for most other people.

[2dotsright]

Has anyone RECENTLY renewed their ASIC and encountered an unexpectedly long processing time? ie. > 5 weeks
I'm heading for a record breaking 6 weeks.
I sent via express post and even called 1 week later to follow up to ensure everything was correct and not short of any required documents.
No reason for the background check to be delayed on my end. Same address, no criminal convictions etc :E

It was initially sent off to Auscheck 4 days after I posted, some 5 weeks ago.
Daily phone calls return a 'it's still being processed by our checking partners'.

Expires tonight but need to fly on Thursday. Lucky that useless AVID still has 2 months on it.
Strange that I'm banned for going unescorted at the stirke of midnight yet you still have 7 days to notifiy CASA of any criminal activity.... should be a 7 days grace period for pending applications.

I'm in my 6th week now since applying. Have contacted useless Auscheck who say they outsource the work, weak excuse. I've had several ASICs before and don't have so much as a parking ticket on my clean record so will put this delay down to oxygen thieving , lazy, incompetent Public servants

[2dotsright]

I'm in my 6th week now since applying. Have contacted useless Auscheck who say they outsource the work, weak excuse. I've had several ASICs before and don't have so much as a parking ticket on my clean record so will put this delay down to oxygen thieving , lazy, incompetent Public servants

[Chronic Snoozer]

I'm in my 6th week now since applying. Have contacted useless Auscheck who say they outsource the work, weak excuse. I've had several ASICs before and don't have so much as a parking ticket on my clean record so will put this delay down to oxygen thieving , lazy, incompetent Public servants

As the old adage goes - "If it's not back in 6 weeks, just wait longer."

It was taking 7 weeks back in 2013. A decade on and just as efficient as ever.

[0ttoL]

18-Nov Completed the online application process including providing scans of docs, photo etc
18-Dec Face to face ID check completed
Early January, I called to ask where it was. Told that the Background check was still outstanding (Auscheck) and that they had seen a larger delay than normal
16-Jan Email received saying the ASIC had been approved and is in the mail
22-Jan ASIC received
Let's call it 2 months

[Clare Prop]

I'm an ASIC agent, your delay may be due to how long it takes for the issuing body to put it into the system, print the card, let you know it is ready etc, add more delays if there are third parties involved such as Australia Post. There is no point in contacting Auscheck as all they do is the actual background check part. Not a great idea to contact them and have a go at them.

We are turning them around in about a week with a very few exceptions, that's from initial in person document check to handing over the card, because apart from Auscheck we do everything in-house.

So if you are not happy, go to another issuing body but make the most of it because when the Govt abolish the independant issuing bodies and start doing it all themselves as a Single Issuing Body, then you will encounter a whole new level of "delay" and "incompetent public servant"

Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) Issuing Bodies (auscheck.gov.au) (https://www.auscheck.gov.au/security-card/aviation/asic-issuing-bodies)

[Lead Balloon]

Many of the chronic delays these days are caused by checks to see if applicants have any associations with ‘outlaw bikie gangs’ – i.e. illicit drug importers. ASICs were handed out like confetti by some issuing bodies when there was a huge increase in the number of newbie baggage handlers (I wonder why there were so many newbie baggage handlers…) and some of the recipients had ‘clean’ criminal records but ‘unsavoury’ friends. The potential security gaps (and the obvious conflict of interest of some issuing bodies) is what precipitated the push for all ASIC issuing to be done ‘in house’.

Now that Admiral General Comptroller Supremo Pezzulo has been punted as head of Home Affairs, and therefore the ongoing building of his own defence force and broader empire has been curtailed, it may be that the plan for all issuing to be done ‘in house’ will be abandoned. Let’s hope so, especially given that the ASIC system is an expensive façade that won’t stop any terrorist with half a brain or stop the tsunami of illegal drugs that continues to swamp Australia (due to a thing called ‘demand’).

[Clare Prop]

Many of the chronic delays these days are caused by checks to see if applicants have any associations with ‘outlaw bikie gangs’ – i.e. illicit drug importers. ASICs were handed out like confetti by some issuing bodies when there was a huge increase in the number of newbie baggage handlers (I wonder why there were so many newbie baggage handlers…) and some of the recipients had ‘clean’ criminal records but ‘unsavoury’ friends. The potential security gaps (and the obvious conflict of interest of some issuing bodies) is what precipitated the push for all ASIC issuing to be done ‘in house’.

