dublediff
13-07-2007, 11:15 AM
Hello, new to this forum so forgive me if this subject has been discussed before. I am relatively new to the industry but have a huge breadth of experience as a surveillance operative and team leader working for state authorities. I have been in the private sector as a licenced investigator and trainer for the last 12 months and have made a many contacts with other investigators so I believe I have a reasonable grip on this situation. My question is what is your hourly rate for surveillance investigations? This is quite topical at the moment considering the Victorian workcover Authority has just raised its rates in line with the CPI. (about 2.5%). Has this increase been passed on to the operatives or not? A close associate of mine has 20 years in the industry and tells me that when he started he was paid $20.00 an hour - not a bad rate 20 years ago. He now gets $29.00 an hour for VWA work - I believe that this is probably more than some of you guys are getting now. The point I wish to make is that whilst cost of living has moved hugely in the 20 year period our rates of pay have not! Why is this, what are your operating costs, how muchy equipment do you have to service, how many hours do you have to spend after work compiling reports, editing video etc, etc. The latest vehicle operating costs show a ford territory to cost 0.80c a kilometre total running costs, how much do you get perm kilometre from your employer? Don't mean to rattle the cage but I think it is time we stood up for our rights but I believe some experienced operators are working for $25.00 and hour or less. I know some rates are lower for trainees but come on guys, what's it worth to get out bed in the morning.........??? Cheers