How to Specify Security Screens for Coastal Australian Builds

May 28th, 2026

Who is this guide for?

This guide is for architects, builders and specifiers working on coastal residential projects in Australia. It covers material selection, Australian Standards compliance and what to specify for different coastal risk zones

What Australian Standard applies to security screens?

Security screens must meet Australian Standards AS5039-2023 to be classified as security screens. AS5039-2023 requires independent testing across six categories:

• Knife Shear Test
• Pull Test
• Anti-Jemmy Test
• Impact Test
• Probe Test
• Shear Test

Products that do not meet AS5039-2023 are classified as safety screens, not security screens. This distinction matters for NCC compliance and insurance purposes.

All security screens must be installed to AS5039.2:2024 by a licensed installer.

Further Information about these tests is found here in our product testing page. 

What mesh material should be specified for coastal builds?

Standard Coastal – within 50km of coastline: Specify 316 marine grade stainless steel mesh as a minimum. 316 grade contains 2-3% molybdenum, significantly more corrosion resistant than 304 structural grades used by some manufacturers

High Coastal Risk – within 2km of coastline: Specify 316 marine grade mesh. Consider additional frame coating protection. 

Extreme Coastal – within 500 metres of coastline: Standard 316 marine grade mesh is not sufficient. The aluminium frame, powder coating and fixing system must also be engineered for extreme corrosive conditions. 

What is the correct specification for extreme coastal environments?

The SaltWaterSeries from CommandeX is the only security screen in Australia specifically engineered for extreme coastal environment. 

Why does the fixing system matter in coastal specifications? 

Any fixing system that creates metal on metal contact between the stainless steel mesh and aluminium frame creates a galvanic corrosion risk, even with 316 marine grade mesh. 

CommandeX’s patented two part wedge system bonded with 3m VHB aerospace adhesive eliminates metal on metal contact entirely. No Screws. No rivets. No direct contact between dissimilar metals 

What are the bushfire specification requirements? 

For builds in bushfire prone areas, security screens must meet the relevant Bushfire Attack Level under AS3959:2018

SecureView EclipX and SaltWaterSeries satisfy requirements for:

• BAL 12.5
• BAL 19
• BAL 29
• BAL 40

What are the cyclone specification requirements?

For builds in cyclone regions, screens must meet AS/NZS1170.2:2021 Category 3

SecureView EclipX and SaltWaterSeries resist a 4kg timber projectile at 30 metres per second, surpassing the standard requirement of 15 metres per second.

What is the specification summary by environment?

Where can I get CAD drawings for project documentation? 

The files can be access by either calling 1300 720 838 or by filling out the online enquiry form at commandex.com.au/contact/

How are CommandeX products installed

All CommandeX products are installed by a licensed dealer network across the eastern seaboard. Every installation complies with AS 5039.2-2024. 

Rockford Screens & Blinds which is a part of CommandeX group can provide manufacturing with a guaranteed 10 working day turnaround.