Now that Admiral General Comptroller Supremo Pezzulo has been punted as head of Home Affairs, and therefore the ongoing building of his own defence force and broader empire has been curtailed, it may be that the plan for all issuing to be done ‘in house’ will be abandoned. Let’s hope so, especially given that the ASIC system is an expensive façade that won’t stop any terrorist with half a brain or stop the tsunami of illegal drugs that continues to swamp Australia (due to a thing called ‘demand’).


The issuing body verifies the documents. Staff are required to undertake training in verifying that documents are genuine and be aware of other clues that could arouse suspicion.

The document details (numbers, not the actual documents) are put into the Auscheck system.

Once the application is cleared by Auscheck the issuing body prints and delivers the card to the applicant.

Not sure where you get the idea that an issuing body does the background checks or has any say over who is approved. That is simply not true.

[Chronic Snoozer]

The issuing body verifies the documents. Staff are required to undertake training in verifying that documents are genuine and be aware of other clues that could arouse suspicion.

The document details (numbers, not the actual documents) are put into the Auscheck system.

Once the application is cleared by Auscheck the issuing body prints and delivers the card to the applicant.

Not sure where you get the idea that an issuing body does the background checks or has any say over who is approved. That is simply not true.

So why do some renewals take more than 8 weeks?

[Lead Balloon]

The issuing body verifies the documents. Staff are required to undertake training in verifying that documents are genuine and be aware of other clues that could arouse suspicion.

The document details (numbers, not the actual documents) are put into the Auscheck system. ...The issuing body is supposed to verify the documents.

Being trained to do something does not mean the something gets done properly.

Putting document details into a system is not a guarantee that the documents are about the person who presented them to the issuing body.

But that said, what's your explanation for the move to bring the whole process 'in house', Clare? Maybe it is just plain ol' empire building.

[Clare Prop]

So why do some renewals take more than 8 weeks?
It depends how many third parties it has to go through partly.

[Clare Prop]

The issuing body is supposed to verify the documents.

Being trained to do something does not mean the something gets done properly.

Putting document details into a system is not a guarantee that the documents are about the person who presented them to the issuing body.

But that said, what's your explanation for the move to bring the whole process 'in house', Clare? Maybe it is just plain ol' empire building.
That's a pretty serious allegation you are making. I hope you have some good evidence to back it up.

[Lead Balloon]

What “allegation” am I making about whom? I merely made statements of plain fact. And you didn’t answer my question.

[Clare Prop]

You are implying that issuing bodies and agents are committing fraud. My role is to ensure that all documents are genuine before they go into the Auscheck system and to try and make it all as uncomplicated as possible. That's all.

I have no idea why the Morrison government decided to go to a single issuing body, I'm not privy to that information. You can read about it here, there's an email address at the bottom that you can contact for more information. Changes to the ASIC & MSIC schemes (auscheck.gov.au) (https://www.auscheck.gov.au/security-card/aviation/changes-to-the-asic-scheme)

[Lead Balloon]

I’m not “implying” anything. What I asserted, outright, does not apply to all issuing bodies and all agents.

My understanding is that your commercial success does not depend on a constantly churning casual workforce that has to be ASIC ‘cleared’ and card-wearing before they’re of any use to you. My understanding is that you are not associated with any organisation that imports and distributes illegal drugs. If my understandings are correct, you can rest assured that I’m not “implying” or “alleging” or otherwise casting any aspersions about you.

[Chronic Snoozer]

It depends how many third parties it has to go through partly.

If you've held an ASIC for 10 years and are doing your 5th renewal, why does the length of processing time depend on how many people handle the application? I can get a passport quicker.

[MalcolmReynolds]

ASIC renewals for long standing holders should be easy and quick. Same day and half the price. I wasn't a terrorist last time and I'm still not!

[Lead Balloon]

The process is now not just about trying to find out whether you've changed careers to terrorist. It's also about trying to find out things like whether you have any associations with people and organisations in the business of importing and distributing illegal drugs.

[MalcolmReynolds]

I wish. Then I would be rich enough to cease this flying malarky! 🤣

[Lead Balloon]

And that's precisely one of the Dept of Home Affairs' concerns. The prospect of getting rich, quick, sometimes motivates people to do things they shouldn't do, whether they're pilots, baggage handlers, ASIC issuing body personnel or whomever.

