Working with Children

Change of Government Policy - New Working With Children Check from 2013

The NSW Commission for Children and Young People will be introducing a new Working With Children Check in NSW from late 2012 to reflect the new Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012 (opens in a new window).

The new check:

  • will be “owned” by the worker rather than the employer;
  • will last for five years;
  • will be valid for any child-related work or volunteering over its five-year life.

Applicants will receive a clearance or a bar. People with a bar may not work or volunteer in child-related roles.

Impact and obligations for UWS

As an employer, UWS must verify that their child-related workers and volunteers have a current Working With Children Check.

Volunteers and new employees will be required to provide proof they can work in child related roles. The onus of responsibility for providing proof is on the volunteer or new employee. A Volunteer Check cannot be used for paid work with children.

The new check will operate online. It is free for volunteers and costs $80 for paid staff.

What about students required to complete practical work?

Students enquiring about Working With Children Checks required for a course should direct their questions to their course coordinator or School contact.

What will we do until the new check comes into effect?

Until the new arrangements come into place, UWS requires all preferred applicants for paid child-related employment complete a NSW National Police Check (opens in a new window) and submit the clearance with their signed offer before starting work. A NSW National Police Check costs from $52.

If the applicant is an unpaid Volunteer, they must declare that they are not a prohibited person, using the Volunteer Declaration and include 100 points of identification.

Where do I obtain further information?

The NSW Commission for Children and Young People has further information available to assist employers, volunteers, employees and students on its Working With Children Check website (opens in a new window).

View the Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012 (opens in a new window).

Or alternatively email your enquiries about the new Working With Children Check to newcheck@kids.nsw.gov.au.

Who should I contact if I have further questions?

Caterina Kuipers in UWS Recruitment.

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