The world of private investigations is far more diverse than most people realise. In Australia, licensed private investigators operate across a range of sectors—from surveillance to missing persons, online research to corporate intelligence. While television might focus on dramatic stakeouts, the real work of a private investigator is often more methodical, data-driven, and legally precise.
At AIMPAC, we see the industry as comprising two broad but overlapping areas: the private investigations side, and the private intelligence side.
On the traditional investigations side, you’ll find specialists in factual investigations—conducting interviews, taking statements, and preparing reports for insurers, government bodies, or law firms. One of the most common areas is WorkCover investigations, where licensed investigators are engaged to examine claims involving workplace injuries. This type of work often requires a combination of both factual and surveillance methods—gathering video evidence in the field while also conducting detailed interviews with employers, witnesses, and the claimant to confirm the accuracy of the claim.
Then there’s the expanding realm of private intelligence. These are investigators who work behind a screen more than in the field—conducting in-depth online investigations, combing through public records, social media, databases, and digital traces to build a picture of a person, company, or event. These investigators might be tasked with finding a missing person, tracking down a hidden asset, or identifying suspicious connections in a financial or criminal matter.
This work requires more than technical skill—it requires discretion, analytical thinking, and a strong understanding of privacy laws and regulations. A modern private investigator often acts more like an intelligence analyst than a field operator, collating and cross-referencing large volumes of data to extract insights.
Some investigators blend both worlds, moving between online research and on-the-ground work as needed. Others specialise deeply in a niche area like criminal defence investigations, skip tracing, corporate fraud, or counter-surveillance.
No matter the specialty, private investigators must be licensed, professional, and compliant with state or territory laws. In many cases, continuing professional development is required to maintain a license and ensure investigators remain up to date with industry shifts.
AIMPAC exists to support all sides of this profession—those who are in the field gathering surveillance footage, and those working behind the scenes with data and intelligence. We advocate for fair industry standards, provide compliance tools and training, and connect professionals across the investigative spectrum.
Whether you’re considering hiring an investigator or becoming one, the private investigations industry in Australia offers diverse pathways and valuable services that help keep businesses, communities, and individuals informed, protected, and empowered.