[Bend alot]

Why do we even need an ASIC?

I have been asked once for mine (at an airport that did not require one!) since they came out.
I am sure that any person that wanted 1 for non genuine use could get a pretty good 1 for $10 some place.
Other countries do not need them.

[PiperCameron]

Why do we even need an ASIC?

At small uncontrolled airports, you don't - and you don't need one to fly a plane either. ...but at larger airports it's for Security. Airport Security.

You can't just allow any Joe Public wander around a busy tarmac unsupervised (props and turbines are expensive to fix after someone walks into one) so the implication is that someone who holds an ASIC has at least some amount of knowledge to know where they can and can't go - for their own safety and the safety of other people's aircraft.

I have been asked once for mine (at an airport that did not require one!) since they came out.
I am sure that any person that wanted 1 for non genuine use could get a pretty good 1 for $10 some place.
Other countries do not need them.

Sure.. and I wonder how many ground incidents they have compared to Oz? I get airport security asking to see mine daily (granted, that's every time I try to go airside) and for that reason I doubt you could get a counterfeit one programmed to let you go anywhere you please at any major airport in this country.

[Clinton McKenzie]

In the years in which the ASIC requirements have been in force, I can count on the fingers of one finger the number of times I've been asked for my ASIC on arrival at Canberra. And I've arrived in Canberra many, many times.

There's a very easy way to get into a security controlled aerodrome without an ASIC: Fly there.

ATC doesn't know whether the pilot of an aircraft inbound to e.g. Canberra holds a current ASIC. ATC doesn't know whether the pilot of an aircraft inbound to e.g. Canberra holds a pilot licence. ATC doesn't know who or what is on board an aircraft inbound to e.g. Canberra. And someone with malignant intent isn't about to land at e.g. Canberra then twiddle their thumbs waiting for security to turn up and ask to see an ASIC.

The front door is wide open and even includes a welcome in the form of an inbound clearance.

[Chronic Snoozer]

The process is now not just about trying to find out whether you've changed careers to terrorist. It's also about trying to find out things like whether you have any associations with people and organisations in the business of importing and distributing illegal drugs.Since its inception, the scheme has been subject to a number of changes. While initially applicants were only subject to criminal record checks, following the September 11 terrorist attacks, the scheme was expanded to cover a greater number of airports and airport staff. It was also strengthened through the introduction of tighter criminal history checks and an Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) security assessment.
https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Rural_and_Regional_Affairs_and_Transport/AviationSecurity45/~/media/Committees/rrat_ctte/AviationSecurity45/c05.pdf

There is nothing like a bit of mission creep. A bit better security required and we are now heading down the 'Minority Report' road. Originally created under Department of Transport and Regional Services, the ASIC was then handled by:

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government which existed between December 2007 and September 2010,
The Department of Infrastructure and Transport formed in September 2010,
The Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development that existed between September 2013 and December 2017, and
The Department of Home Affairs which was officially established on 20 December 2017, bringing policy responsibilities and agencies from the Attorney-General's Department (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attorney-General%27s_Department_(Australia)), Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_Infrastructure_and_Regional_Development)

In the mean time, Joe, our average pilot, has lived in just two places and worked at the same airline for 20 years doing the same thing, getting his ASIC renewed every two years. Now tell me again why it takes 10 weeks and $250?

[PiperCameron]

Now tell me again why it takes 10 weeks and $250?

Because the AI reading your faded and coffee-stained Birth Certificate (you did include a copy, didn't you?!?) couldn't quite match up your middle initial with the typo on your application form and bounced it back to an underpaid, overworked "Administrative Assistant" in the bowels of a Canberra building somewhere... and you were unlucky enough that at the precise moment your application landed on their desk they got up for a toilet break and never came back. FWIW, I got mine in 3 weeks. :p

The question I'd be asking when you do finally receive it is what the expiry date is, 'cause I'll bet it ain't 24 months from your application date!

[Clare Prop]

Because the AI reading your faded and coffee-stained Birth Certificate (you did include a copy, didn't you?!?) couldn't quite match up your middle initial with the typo on your application form and bounced it back to an underpaid, overworked "Administrative Assistant" in the bowels of a Canberra building somewhere... and you were unlucky enough that at the precise moment your application landed on their desk they got up for a toilet break and never came back. FWIW, I got mine in 3 weeks. :p

The question I'd be asking when you do finally receive it is what the expiry date is, 'cause I'll bet it ain't 24 months from your application date!

