Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about your Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.
Common questions
Sometimes called a 'police check', it involves comparing your details (such as name and date of birth) against a central index of names, using a name-matching algorithm, to determine whether you match anyone with recorded police history information. It's provided through the ACIC's National Police Checking Service (NPCS), working with Australian police agencies.
A Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check is provided through the ACIC and accredited bodies like 1-Check, and checks your name against a national database. An AFP Check is a separate product issued directly by the Australian Federal Police, required for certain applications such as some Commonwealth Government roles.
No. Each Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check result applies to the specific purpose it was requested for — for example, a check obtained for one job can't be used to satisfy a second employer's requirement. You'll need a new application for each purpose.
No — a Working with Children Check is a separate, state-issued check specifically for working with children or vulnerable people. It doesn't replace a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check, and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check doesn't replace it either.
You'll need five identity documents across three categories — one commencement-of-identity document (such as a birth certificate or passport), one primary-use document (such as a driver licence), and two secondary-use documents (such as a Medicare card or bank card) — plus a self-captured photo. The full category lists are shown during the application.
About 70% of applications are completed within minutes. The remaining applications can take up to 10 business days while your details are reviewed by the relevant police agency; incorrect information (including misspelt names) can cause delays.