If you own a Bendigo business with multiple staff, multiple doors, and the inevitable problem of who has access to what, a restricted master key system is worth understanding. Once it's set up properly it makes managing keys much simpler.
The basic idea
A master key system uses specially designed locks where multiple different keys can open the same lock. Each lock can be opened by its own individual key, plus a master key that opens many locks. You design which keys open which doors when the system is built.
A typical setup
Imagine a restaurant. The chef's key opens the kitchen, the cool room and the back door. The waitstaff key opens the dining room and the front. The manager's key opens everything. The cleaner's key opens just the front door and the bathrooms. One door (the safe) is excluded from the master key and only the owner's key opens it.
The "restricted" part
Restricted key systems use patented keyway designs that can only be cut by authorised dealers. Lost keys can't be copied at the local hardware shop. This matters because over the years staff turnover happens, and you don't want every ex-employee's keys floating around in circulation able to be copied freely.
What it costs in Bendigo
For a system covering 5-10 doors with 6-10 keys: $1,500-$3,000 for the initial install including all lock cylinders, key blanks and cutting. Replacement keys are then around $30-$50 each from the authorised dealer (which is a normal Bendigo locksmith), with verification that you're allowed to order them.
When it stops making sense
For a small two-door business with one or two staff, just rekey when staff change. The master key system is overkill. For 5+ doors and rotating staff, the convenience and security are worth the cost.
Setting it up properly
The system needs a written key schedule - which key opens which door, who holds which key, and a process for adding/removing access. A good locksmith provides this as part of the install. Without it, the system gets messy fast.