A background check is like a backstage pass that helps employers and organisations make sure you\u2019re a perfect fit for the role. In this blog post we cover the different types of background checks and pre-employment screening in Australia \u2013 we\u2019ve got you covered with all you need to know!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Australia, there are two types of criminal history background checks. They are: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Formally known as a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC), a “standard police check” or “ACIC police check” is a nationwide criminal record check across all Australian states and territories. This check, conducted by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission<\/a> (ACIC), runs your name against existing Australian police records to identify disclosable information on criminal history, including any court convictions and pending court matters, charges, findings of guilt without conviction, traffic offences, and good behaviour bonds at the national and state\/territory level. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This type of check is primarily used for employment purposes. A standard police check isn\u2019t suitable if you\u2019re seeking employment with the Australian Commonwealth Government or under Commonwealth legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The average turnaround time for the majority of standard checks is 1 to 2 business days. However, some circumstances can lead to a longer turnaround time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reasons to get a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC):<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2714 Overseas employment purposes The average turnaround time for national checks is 5 to 15 business days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A volunteer police check or volunteer NCCHC check is a nationwide criminal record check across all Australian states and territories. This check, conducted by the same Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission<\/a> (ACIC) who manages standard NCCHC criminal history background checks, also runs your name against existing Australian police records to identify disclosable information on criminal history, including any court convictions and pending court matters, charges, findings of guilt without conviction, traffic offences, and good behaviour bonds at the national and state or territory level.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you can tell, it’s similar to a standard NCCHC but may have reduced or waived fees for volunteers. The volunteer police check is intended to support organisations in ensuring the safety of their volunteers and the people they serve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A volunteer police check is designed for individuals seeking volunteer positions such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2714 Immigration and visa purposes
\u2714 Commonwealth employment purposes
\u2714 Firearms licences
\u2714 Other approved purposes as stipulated on the AFP website<\/p>\n\n\n\nVolunteer Police Check<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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National Police Check <\/h3>\n\n\n\n