Briefly to answer some of the points raised in the last few posts:

If there is a difference in the names on the documents and the application it won't get as far as the Auscheck system. That's one of the things checked for at the interview. Any discrepancies in name require a formal change of name certificate, yes even for one letter.
.
The expiry is the end of the month two years after you get the clearance from Auscheck. eg if the clearance comes through on 5 Jan 2024, it will be valid until 31.1.26 and will say JAN 26

ASICS are needed at Security Controlled airports at the times they state in their Transport Security Program and an aerodrome employee can ask to see it.

ASICS are required by pilots to exercise the privileges of their licence under this regulation AVIATION TRANSPORT SECURITY REGULATIONS 2005 - REG 6.55 Exercise of privileges of flight crew licences etc (austlii.edu.au) (https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_reg/atsr2005457/s6.55.html)

ATSR 6.55 is nothing to do with CASA and a CASA officer doesn't have the authority to ask to see your ASIC. The only time they want to see it is at licence application.

The reason having third parties in the process can make it take longer is if for example the issuing body requires that you go to Australia Post to have the documents checked, or another third party to do the printing.

Alleging that the issuing bodies are entering fraudulent information into Auscheck is a serious one and something that would get picked up striaght away anyway.

If you are unhappy about having an ASIC then rather than abusing the issuing bodies and their agents go and see your Federal MP. Being belligerent at the ID check raises a lot of red flags so things like swearing and being aggressive or accusing the agent of fraudulent activity without any evidence are not going to help your application.

Other countries often have a separate card for each aerodrome which is a lot more onerous.

There are lots of people who have ASICs that know nothing about aeroplanes, people who do runway works, mow the grass etc

[PiperCameron]

The expiry is the end of the month two years after you get the clearance from Auscheck. eg if the clearance comes through on 5 Jan 2024, it will be valid until 31.1.26 and will say JAN 26

Thanks, CP - I did not know that. It would seem that the random Auscheck processing time is why my ASIC seems to expire a month early every year.

There are lots of people who have ASICs that know nothing about aeroplanes, people who do runway works, mow the grass etc

Very true.. but you can be sure they are not acting alone and will have had at least some training on where not to go and what not to do as part of the job induction processes by their hiring company. It's part of the ASIC Sponsor's responsibility under the Act.

Many of the larger airports (I won't say all, because I am only familiar with procedures at MEL, SYD, BNE and PER) have site-specific inductions workers doing runway works, mowing the grass etc have to sit through as part of getting an ASIC through them as the Issuer - not that anyone checks that afterwards, but they might... you just never know.

[Bend alot]

At small uncontrolled airports, you don't - and you don't need one to fly a plane either. ...but at larger airports it's for Security. Airport Security.

You can't just allow any Joe Public wander around a busy tarmac unsupervised (props and turbines are expensive to fix after someone walks into one) so the implication is that someone who holds an ASIC has at least some amount of knowledge to know where they can and can't go - for their own safety and the safety of other people's aircraft.



Sure.. and I wonder how many ground incidents they have compared to Oz? I get airport security asking to see mine daily (granted, that's every time I try to go airside) and for that reason I doubt you could get a counterfeit one programmed to let you go anywhere you please at any major airport in this country.
As a valid ASIC & current holder - I am aware of airports that require them ( did say when asked it was at a port 1 was not required!!!!!!!!)
Security at airports before ASIC (9/11) worked fine - feel free to link the human FOD you refer to in your reply.
I have worked at a place even the janitor needed an ASIC - they did not provide him of ANY aircraft precautions during his application or approval - again please provide why an ASIC = safety or aircraft/airport knowledge.

If you get asked near daily for your ASIC, you must have that face - THE VAST most of us do not ever get asked to produce it.

Many places use just a airport access card to get airside, costs minimal requires the company to be responsible and issued immediate for a temp or about a week - even the Airforce 1 use these airports & not an ASIC in site.

[PiperCameron]

Many places use just a airport access card to get airside, costs minimal requires the company to be responsible and issued immediate for a temp or about a week - even the Airforce 1 use these airports & not an ASIC in site.

Yeah, that's probably the biggest part of the joke. On a visit RAAF Williamtown a few years back, I discovered their security folks did not recognise an ASIC as valid ID: "Can I see your driver's license sir??" It's the Newcastle tarmac, FFS!

