Larry Circosta

   NESS Corporation

Larry has had a long and respected career in the Australian Security sector, working actively as a leader for many decades.

Founding the family security company with his brother 50 years ago, Ness Security commenced manufacturing security equipment, and is still active today providing a wide range of security products.

Larry has had a 35 year association with ASIAL, committing to countless hours working on various committees and the National Board, and contributing to the development of Australian standards.

He took on the role of ASIAL President for 9 years from 1992 to 2001, expanding its reach and forging important methods to advise government on security matters, and was a driver behind the establishment of Security Insider Magazine which is still relied on today. He was recognised with Life membership of ASIAL in 2009.

Larry is known for his love and support of local sport, particularly the Colo Cougars Soccer Club and has demonstrated amazing support to causes such as an orphanage in Indonesia. Volunteering in Bandah Aceh – he helped rebuild the orphanage, and later has returned since to provide sporting equipment to the less fortunate in the region.

Recently Larry has partnered to for a not-for-profit group called AWARE, which is seeking to support victims of domestic violence by providing technology and security support at no cost – so they survivors can find safety in their own homes.

The ASMF wish to recognise Larry Circosta, and have pleasure in awarding him the Australian Security Medal.

John Yates

   Scentre Group

John Yates came to Australia following a notable 30-year career in the UK Metropolitan Police.

At Scotland Yard he held senior roles overseeing murder investigations, ending corruption, developing counter-terrorism response and advising the UK Prime Minister and Home Secretary on policing matters.

John’s emergency response experience also saw him lead the UK’s response to the SE Asian Tsunami support, and on leaving the service worked providing advice to government in the Middle-East.

In Australia John has continued his focus on service and supporting the corporate security sector, community groups and even staff down on the front-lines of response. John has been an advocate for the use of emerging technologies to improve security response, information gathering and safety.

John’s has a desire to share his knowledge and experience beyond his role with Scentre, and sits on several advisory boards. These include 8 years as Non-Executive Director for NSW Policy Legacy, advising the board of Sydney Metro, 6 years  as an Advisor to the ANZ Counter-Terrorism Committee and Non-Executive director of Domestic Violence Charity “KYUP!”.

KYUP! have provided their violence prevent ion education workshops to over 10,000 young people in schools across Australian and NZ – from inner city to remote indigenous communities.

Apart from being a sought-after speaker at conferences and forums, John is the current Chair of the FASE (Forum of Australasian Security Executives – comprising of the senior security leaders of Australian’s largest companies, and uses his role with Scentre to support and influence the advancement of security professionalism at all levels across the country.

For his contribution and ongoing commitment to the Australian Security sector – the ASMF acknowledge John Yates, and award him the Australian Security Medal.