Kangan Institute has received a Highly Commended Award in the Integrated Security Solution category at the Australian Security Industry Awards for Excellence ceremony held yesterday. The award recognised Kangan Institute's recent implementation of a streamlined security system across its six campuses which improves overall crisis management and deters vandalism and other detrimental activities. Whilst accepting the award on behalf of Kangan Institute, Gene Coutinho, Security Manager, highlighted that security is an Institute priority and the use of leading-edge technology and detailed planning is an integral part of security management. "Over recent years, asset protection professionals have witnessed trends towards an increase in the occurrence of violence within educational institutions," he said. "During this period of time, we've effectively adapted our security model to counter this trend and we're proud that Kangan Institute's now armed with the capability to manage a significant crisis if it occurs." In creating the new security system, feedback from key internal and external stakeholders were sought to assess the needs of campus users, including addressing privacy issues. The new system includes integrated access and intrusion management capabilities to instantly identify all personnel entering/exiting from secured areas. It also makes use of a high-speed network interface to link up CCTV surveillance to centralised control centres, allowing for a more seamless and immediate response to incidents and emergencies. "To be recognised this evening by the Australian Security Industry is truly a privilege," said Gene. "We look forward to continuously expanding our efforts to meet future challenges."