Hey, after I've gone to all this trouble begging and pleading to get one, I'd like to think that if Airport Security found some pleb wandering around airside without a valid ASIC, they'd have some explaining to do (and maybe that fine they speak of on the airside fence). Bah humbug!

[Bend alot]

Yes you NAILED IT the ASIC is a JOKE.

An expensive bureaucratic one, that I expect has NEVER found an "offender" & just wastes time and effort.

Time it became like the CASA DAMP guys an quietly vanished - and no safety was lost!

Just another failed experiment (sadly a gold mine for some kick back persons in government)

[Clare Prop]

Thanks, CP - I did not know that. It would seem that the random Auscheck processing time is why my ASIC seems to expire a month early every year.
It's part of the ASIC Sponsor's responsibility under the Act.



Your ASIC is getting earlier each time because you are putting in the application more than a month before it expires.
I'm not familiar with the word "sponsor" being in the act so a link would be helpful.

[Clare Prop]

Also even freight forwarders who are ever alone in the workplace have to have a white ASIC. They don't have to be anywhere near the airport or have some kind of induction to airside.

[compressor stall]

Your ASIC is getting earlier each time because you are putting in the application more than a month before it expires.
.
yes and you have to do that if you want any guarantee of it turning up on time.

Rort.

Shoukd be a renew 2 months before and no change to expiry date like your medical, IPC etc.

[Clare Prop]

Like I said, if you don't like it tell your local Federal MP, no point in shooting the messenger or posting here, I'm just trying to explain and put straight some of the misconceptions.

[Chronic Snoozer]

ASICS are required by pilots to exercise the privileges of their licence under this regulation AVIATION TRANSPORT SECURITY REGULATIONS 2005 - REG 6.55 Exercise of privileges of flight crew licences etc (austlii.edu.au) (https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_reg/atsr2005457/s6.55.html)
The reason having third parties in the process can make it take longer is if for example the issuing body requires that you go to Australia Post to have the documents checked, or another third party to do the printing.
Alleging that the issuing bodies are entering fraudulent information into Auscheck is a serious one and something that would get picked up striaght away anyway.
If you are unhappy about having an ASIC then rather than abusing the issuing bodies and their agents go and see your Federal MP. Being belligerent at the ID check raises a lot of red flags so things like swearing and being aggressive or accusing the agent of fraudulent activity without any evidence are not going to help your application.
Other countries often have a separate card for each aerodrome which is a lot more onerous.
There are lots of people who have ASICs that know nothing about aeroplanes, people who do runway works, mow the grass etc

From the link you posted -
(3) For paragraph (https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_reg/atsr2005457/s6.55.html#paragraph) (2)(a), a person's aviation security status check is current at a particular time if:

(a) it was carried out no more than 5 years before that time; or

(b) he or she has requested that a new check be carried out; or

(c) within the previous 2 years, he or she underwent a background check (https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_reg/atsr2005457/s6.01.html#background_check) for the issue (https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_reg/atsr2005457/s6.54.html#issue) of an ASIC.
So your aviation security status is valid for 5 years, but we are subjected to background checks every two years and it appears to be at the same level as an initial issue of an ASIC. I'm not concerned with fraud, I'm concerned with red tape and the length of the process. Digging out a citizenship or birth certificate every two years to have it witnessed is red tape at its finest. This has become so onerous that AusCheck can't keep up and we see blow outs in processing time and the expiry date of ASICs marching backwards by a month every two years.

Don't get me wrong, an initial issue of an ASIC has to be thorough but why reinvent the wheel for renewals? How hard is it to figure out if you've had any criminal offences in the last two years? (which, by the way, the law states you must declare)

[josephfeatherweight]

Don't get me wrong, an initial issue of an ASIC has to be thorough but why reinvent the wheel for renewals?
Absolutely agree with this!
I just think it's hilarious that the very, very important ASIC, which requires you to jump through all these hoops to get (including showing a Birth Certificate) is then not accepted as the form of identification for a renewal. For a known candidate! :ugh:​​​​​​​

[Lead Balloon]

But the alleged 'known candidate' could be some kind of 'face off' terrorist who's 'stolen' the face of an ASIC holder. It's happened in the movies, so it's possible.

When it comes to aviation security, one cannot be too careful.

