The Ava Group

What The Ava Group does

The Ava Group (Ava Risk Group Limited, ASX: AVA) is an Australian-listed provider of risk management technologies, headquartered in Mulgrave, Victoria, with operations across six continents and "thousands of sites protected" in defence, border security, energy, transportation, corrections, mining and telecommunications. The group is organised into three wholly-owned technology divisions: Detect (Future Fibre Technologies / FFT), which manufactures fibre optic distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) systems including the Aura Ai-X and Aura Ai-XS intrusion detection platforms; Access (BQT Solutions), which produces high-security card and biometric readers, electromechanical locks (YD30 Cobalt series, YG80B Bluetooth lock, Orca); and Illuminate (GJD Manufacturing), which supplies external detection, ANPR cameras, LED illuminators and the LX LoRa Connect wireless integration system. The Services division (Ava Global) was divested in 2021 to refocus on technology.

Underlying technology centres on proprietary fibre optic sensing with deep-learning AI that detects, classifies and locates disturbances to within ±5 metres. Aura Ai-X carries Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2) certification to EN50128:2011 for railway control and protection. The business sells primarily through enterprise field sales tendered for government and critical infrastructure projects, augmented by system integrators (Siemens, Honeywell, UGL) and channel partners (dormakaba globally for BQT products; SourceIT in the US; Aeon Security in Brazil). Revenue is split between hardware project sales, multi-year services and support contracts (e.g., Sydney Trains five-year deal, Telstra supply agreement), and a growing subscription/ARR line (A$2.6M contracted ARR at FY2025 year-end, up from A$2.3M at H1 FY2025) tied to Aura Ai-X software and monitoring.

FY2025 group revenue was A$31.7 million (+5% YoY), with underlying EBITDA of A$2.1M (vs a prior-year loss) and A$5.6M of cash at 30 June 2025. Management is guiding FY2026 revenue to A$37.0–A$40.0 million. Notable disclosed customers include Telstra, Sydney Trains, SMRT Singapore, GAIL India (1,104 km pipeline), ADNOC/Honeywell Middle East, Sonatrach (Algeria gas field), Woodside Energy, Dubai International Airport, Sibanye-Stillwater, Atlas Energy Solutions, New York Power Authority, Louisiana Department of Corrections, US Federal Government and Belgian military bases.

Name

The Ava Group

Legal name

Ava Risk Group Limited

Website

https://theavagroup.com

Company type

Public

Founded year

2017

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

The Ava Group (ASX: AVA) is an Australian-listed risk management technology group operating three divisions — Future Fibre Technologies (fibre optic intrusion detection), BQT Solutions (card readers and locks), and GJD Manufacturing (external detection and illumination) — serving defence, government, energy, transportation, mining, and corrections customers across six continents.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Physical Security and Perimeter Intrusion Detection Technology

NAICS

Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths) (561621), Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing (33451), Security Systems Services (56162)

SIC

Instruments For Meas & Testing Of Electricity & Elec Signals (3825), Measuring & Controlling Devices, Nec (3829)

akta.pro primary industry

Physical Security IoT & Smart Building Security Integration (Sensors, BMS tie-ins) (BPAKAGAL)

akta.pro secondary industry

Video Analytics & AI Security Solutions Integration (LPR, Facial, Behavior) (BPAKAGAK)

Keywords

• Fibre optic sensing
• Intrusion detection systems
• Perimeter security technology
• Access control hardware
• Critical infrastructure protection

Headquarters

HQ city

Mulgrave

HQ country

Australia

HQ region

Oceania

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Hardware and Equipment Sales: Sale of physical security products including fibre optic detection controllers, biometric readers, locks, illuminators, and related equipment. One-time capital expenditure for customers with hardware forming the core product offering.
2. Subscription and Recurring Revenue: Annual recurring revenue from subscriptions for Aura Ai-X software and monitoring services. Also includes multi-year service contracts and support agreements. At H1 FY2025, contracted annual recurring revenue was $2.3 million, growing to $2.6 million by FY2025 year end.
3. Professional Services: Installation, commissioning, and technical support services. Includes system integration, training, and ongoing maintenance contracts. Multi-year support agreements with organizations like Sydney Trains.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

The Ava Group designs, manufactures, and supplies risk management technologies across three divisions: Detect (fibre optic intrusion detection and location systems such as Aura Ai-X with deep-learning AI), Access (high-security biometric card readers and electromechanical locks under BQT Solutions), and Illuminate (external detection equipment, ANPR cameras, and LED illuminators under GJD Manufacturing). Offerings are deployed to protect perimeters, pipelines, data networks, conveyors, and critical infrastructure for government, defence, energy, transportation, mining, and telecommunications customers globally.

