Previous Projects - Connley Walker Security Consulting Services: Melbourne Market Authority

Audit of Access Control Privileges

Our initial task involved scoping an audit of all access control privileges for the Melbourne Market Authority site. This audit aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of current security controls and identify areas for improvement. The key elements of this audit included:

• Current Physical Security: We assessed the existing physical security measures, such as barriers, gates, and other physical access control points.
• Current Electronic Access Control: Our team reviewed the electronic access control systems in place, including card readers, biometric scanners, and other electronic security devices.
• Access Management Procedures: We examined the procedures for managing access permissions, including the issuance, monitoring, and revocation of access rights.
• Current Access Permissions: With up to 3,000 access permissions to consider, we evaluated the overall management and security of these permissions without conducting an individual review of each card.

Based on our findings, we provided recommendations designed to address identified threats, improve compliance, enhance effectiveness, and reduce costs. Where appropriate, these recommendations were presented as a prioritised and costed action plan to assist BGIS in making informed decisions.

Review of Security Contracts

Connley Walker also conducted a comprehensive review of existing security contracts to identify opportunities for cost savings and service level improvements. The security services reviewed included:

• Static Guards: Evaluation of the deployment, effectiveness, and cost of static guard services.
• Mobile Patrols: Assessment of the frequency, routes, and efficiency of mobile patrol services.
• Alarm Response Guards: Review of the response times, effectiveness, and cost-efficiency of alarm response services.
• Alarm Monitoring: Examination of the current alarm monitoring systems and their integration with other security measures.
• Electronic Security Maintenance: Evaluation of the maintenance contracts for electronic security systems, including CCTV, access control, and alarm systems.
• Key and Lock Maintenance: Review of the key and lock maintenance procedures and their effectiveness in ensuring security.

Our review aimed to identify any fundamental gaps in the current security approach, potential areas of over or under-provision of services, and opportunities for cost savings. We provided detailed recommendations to BGIS to optimise their security contracts and improve overall service levels.

Development of a Security Operations Plan

A critical component of our engagement was the development of a comprehensive Security Operations Plan for the Melbourne Market Authority site. This plan was developed in close consultation with BGIS and relevant stakeholders to ensure it met the specific needs and objectives of the site. The development process included the creation of a draft report for BGIS approval, followed by the refinement and finalisation of the plan.

The Security Operations Plan encompassed the following elements:

• Authority and Responsibility: Clear delineation of authority and responsibility for security operations across the site.
• Security Objectives and Goals: Definition of specific security objectives and goals to guide all security activities and initiatives.
• Compliance and Legal Considerations: Inclusion of relevant legal and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance with local and national standards.
• Threat Assessment: Comprehensive assessment of potential security threats and vulnerabilities facing the site.
• Security Measures and Procedures: Detailed description of security measures and procedures to mitigate identified threats.
• Incident Response Plans: Development of incident response plans to ensure timely and effective handling of security incidents.
• Incident Reporting and Management: Procedures for reporting and managing security incidents to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
• Training and Awareness: Outline of training programs and awareness initiatives to ensure all personnel are equipped to contribute to site security.
• Access Control: Policies and procedures for managing access control to secure areas.
• Communication Plan: Development of a communication plan to ensure effective coordination among security personnel and stakeholders.
• Equipment and Technology: Specification of security equipment and technology requirements to support security operations.
• Security Personnel Conduct: Standards of conduct for security personnel to ensure professionalism and integrity.

Conclusion

Connley Walker’s engagement with BGIS for the Melbourne Market Authority site was marked by a thorough and strategic approach to enhancing security measures. Our comprehensive audit of access control privileges, review of security contracts, and development of a Security Operations Plan provided BGIS with actionable insights and practical recommendations. By implementing our recommendations, BGIS can significantly improve the security of the Melbourne Market Authority site, optimise security-related expenditures, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Our collaboration has laid the foundation for a more secure and resilient operational environment at the Melbourne Market Authority.