[Roy Nolland]

Absolutely agree with this!
I just think it's hilarious that the very, very important ASIC, which requires you to jump through all these hoops to get (including showing a Birth Certificate) is then not accepted as the form of identification for a renewal. For a known candidate! :ugh:

Actually an ASIC is a Category C ID document.. Still need your Cat A and B as well though. Not any more value than a medicare card for the purpose of the ID check.

[Roy Nolland]

From the link you posted -

Don't get me wrong, an initial issue of an ASIC has to be thorough but why reinvent the wheel for renewals? How hard is it to figure out if you've had any criminal offences in the last two years? (which, by the way, the law states you must declare)

No one would argue with that.
As Clare said earlier, make the most of it whilst the commercial issuing bodies are processing the applications. Believe it or not, they share a lot of the concerns raised here and strive hard to get the cards out as quickly as possible. I doubt that the Department will have the same level of customer service focus.

[josephfeatherweight]

Actually an ASIC is a Category C ID document.. Still need your Cat A and B as well though. Not any more value than a medicare card for the purpose of the ID check.
Well that's awesome.

[PiperCameron]

I'm not familiar with the word "sponsor" being in the act so a link would be helpful.

Apologies, CP - that was just me trying to find the appropriate word for it without spending hours looking it up.

Since the powers that be aren't just going to take someone's word for it that they need an ASIC, someone (an Australia-registered company) somewhere has to support your application. The requirements are even greater if (eg. as a Pilot) you need an AUS (Australia-wide) ASIC. That's who I was referring to. If you look on the back of your ASIC, you'll see who your "sponsor company" is. You don't get an ASIC without their backing and they are held directly responsible under the Act if you don't use it properly and/or return it when asked to.

But wait, it get's worse: If you look at the list of commercial issuing bodies posted up-thread, you'll see the vast majority are Airport Security at a local airport. These exist to, among other things, issue baggage handlers, ground staff, etc. with a local (non-AUS) ASIC or VIC. If not directly employed on-airport (eg. outside contractors), these folks need not only an Approval from their boss via the ASIC Online system, but supporting approval from the on-airport company they contract to. To get an AUS ASIC they also need a supporting letter from another airport or on airport operator in another state - that's up to three different Approvals just to get airside!!! Bureaucracy to the max...:(

As pilots we don't need to jump through that many hoops - yet. But we will - just wait.

[Clare Prop]

On the back of your ASIC is the Issuing Body and the address to return the card to on expiry. Not a "sponsor" which is a completely different thing and not applicable to ASICs at all. I think you are confusing this with working visas, where a sponsor takes responsibility if the visa holder breaches their visa conditions or commits a crime. I know this as I have been a sponsor for 420 visas. There is no regulatory requirement for anything to be printed on the back of the card.

Ground staff only get an ASIC for the airport they are working at, they don't need an AUS one. It is possible to have more than one ASIC if they do work at more than one airport. (The same background check applies)

All a pilot needs for their "operational need" for an AUS ASIC is to show their pilot licence. A student pilot needs a letter from their school to say they are currently undergoing training, these do get checked.

Be careful what you wish for, in some countries the pilots DO need to have a security card for each airport they go into. So having one for the whole country is better than that.

[PiperCameron]

On the back of your ASIC is the Issuing Body and the address to return the card to on expiry. Not a "sponsor" which is a completely different thing and not applicable to ASICs at all. I think you are confusing this with working visas, where a sponsor takes responsibility if the visa holder breaches their visa conditions or commits a crime. I know this as I have been a sponsor for 420 visas. There is no regulatory requirement for anything to be printed on the back of the card..

CP, perhaps there's no regulatory requirement for it, but the words "Original Sponsor", followed by the name of the company we work for, certainly appear on the back of all of ours underneath the name and address of the Issuing Body. I believe the on-airport Approvers are also referred to as "sponsors". I believe the same would be true of ASICs issued to pilots by eg. Qantas, since they're not an Issuing Body. YMMV.

The company name used to appear on the front of the ASIC, but apparently that confused too many poor, overworked, security people so they're all plain-jane now.


Ground staff only get an ASIC for the airport they are working at, they don't need an AUS one. It is possible to have more than one ASIC if they do work at more than one airport. (The same background check applies)

None of that is true. Many ground staff work at multiple airports Australia-wide and all (that I know of, including myself) can and are issued with AUS ASICs. As far as I am aware, it is no longer possible to obtain multiple local ones - if for no other reason that the cost and paperwork would be seriously prohibitive!