Product overview

The Ava Group is a market leader in risk management technologies operating three business segments: Detect, Access, and Illuminate. The Detect segment (Future Fibre Technologies) manufactures and markets fibre optic sensing systems including Aura Ai-X and Aura Ai-XS (advanced intrusion detection with deep learning), Aura IQ (predictive conveyor health monitoring), Secure Fence/Secure Zone/SecureLink (legacy detection controllers), and Phase Controller technology. The Access segment (BQT Solutions) specializes in high security card and biometric readers, electronic locks including YD30 Cobalt Series, YG80B Bluetooth lock, and Orca lock. The Illuminate segment (GJD Manufacturing) provides ANPR cameras, D-TECT Laser detectors, LED illuminators, and LX LoRa Connect wireless integration system supporting up to 500 devices. The portfolio serves commercial, industrial, military, and government clients globally across six continents.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Future Fibre Technologies (FFT): Detect division: fibre optic intrusion detection and location products for perimeters, pipelines, and data networks.
• BQT Solutions
• GJD Manufacturing (GJD)
• Aura Ai-X
• Aura Ai-XS
• Aura IQ
• LX LoRa Connect
• YD30 / YD30S Series
• YG80B
• D-TECT Laser

Products and services

• Aura Ai-X Advanced fibre optic intrusion detection and location controller using deep learning algorithms for perimeter, pipeline, conveyor, power cable, and data network security. Detects and pinpoints disturbances to within ±5m.
• Aura Ai-XS Intrusion detection solution specifically designed for shorter perimeters up to 10 kilometres (6 miles), offering the deep learning capabilities of Aura Ai-X at a lower price point for smaller facilities such as substations, industrial estates, and corrections facilities.
• Aura IQ Predictive conveyor health monitoring system using fibre optic sensing technology for bulk handling operations, forecasting maintenance needs and optimising conveyor performance in the mining sector.
• FFT Secure Fence Fibre optic intrusion detection system for perimeter protection across fences and perimeters; being replaced by the Aura Ai-X platform at existing customer sites.
• FFT Secure Zone Fibre optic zone-based intrusion detection controller for perimeter security applications.
• FFT SecureLink Fibre optic intrusion detection technology for protecting military and government data networks and telecommunications infrastructure, including India's Ministry of Defence closed data network project.
• FFT Phase Controller Advanced phase controller technology that transforms fibre optic cables into highly sensitive acoustic sensors, enabling applications including exposed cable monitoring, leak detection, track monitoring, subsea cable monitoring, and enhanced event classification.
• YD30 Cobalt Series Revolutionary electromechanical lock series designed as a replacement for magnetic locks, with smooth door alignment and reliable release under heavy loads. Marketed as SL30 by dormakaba UK and integrated with access control systems.
• YG80B Bluetooth Lock Bluetooth-enabled lock with IP67 weather-resistance rating and built-in heater, engineered for harsh environments including prisons, cargo containers, gates, and roller doors, and operable via mobile phone.
• Orca Lock High-strength, waterproof, fully integrated lock designed for demanding security applications.
• BQT Smart Readers High security smart card and biometric readers for access control applications, with integrations including the Australian Government Department of Human Services.
• LX LoRa Connect Ultra-long-range wireless integration system transmitting signals up to 10 kilometres and supporting up to 500 devices wirelessly without data cables for perimeter protection projects. Seamlessly integrates with D-TECT Laser, FFT fibre sensing, BQT locks, and leading camera systems.
• D-TECT Laser Laser-based perimeter detection system that creates a virtual curtain of up to 25 metres for securing windows, courtyards, and perimeter protection. Used at Lord's Cricket Ground and prison facilities.
• LED Illuminators Infrared and white-light LED illuminators for external security lighting and detection enhancement, part of GJD's professional security equipment portfolio.
• ANPR Cameras Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras for security and access control applications, part of GJD's detection and illumination product range.

Quantifiable outcome

• Thousands of sites protected globally across defence, border security, energy, transportation, and communications sectors
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers19 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration4 records

AI capability4 records

Feature8 records

Partnerships

Twelve partnerships are on record, tiered core, flagship and minor.

