Watchdogs on Watch: Things to Know About Home Security Monitoring Services in Australia

When it comes to keeping your home safe, one of the top choices for Aussies is home security monitoring, which provides round-the-clock surveillance of your property. But what exactly does this service offer, and what should you know before jumping on board? Let’s break down the must-know details, focusing on the Australian context, so you can make the smartest decision to protect your home and loved ones. 

What is a Home Security Monitoring Service?

Home security monitoring services in Australia involve technology and human oversight working together to keep your home safe. When you have a security system installed, it is often linked to a monitoring centre, staffed by security professionals who monitor your home in real time. This might include motion detectors, door and window sensors, cameras, or environmental sensors like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

When these systems detect any unusual activity, an alert is sent to the monitoring centre. Trained personnel will assess the situation and, if necessary, contact you, or in more serious cases, notify emergency services. Many companies offer these services as part of a subscription-based plan. It’s like having an extra set of eyes on your property, even when you’re away at work, on holiday, or simply asleep.

The Benefits of Home Security Monitoring in Australia

The biggest advantage of home security monitoring is peace of mind. Knowing that someone is keeping an eye on your property 24/7 can really ease the stress of worrying about break-ins, property damage, or other emergencies.

In fact, household break-ins remain one of the most frequently reported crimes in Australia, with over 200,000 incidents happening annually, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021). This makes a solid security system an important tool for keeping your home safe. But security monitoring services go beyond just preventing burglaries. They also help detect environmental threats like smoke, fire, or carbon monoxide leaks. The early detection these systems offer could make all the difference between a scare and a serious, life-threatening situation.

Research has shown that homes equipped with monitored security systems are less likely to be targeted by criminals. A study conducted by the Australian Institute of Criminology found that homes with visible security systems, including cameras and alarms, were significantly less likely to experience break-ins (Morgan et al., 2020). Simply put, a monitored system acts as a deterrent, sending a clear message to would-be burglars that your property is not an easy target.

Trusting the Company Monitoring Your Home

One of the most critical aspects of choosing a home security monitoring service is trust. You’re entrusting a company with some of your most sensitive information. You need to be certain that the company monitoring your home is reliable and ethical. This means doing your homework before selecting a provider. The company's reputation is crucial, as you're giving them a significant level of access to your private life. When choosing a monitoring service, consider these key factors:

Data Security: Ensure that the company uses strong data encryption and has robust cybersecurity measures in place. In the digital age, the last thing you want is for your personal information or security footage to be compromised.

Privacy Policies: Be sure to review the company’s privacy policy. You should know how your data is stored, whether it’s shared with third parties, and under what circumstances it can be accessed by others. Some Australian companies may store data overseas, which can complicate privacy issues, so it’s important to ask questions about where your information will be held.

Monitoring Centre Standards: Some Australian monitoring centres are independently certified, such as by the Australian Security Industry Association Limited (ASIAL). ASIAL certification ensures that the centre follows best practices for security and customer care. Also, check whether the monitoring centre is located in Australia or overseas, as local centres often provide faster response times and are more familiar with Australian emergency services.

Types of Home Security Monitoring

There are various options available for home security monitoring in Australia, and the right one for you depends on your needs and budget.

Professional Monitoring: This is the most comprehensive option, where a dedicated team monitors your home 24/7. If an alarm goes off, they will assess the situation and contact the appropriate emergency services. Most Australian security companies offer professional monitoring as a monthly subscription service, with prices varying depending on the level of coverage.

Self-Monitoring: With advancements in technology, some homeowners opt to monitor their security systems themselves. This typically involves receiving notifications via a mobile app and deciding whether to take action. While this can save money on monthly fees, it also places the responsibility squarely on your shoulders to respond to alerts, which may not always be practical or safe.

Hybrid Monitoring: A middle-ground solution is hybrid monitoring, which offers flexibility. For example, you might self-monitor during the day but switch to professional monitoring at night or while on holiday. Some services offer this option, allowing you to only pay for professional monitoring when you feel it’s necessary.

Costs Involved in Home Security Monitoring

When looking into security monitoring, it’s important to consider the costs involved. The price of a home security monitoring service can vary significantly based on the equipment and level of service you choose.

Basic Packages: Basic professional monitoring packages in Australia typically range from $30 to $80 per month. These usually include alarms for burglary, fire, and other basic threats.

Advanced Monitoring: For more comprehensive coverage, including CCTV monitoring, smart home integration, and remote access, monthly costs can exceed $100. This level of service is ideal for homeowners who want additional features like real-time video feeds or the ability to control the system remotely.

DIY and Self-Monitoring: If you prefer a do-it-yourself approach, self-monitored systems are available. These systems can cost a few hundred dollars upfront for the equipment, with optional monthly fees for cloud storage or enhanced features. While this can save you money on ongoing fees, you’ll need to be confident in your ability to handle security alerts on your own.

Ethical Considerations in Security Monitoring

As home security monitoring becomes more common in Australia, it’s essential to consider the ethical implications. While the primary goal is to protect your home, having cameras and monitoring systems also means that your privacy—and that of your family and visitors—is being watched over.

It’s important to ensure that your data and privacy are being handled with care. Choose a company that provides clear guidelines on how they manage, store, and protect your security footage. You should always be able to control who has access to your data and for what purpose.

In addition, Australia has privacy laws in place, such as the Surveillance Devices Act (2004), which governs the use of surveillance technology. Make sure your security system complies with these regulations, especially if you’re installing cameras that might capture footage of public spaces or neighbouring properties.

Final Thoughts

Home security monitoring services are a great way to protect your property and provide peace of mind. Whether you’re concerned about intruders, environmental hazards, or simply want to keep an eye on your home when you’re not around, these systems can make a significant difference. However, it’s essential to choose a service provider you can trust—one that prioritises your privacy and data security as much as they focus on safeguarding your home.

By doing your homework, ensuring the company complies with Australian standards, and selecting the right type of monitoring for your needs, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is in safe hands.

References
Morgan, A., Boxall, H., & Dowling, C. (2020). Deterring property crime: The role of visible security measures in reducing burglary risks. Australian Institute of Criminology Research Report, 130.
Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021). Crime Victimisation, Australia. ABS Data Collection, cat. no. 4530.
Lee, M. Y., Ahlert, L. A., & Bichler, G. (2013). Evaluating the deterrent effect of home security systems on residential burglaries: Evidence from interviews with incarcerated offenders. Journal of Criminology, 45(2), 295-312.
Harris, J. (2019). Home security: Privacy and ethics in the surveillance age. Security Studies Review, 27(3), 467-490.