A master key system allows different keys to open different doors, while a single master key opens all of them. This is ideal for buildings with multiple rooms, tenants, or access levels — such as offices, apartment blocks, schools, and hospitals. A licensed locksmith designs a key hierarchy tailored to your building's access requirements.
Overview
Master key systems are essential for managing access in multi-room and multi-tenant buildings across Australia. The system works by configuring lock cylinders with additional shear lines, allowing both the individual key and the master key to operate the lock. Systems can be simple (one master key for all doors) or complex (grand master, master, sub-master, and individual levels). A well-designed master key system eliminates the need for large key bunches, streamlines access for management and maintenance staff, and maintains individual security for each room or tenant. Australian locksmiths design these systems using restricted keyways to prevent unauthorised key duplication, ensuring long-term security integrity.
When you need this service
- ✓Managing a commercial building with multiple offices and common areas
- ✓Strata or body corporate building needing tiered access for owners, managers, and contractors
- ✓Schools, hospitals, or government buildings with complex access hierarchies
- ✓Hotels or serviced apartments requiring room-level and floor-level access
- ✓Expanding an existing business and adding new lockable areas
- ✓Replacing a legacy master key system that has become compromised
How it works
- 1
Needs Analysis & Key Hierarchy Design
The locksmith works with you to map every door, identify who needs access to which areas, and design a key hierarchy chart showing master, sub-master, and individual key levels.
- 2
Keyway Selection & Restricted Profile
A restricted keyway is selected to prevent unauthorised key copying. Key authorisation cards are set up so that only designated people can request additional keys.
- 3
Cylinder Pinning & Installation
Each lock cylinder is pinned to the designed specification. New cylinders are installed where needed, and existing compatible cylinders are rekeyed into the master key system.
- 4
System Documentation & Handover
You receive complete documentation including the master key chart, key register, authorisation cards, and guidelines for managing the system. The locksmith explains how to add or remove keys as needs change.
How much does it cost?
Master key system costs in Australia vary widely based on the number of doors and complexity of the hierarchy. A basic system for a small office (5–10 doors) typically costs $200 to $600. Medium systems for commercial buildings (20–50 doors) range from $1,000 to $3,000. Large strata or institutional systems (100+ doors) can cost $5,000 to $15,000 or more. Per-cylinder costs are typically $60 to $120 including restricted key cutting. The restricted keyway setup usually carries a one-off fee of $100 to $200. Ongoing management costs include $15 to $40 per additional key cut. Getting the system designed correctly from the start is critical — retrofitting a poorly designed system is significantly more expensive.
Australian regulations
Master key system installation in Australia requires a valid security licence — Class 2F in NSW (Security Industry Act 1997), Private Security Licence in Victoria (Private Security Act 2004), or the equivalent under the Security Providers Act 1993 in Queensland. Systems in commercial and strata buildings must comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA), particularly regarding fire door access and emergency egress. The Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA) provides specific training and certification for master key system design. Locksmiths must maintain records of all restricted keys issued and ensure key authorisation protocols are robust.