• UniKey Technologies, Inc.coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 December 2025Five-year Master Supply and Services Agreement with UniKey, a leading US mobile-credential and smart-access technology company headquartered in Orlando, Florida. BQT and UniKey will co-develop a new range of NFC/BLE access control readers. Minimum purchase commitments of $4.6 million (US$3.0m) anticipated over five-year period.
• Telstra GroupflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 February 2024Major supply agreement with Telstra Group for detection systems and services. Includes sale of units, dedicated support resources, and infrastructure. Also includes installation of Aura Ai-X technology on a Telstra subsea cable, opening door to further deployments across subsea infrastructure.
• UGL LimitedcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMajor contract awarded for implementation of detection systems on major Sydney transportation project. Expanded scope of work with UGL in FY2025.
• Honeywell Middle EastcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerWorking with Honeywell Middle East to deploy FFT detection systems identifying access, threats and risks to critical infrastructure across a major oil and gas field operated by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company.
• Siemens LimitedcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerWorking with Siemens on major Australian transport project to monitor and identify risks critical to safe and efficient operation of infrastructure. Also working alongside Siemens at military bases in Belgium.
• dormakabaflagshipChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGlobal distribution partnership with dormakaba for BQT access control products. YD30 Series available through dormakaba UK as SL30, with significant opportunities in UK access control market. Partnership extended to dormakaba Australia and dormakaba India. Dormakaba USA supported YD30 Series at GSX Florida, Glass Build America Dallas, and DHI ConNextions Las Vegas.
• SourceITcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPartnership agreement with US-based SourceIT, specializing in design, distribution, and support of physical security solutions. First order received for D-TECT Laser and Illuminators. Supports efficient delivery of GJD products to growing integrator list.
• Mining3coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerStrategic partnership with Mining3, a global mining research organization, to deliver innovative predictive asset maintenance solutions to the global mining sector. Includes development and commercialization of Aura IQ conveyor monitoring system.
• Aeon SecuritycoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorFFT's largest renewable energy sector partner in Brazil. Installing Aura Ai-XS at new solar farms in Brazil.
• VeracitekminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPartnership with Veracitek in South Africa for Sibanye-Stillwater water pipe protection project.
• ECOME Trading and Technology JSCminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerEngaged as integrator to deliver FFT technology at Central Committee Party Document Archive facility in Vietnam.
• Australian Government - Border Protection Technologies PanelflagshipStrategic or Co-development PartnerAva Risk Group appointed to Australian Government's Border Protection Technologies Panel, enabling direct sourcing opportunities across government departments for border security solutions.

Scale indicators14 records

Recent moves9 records

Expansion highlights7 records

Broad incumbents

• ASSA ABLOY: Global leader in access control, locks and entrance solutions — broad incumbent overlapping with Ava's BQT and GJD divisions across commercial, institutional and government security.
• Axis Communications: Network-video leader whose IP cameras and analytics increasingly bundle into PIDS offerings — broad incumbent Ava competes against (and integrates with) for transport, city and critical-infrastructure perimeter projects.
• Genetec (Security Center): Unified physical security platform (video, access, intrusion) sold through integrators like Siemens and Honeywell — competes with Ava's integrated Detect/Access/Illuminate stack as a software-first alternative.
• Honeywell Building Technologies: Honeywell's security division delivers video surveillance, access control and intrusion systems — both a system integrator for Ava in the Middle East and a broad incumbent competing across Ava's full stack.

Direct peers

• Allegion: US-listed pure-play access control and lock company (Schlage, Von Duprin) — a direct competitor to BQT Solutions in high-security electromechanical locks for corrections, transport and government sites.
• Senstar Corporation: Canadian-headquartered specialist in perimeter intrusion detection systems (fibre optic, microwave, fence sensors) serving utilities, corrections, defence and oil & gas customers — the closest direct competitor to FFT/Ava's fibre optic PIDS portfolio.
• OPTEX: Japanese manufacturer of outdoor/intrusion detection sensors including fibre optic (Fiber SenSys) and PIR/laser detectors — directly comparable to Ava's Detect and Illuminate product lines in perimeter and external detection.
• Magal Security Systems (Sasa/Qognify): Israel-based perimeter security specialist offering PIDS (SmartFence/FiberPatrol), video management and physical security solutions — competes with Ava in critical infrastructure, corrections and homeland security projects.
• dormakaba: Swiss-headquartered global access control and locking solutions provider — both a channel partner and a direct competitor to BQT Solutions' high-security readers and electromechanical locks.

Emerging players

• Southwest Microwave: US-based specialist in outdoor microwave and fence-mounted intrusion detection sensors — comparable emerging/niche competitor focused on corrections, utilities and high-security perimeters.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/AvaGroupSRM

Compliance3 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles8 records

Subsidiaries4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about The Ava Group