As for the rest, we do agree. :)

[Clare Prop]

QANTAS are an issuing body!

Anything written on the back of the card is nothing to do with regulatory requirements. This word "sponsor" is not enshrined in the Act.

Yes some ground staff would have AUS ASICs but not always. They would need to prove the operational need for multiple airports.

I'm not sure where you are getting your information from but as an ASIC agent it's my job to know this stuff. And contrary to what people think, the pittance I get from each card doesn't make up for the minority of people who haven't done any of the training but think they know everything and decide to take it out on the agent. Luckily I have the option to terminate the interview with a belligerent applicant.

I've tried on this thread to explain how the system works, to dispel some of the myths. I try to make the procedure as quick and efficient as possible. That's all.

[PiperCameron]

QANTAS are an issuing body!

My bad - I should have re-checked the list first and picked a better example: Rex then. :)

Thank you for all you have posted here, CP. All the information I have comes from personal experience (and that of people around me) using Melbourne Airport - not an Agent. Hopefully others here find their path easier.

[Roy Nolland]

As for whether you get an airport specific or AUS card comes down to the operational need. If your employer says you will be at more than one airport then there is usually no problem getting an AUS card. For pilots, the pilot licence is all that is needed.
As for multiple ASICs the only reason some people have them goes back to the days when the likes of Qantas had their name emblazoned at the bottom and didn't want their ground staff using them to for private flying activities. The Dept knew it happened, didn't like it, but couldn't do anything about it.

[Traffic_Is_Er_Was]

As far as I am aware, it is no longer possible to obtain multiple local ones - if for no other reason that the cost and paperwork would be seriously prohibitive!
If you work for two different companies, at two different airports, you'd need an ASIC specific to each. Neither of the individual companies are going to endorse that you require an AUS ASIC, as for each of them, you don't.

[Roy Nolland]

Well it appears that Auscheck have slowed their background check clearances to something like watching an ant crawl though treacle.
Lots of aircrew, ground crew, airport staff, screeners etc all waiting for their cards. Some back as far as January.

A little bird told me that the initial delays were caused by the Women's World Cup and the need to do a securtiy check on dear old Dolly showing people to their seats and the latest delays being blamed on the ASEAN summit in Melbourne earlier this month.

Remember this is the outfit that is going to take over 100% of all ASIC issuing from 01 July 2025. I know I will be renewing my card before that date with one of the exisitng issuijng bodies.

[josephfeatherweight]

Experiencing the same - started the renewal VERY early - current ASIC expires at the end of April. Given that nobody looks at it, I don't feel it will be my problem if the thing expires and I have to keep working...

[BronteExperimental]

Just got my “renewal” this week.
10weeks from start to finish. Have used my expired one while I wait. Nobody cared or noticed.
A few emails along the way from the issuing body pointing the finger at someone else for the delay.
At the same time started a new job that also required a criminal record check as well. No holdups there.
Woftam all round…

[lucille]

What is the point of the ASIC at any non point of entry airports?

Why does anyone need an ASIC at Birdsville, Charleville or Cunamulla?

[Lead Balloon]

Terrorists might strike a blow to the heart of western democracy, via Birdsville, Charleville or Cunamulla. Obviously.

[rodney rude]

And why do people who work in the non airside areas - succh as the cafes and shops, need an ASIC? They go through security like the travellers and tyhen they are just another body in the terminal.

[Roy Nolland]

And why do people who work in the non airside areas - succh as the cafes and shops, need an ASIC? They go through security like the travellers and tyhen they are just another body in the terminal.

ATSR 3.03 Requirement to display ASICs in secure areas
(1) Subject to subregulations (4), (4A) and (5), regulations 3.05 to 3.09 and subregulations 3.18(2) and 3.26(2):
(a) a person in the airside security zone of a security controlled airport must properly display a valid red ASIC; and
(b) a person in a secure area (other than the airside security zone) of such an airport must properly display either a valid red ASIC or a valid grey ASIC.
Penalty: 5 penalty units.
Note 1: The requirement in subregulation (1) applies to a person who is accessing parts of the sterile area not generally accessible to passengers or the public

Similar requirement for airline staff in the check in area

[PiperCameron]

And why do people who work in the non airside areas - succh as the cafes and shops, need an ASIC? They go through security like the travellers and tyhen they are just another body in the terminal.

