Types of ASIC
There are three different types of ASICs: red, grey and white.
The type of ASIC you require will depend on your role and operational need. If you are unsure, talk to your employer or issuing body.
Red ASIC
A valid red ASIC must be properly displayed in the airside security zone or secure area of a security controlled airport.
Grey ASIC
A valid grey ASIC must be properly displayed in a secure area (other than the airside security zone) of a security controlled airport.
White ASIC
A person might be required to hold a valid white ASIC, if employed in a security-sensitive role that requires a valid background check.
You may need a white ASIC, if you are contracted or employed by the following entities:
Foreign officials or Australian citizens/residents employed by a foreign mission or consular post in Australia, may be eligible for a white ASIC if you require regular access to an aviation secure zone of a security controlled airport. A foreign official white ASIC must be properly displayed in a secure area, and foreign officials holding an ASIC must be supervised while in a secure area.
Visitor Identification Card
A visitor identification card (VIC) can be issued to a person, if the person needs to enter a secure area of a security controlled airport for a lawful purpose.
A VIC holder must display a VIC when in a secure area of a security controlled airport and must be supervised by a holder of a valid ASIC while in a secure area.
To be issued a VIC, you must give the VIC issuer a written statement of the reasons why you need to enter the secure area and the VIC issuer must verify your identity.
You will need to present to a VIC issuer with an original identification document that must:
- be government issued
- contain your photo and signature
- be current and valid.
Suitable documents include a driver licence, Australian or foreign passport and proof of age card.
A VIC cannot be issued to any person who:
- has been refused an ASIC
- is the holder of a suspended ASIC or
- is the holder of a cancelled ASIC
It is an offence for a VIC applicant not to disclose that they have been refused an ASIC, or had an ASIC suspended or cancelled.
A VIC may be issued by:
- an airport operator
- an aircraft operator that operates a regular public transport operation
- an authorised agent of the airport operator or Secretary-approved VIC issuer
The Department of Home Affairs can issue VICs to law enforcement, intelligence and government officers who are on duty. The duration of these VICs is for no longer than 24 hours.
The 28-day rule
A person can be issued a VIC if they are required to enter a secure area of a security controlled airport for a lawful purpose for a maximum period of 28 days within a 12-month period. This is known as the 28-day rule.
There is a separate 28-day limit for each airport. The number of days a VIC has been issued at one airport does not count towards the number of days a VIC has been issued at a different airport.
Temporary Aircrew Card
A Temporary Aircrew Card (TAC) can be issued by an aircraft operator if the person:
- holds a valid red or grey ASIC, however, the person does not physically have their ASIC on them; or
- applied for a red or grey ASIC
TACs can be issued as an alternative to a VIC for airline crew travelling with an aircraft across multiple airports.
TAC holders must be an employee or contractor of the aircraft operator and require access to more than one security controlled airport, travelling with a regular public transport aircraft.
TACs cannot be issued with a validity period more than 15 days.
For information on how to apply for a TAC, contact your aircraft operator.
