Master Key Systems
Strengthen your security with a master key system
Key control is one of the most important aspects of modern security. If you can’t control who copies your keys, you can’t control your facility. That’s why professionally designed master key systems are essential for government, commercial and residential sites that require scalable, structured access.
At John Barnes Group, we design custom master key systems to help you manage access across your site – giving you the ability to permit or restrict entry to specific rooms, zones or doors. Whether you’re securing a hospital, school, multi-tenant complex or office tower, we build every system with precision, protection and practicality in mind.
A truly effective master key system is the product of harmonious thinking between security planning, operational needs and end-user experience.
How a master key system works
A master key system consists of a hierarchy of keys designed to work with specific locks. While each door has its own unique key – known as an individual key – a master key can unlock multiple or all locks within the same system.
For example: keys issued for Office 1 won’t open the door to Office 2, but a Master Key will operate both doors. This system is convenient if an employee or tenant loses their keys or requires emergency access.
This structure ensures that every person on site has the right key for their level of access – no more, no less. In more complex organisations, master key systems can be built with multiple levels – such as grand master or great grand master keys – to suit large-scale sites or multi-building facilities.
Providing top security solutions for over 50 years
Procuring a master key system from John Barnes Group gives you the added peace of mind of knowing your keys can’t be copied by just anyone – they are only issued by our company upon receiving the correct authorisation. Every system we build is based on the principles laid down over 50 years of practical experience and continuous improvement.”
We’ve designed and maintained many master key systems for a wide variety of properties and facilities over the past five decades. These include everything from government buildings and healthcare sites to commercial offices and residential developments.
Here’s how we tailor solutions across different sectors:
Our master key system brands & profiles
John Barnes Group offers access to a range of patented key profiles – designed for high security, durability and long-term patent protection. These profiles prevent unauthorised key duplication and are ideal for sites that require tight access control protocols.
We work with leading systems, including (but not limited to):
- Abloy Protec 2
- Abloy Protec 3
- Kaba IP8
- Kaba Pextra
- Kaba Expert Plus
- Lockwood GEN6T
- Lockwood MT5
- Bilock Exclusive
- Evva
Our system designers are trade experts – we’ll help you select the right system for your building layout, security goals and future growth plans. While we can’t reveal all our amazing secrets, our clients trust us to deliver secure, reliable access control systems tailored to their exact needs.
No Job is too Big or Too Small
Commercial
We provide flexible, scalable access solutions for commercial environments with complex access needs. Our team regularly collaborates with facilities managers, body corporates and construction professionals to deliver master key systems that align with broader building projects and timelines. Our master key systems are used across:
- Office buildings
- Shopping centres
- Schools and universities
- Medical centres and hospitals
- Hotels, hostels and shared tenancies
These systems allow building managers to control who has access to each level, room or tenant area, while maintaining high security and convenience for staff and contractors. In large commercial buildings, for example, the main entrance may be accessible to all staff, while internal doors require restricted access levels.”
Residential
For strata managers, landlords and homeowners, we offer master key systems that simplify access while maintaining security across shared spaces and private areas. These systems are ideal for:
- Apartment complexes
- Townhouses
- Gated communities
- Multi-level homes and dual occupancies
Each resident can have individual keys for their units while allowing strata or property managers to retain master key access for maintenance, emergencies or tenant transitions.
Industrial
Our team has worked with factories, warehouses, and utility sites to create master key systems that meet strict security standards. These environments often require tiered access – from operational staff to external contractors – as well as robust hardware built for high-use and harsh conditions.
Master key systems in industrial settings allow you to secure:
- Loading docks
- Equipment rooms
- Admin offices
- External gates and perimeter access
- Dangerous goods storage areas
Why choose us for all your project needs
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Trusted By Many Businesses
For five decades and counting, John Barnes has been the provider of choice for a vast array of businesses, both large and small.
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Quality Service & Products
Our company has built a reputation for quality service, products and advice. This has been made possible through our stringent quality controls and continuous training within the organisation.
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Prompt and Professional Services
Our experienced sales personnel and licensed automotive locksmiths take pride in providing effective and timely services, as well as offering expert locksmith industry advice.
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