That's easy. The main reasons are as follows:
(a) to make them feel more valued than the obnoxious self-loading freight they're serving, and
(b) to qualify for a Staff Discount at the other shops when they break for lunch.

[Clare Prop]

The clearances are taking a lot longer than usual at the moment. This isn’t the fault of the issuing bodies so please be patient, there is no point hassling us as there is nothing we can do about it.

[MalcolmReynolds]

The clearances are taking a lot longer than usual at the moment. This isn’t the fault of the issuing bodies so please be patient, there is no point hassling us as there is nothing we can do about it.

Someone needs to fire a rocket up the AFP or whomever is supposed to do these checks. Should be an automatic renew taking only a few days for current ASIC holders. 🤬

[Clare Prop]

Every Australian has a federal PM so contact them with your concerns, soon there will be no issuing bodies but while we are still trying to get your ASICs processed in a timely manner then please understand that the issuing bodies are not the ones who determine how long it will take . Hassling us when we have clearly told applicants not to do so and to wait until they are contacted isn’t going to make it happen any quicker. It just wastes everyone’s time.

[MalcolmReynolds]

Every Australian has a federal PM so contact them with your concerns, soon there will be no issuing bodies but while we are still trying to get your ASICs processed in a timely manner then please understand that the issuing bodies are not the ones who determine how long it will take . Hassling us when we have clearly told applicants not to do so and to wait until they are contacted isn’t going to make it happen any quicker. It just wastes everyone’s time.
Fark that waste of time. I’ll be operating without one then. 🤬

[Capt Fathom]

Maybe if everyone said ‘stuff it’ and just didn’t bother renewing. What are they going to do? Arrest everyone! That will keep them busy.
A mate of mine had a picture of some terrorist on his ASIC. No one ever noticed. The whole thing is a waste of time and money.

[red_dirt]

Every Australian has a federal PM so contact them with your concerns, soon there will be no issuing bodies but while we are still trying to get your ASICs processed in a timely manner then please understand that the issuing bodies are not the ones who determine how long it will take . Hassling us when we have clearly told applicants not to do so and to wait until they are contacted isn’t going to make it happen any quicker. It just wastes everyone’s time.

or maybe the service providers can raise it with their department contacts

[Clare Prop]

All you get back is "In progress with checking partners". That's why it's a waste of time trying to put pressure on the issuing bodies or complaining about it here.
Your local federal member is the one who gets paid to listen to people complaining about the government so take it up with them. Otherwise it's just a case of

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/600x600/old_fd35a84ec722819a9e752e34348c5c85decb23cd.jpg

[MalcolmReynolds]

All you get back is "In progress with checking partners". That's why it's a waste of time trying to put pressure on the issuing bodies or complaining about it here.
Your local federal member is the one who gets paid to listen to people complaining about the government so take it up with them. Otherwise it's just a case of

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/600x600/old_fd35a84ec722819a9e752e34348c5c85decb23cd.jpg
Complaining to the local member is the definition of the above. 🤬

[extralite]

Just lodged my renewal through Veritas at auspost again.The Auspost lady warned me they have changed their system and it would take her a while to work through it. A line out the door of the post office, while she struggled to get the same documents as i used last time (original birth certificate etc) to load. She was clenching her fists in frustration. It probably took her 20-25 minutes. How is it we have front line workers as persistent and patient as she was in Australia, but a faceless bureaucracy somewhere making everyone who has an actual productive job to do more difficult. Anyway....lets see how long it takes that bureaucracy to verify the same documents as they did 2 years ago :)

[Roy Nolland]

Just lodged my renewal through Veritas at auspost again.The Auspost lady warned me they have changed their system and it would take her a while to work through it. A line out the door of the post office, while she struggled to get the same documents as i used last time (original birth certificate etc) to load. She was clenching her fists in frustration. It probably took her 20-25 minutes. How is it we have front line workers as persistent and patient as she was in Australia, but a faceless bureaucracy somewhere making everyone who has an actual productive job to do more difficult. Anyway....lets see how long it takes that bureaucracy to verify the same documents as they did 2 years ago :)
Mate have you looked at other options rather than the expensive Auspost ID verification route? Unfortunately being on the GC I guess you dont have a lot of choice. Even when you get the application submitted, our mates in Canberra are not exactly going to any great lengths to clear the backlog that exists at the moment.