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Family » Childcare

Working With Children and Background Checks

If you are considering employing a candidate for sensitive positions including childcare, tutoring or housecleaning, a National Police Check or a Working With Children Check (WWCC) will give you a sense of security.

The Australian Standard recommends pre-employment screening be carried out by small and large employers. It states that pre-employment screening include:

• Verification of identity (birth certificate, driver’s license)
• Police Check
• Reference check with 2 most recent employers
• Consideration of any gaps in employment history
• Verification of formal qualifications
• A more in-depth process for sensitive positions (such as a WWCC)

This type of screening is becoming more common with parents who are inviting service providers into their home. If you are leaving you children or the contents of your home to a relative stranger it is wise to do some checking.

Police Check

NSW – You can apply for a ‘Name and date of birth check’. Information about NSW police checks can be found by visiting www.police.nsw.gov.au

ACT – This is a national search conducted by the Australia Federal Police. To obtain a Police background check go to:
National Police Checks

VIC – You can applt for a ‘Consent to Check and Release National Police Record’. Information about police checks can be found at www.police.vic.gov.au

QLD – You can apply for a Criminal History Record Check (Qld only) or for a Police Certificate (Australia-wide) check at any police station in Queensland.

TAS – Information about Police History Records Check can be found at www.police.tas.gov.au

Working with Children Check (WWCC)

In most states and territories of Australia, it is mandatory to obtain a WWCC for child-related employment. Those states that have legislated a compulsory WWCC vary in their approach. Please see below for more information about a WWCC in your area.

ACT and NSW
Currently there are no provisions for individuals to obtain a WWCC. Only businesses and organizations with an account with the Commission for Children and Young People can apply to have a WWCC done on an employee (with their permission).

QLD
The Blue card is for individuals seeking child-related employment. The cost for the check is $40 and is valid for two years. For more information about a Blue Card, visit:
Blue Card

WA
The Working with Children (Criminal Record Checking) Act 2004 was passed by State Parliament on 26 November 2004 and was proclaimed on 1 January 2006. Commencing in 2006, all self-employed people working with children in connection with all categories of child-related work will require a WWCC. The applicant will receive a card with photo ID that will be valid and updatable for three years. The cost of the application is $50 and the forms are available from any WA Australia Post Outlet. For more information, please visit:
WA WWCC.

VIC
The Victorian Government is in the process of phasing in a compulsory WWCC. Whilst still in the planning stages, more information can be found at:
VIC WWCC.

TAS, SA and NT
These states and territories are currently reviewing drafts and proposals regarding implementation of a similar WWCC in line with other states. There is currently no compulsory WWCC required for persons seeking child–related employment.

Working With Children Check vs Police Checks

There is a difference. If you are employing someone to work with your child/ren you need to know the difference. A WWCC is a more in-depth check for not only criminal convictions, but also any employment proceedings and Apprehended Violence Orders. However, the WWCC only searches and reports child-related offences. Other convictions such as theft, fraud and driving offences will only be revealed through a Police Check.