Working With Children Check Victoria | How to Apply

A Working with Children Check (WWCC) in Victoria is a mandatory screening process for anyone who engages in “child-related work.” It assesses your criminal history and professional conduct to ensure you do not pose an unjustifiable risk to children.

Here is a guide on how the check works, the costs involved, and how to apply.

1. Do You Need a Check?

You generally need a WWCC if you meet all of the following criteria:

• You are an adult (18+).

• You work or volunteer with children (under 18 years old).

• Your work involves direct contact with children (physical, face-to-face, written, or oral).

• Your contact with children is a regular part of your duties (not incidental).

• You work in one of the specific occupational fields listed under the Act (e.g., schools, coaching, religious organisations, clubs).

Note: Teachers registered with the VIT (Victorian Institute of Teaching) and sworn Victoria Police officers are generally exempt, as they undergo separate screening.

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2. Costs (Current for 2025-26)

The fee structure depends on whether you are doing paid work or volunteer work.

• Tax Deduction: If you require the check for your employment, you may be able to claim the cost as a tax deduction.

• Transitioning: If you hold a Volunteer Check and move to paid work, you must upgrade to an Employee Check. This involves paying the fee (usually the difference in cost).

3. How to Apply

The application process is handled primarily online through Service Victoria.

Step 1: Verify your Identity

• You need a smartphone to verify your identity using the Service Victoria app, OR

• You can verify your identity at a participating Australia Post outlet if you cannot do it online.

Step 2: Complete the Application

• Visit the Service Victoria website or use the app.

• Fill in your personal details and 5 years of address history.

• Select the codes for the occupational fields you will be working in (e.g., Code 42 for Clubs/Associations).

• Enter the details of the organisation(s) you will be working for.

Step 3: Submission & Assessment

• For Employees: Pay the fee online via credit card/PayPal.

• For Volunteers: Submit for free.

• If you did not verify your ID online, you will get a barcode to take to Australia Post to finalize the lodgement and have your photo taken.

4. After You Apply

• Processing Time: It usually takes 3 to 12 weeks to process, though many are faster.

• Working While Waiting: In most cases, you can start working once you have your application receipt (Application Number), but some organisations may require the final card before you start.

• Digital Card: Once approved, you can access a digital WWCC card immediately in the Service Victoria app. You will also receive a physical card in the mail.

5. Validity & Renewal

• Duration: The check is valid for 5 years.

• Renewal: You can renew your check from 6 months before it expires to 3 months after.

• Automatic Monitoring: During the 5 years, your records are continuously monitored. If you are charged with a relevant offence, your check may be suspended or revoked immediately.