GardaWorld Federal Services

[tn-newb]

I'm looking for some information regarding GardaWorld. I have been offered a position in Afghanistan and I was wondering what the operational climate looks like over there. I know GardaWorld has been around for a while now and fairly established but I would like to hear from some gentleman with first hand experience.

Whats the attitude of most people working there current and former? What does the base utilities look like, are they pretty well established for contractor personnel? What is the shape of the equipment and what are the rules regarding bringing your own PPE?

Thanks in advance I am new to the contracting world and I am looking for any and all information that might help me.

[Mangorilla83]

I went through K9 training and NPSS with Garda in 2017. Decided not to deploy so I could develop my relationship at home (happily). The company has changed a tad since I left but many of my friends still work there and are happy.

Like most places there are sour apples but you make it what you want.

If you are K9 I can expand my option on the program but like I said its changed a bit. I'd still go back to Garda if the pay was more and the schedule better.

If they are offering you a slot I say go for it and stay positive!!

[Haknasty]

I left the project earlier last year as PSS. The job is boring, but boring is good. They have everything covered for accommodation(good thing about most US Contracts). As for bringing your own PPE, we had to wear issued kit (policy may have changed by now, but I highly doubt it, only RSO's get to flaunt the fancy stuff). Weapons are all in good condition. It's a steady job that'll probably last a long time. Attitude is typical, you have the grumpy and the overly optimistic. A lot of good guys there, very Marine-Heavy environment. I do believe you have to pay Afghan Taxes now though...

[pm410]

Originally Posted by Haknasty

I left the project earlier last year as PSS. The job is boring, but boring is good. They have everything covered for accommodation(good thing about most US Contracts). As for bringing your own PPE, we had to wear issued kit (policy may have changed by now, but I highly doubt it, only RSO's get to flaunt the fancy stuff). Weapons are all in good condition. It's a steady job that'll probably last a long time. Attitude is typical, you have the grumpy and the overly optimistic. A lot of good guys there, very Marine-Heavy environment. I do believe you have to pay Afghan Taxes now though...

Yep, we pay 20%

[LoweRider]

Originally Posted by pm410

Yep, we pay 20%

you have to pay 20% of your paycheck to the afghan government?!

[DSSRonin]

Originally Posted by LoweRider

you have to pay 20% of your paycheck to the afghan government?!

More likely you pay 20% to certain individuals in the Afghan govt.

An Afghan cannot be bought - but he can be rented.

[pm410]

Originally Posted by DSSRonin

More likely you pay 20% to certain individuals in the Afghan govt.

An Afghan cannot be bought - but he can be rented.

I’d love to know where the money goes, cause it’s certsinly not being invested into the infrastructure here lol.

[Massgrunt]

It's being invested in infrastructure, just that infrastructure is in Dubai.

[LoweRider]

Originally Posted by pm410

I’d love to know where the money goes, cause it’s certsinly not being invested into the infrastructure here lol.

I guess I'll need to find a CPA that knows how to handle contractor tax returns whenever I get on board with the contract I'm after.


It's probably being funneled to the taliban/ISIS.. but that's just my assumption.

[TrUSP33D]

Which camp / FOB are you going to. I’m on R&R but I’ve been with Garda/ Aegis for a year now.. I can let you know the optempo

[LoweRider]

Originally Posted by TrUSP33D

Which camp / FOB are you going to. I’m on R&R but I’ve been with Garda/ Aegis for a year now.. I can let you know the optempo

I'll send you a PM. I'm starting the process with Garda

[Pez83]

Hey there,

Curious if anyone has any information regarding Garda in Kabul, more specifically at the Aussie Embassy.

Have recently commenced the recruitment process for static guard commander position and would be really appreciative to speak with someone who has some experience there. In regards to conditions, tax implications and such..

Thanks

[nofear]

Originally Posted by Pez83

Hey there,

Curious if anyone has any information regarding Garda in Kabul, more specifically at the Aussie Embassy.

Have recently commenced the recruitment process for static guard commander position and would be really appreciative to speak with someone who has some experience there. In regards to conditions, tax implications and such..

Thanks

Not many Aussies on this board that are on that gig. Have quite a few mates there. Nothing to complain about, although it does happen, (the complaining). I work with the former Ops Manager on that gig.

Tax - It's not "exempt" due to your being employed by a non-Aussie company, but it does fall under tax-free ATO status being in support of an approved Aussie Govt mission. Confusing? Sure. Get a tax agent with experience and knowledge dealing with that realm.

Food - Good.
Gyms - Good.
Internet - Good.
Workload - Good, but can vary dependant on which specific compound you are on.

Due to them winning the Baghdad contract, there are a few people looking to move over, which could potentially open a few spots for promotion, if you keep your nose clean etc.

Good luck with it.

[Pez83]

Thanks heaps for your quick reply.

And yeah, everything about ATO poilcy is confusing haha