Police check Application Form in Australia

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Australian National Character Check (ANCC) makes every effort to provide updated and accurate information to its customers. However due to the continuously changing nature of legislations for the Commonwealth and various States and Territories, it is inevitable that some information may not be up to date. The information on the website is general information only. The contents on the website do not constitute legal or professional advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal or professional advice. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, suitability, accuracy or availability with respect to the information.

The police check is one of the most popular assessment documents for any purpose in Australia. From Employments to Probity to Licensing, the application is available across the States in Australia.

If you employ any of the methods advised below, applying for a police check should be a breeze.

How to complete a police check Application Form

There are various methods and agencies to process your police check, but the most popular method of them is applying online;

Online police check Application Form

When you apply online, you should get your police check certificate within 24 hours or so. The remaining that get referred for manual processing will take longer. The application process involves filling a simple form that takes less than 15 minutes to complete.

You can apply online using any of; PC, Tablet, or mobile device connected to the internet. Also, you can complete all ID verification, document submission, and other payments online. It is the most convenient method, especially for those with a tight schedule.

By following this simple step, you should receive a copy of your police check online:

1. Select the “Start a new police check” button on the portal of the Australian National Character Check
2. Complete the application form provided with accurate details of the examples listed below
3. Fill in all contact details and extra information required on the police check. Cross-check previous data you entered.
4. Select and fill the purpose of the police check application;
5. Complete payments via any of the online options; PayPal, Debit/Credit card, and co
6. Provide the Requested Identification documents by;

• Taking photos,
• Scanning and uploading,
• Mailing copies

7. Send all IDs before you can finally submit a police check application.
8. Sign the informed consent online before submitting the police check application.
9. Use our “Track a Check” option on the website to track the status of the application. The certificates are also downloadable as a PDF.
10. Get an electronic copy of the police check result. It is sent to the Email address on your application.

Applying through the Australian Federal Police

Some agencies may request that you obtain the police check from the Australian Police. It in no way reduces the authenticity of the check, it just depends on the requesting party’s preference.

Applying to the AFP may require a physical visit to the Local Police office to get identification documents certified. The form will also need to be printed and signed.

Applying at the AFP is a process that is not entirely online.

Applying through your Local Post office

The Post Office acts as a courier for police check applications, from the candidate to the National Check agency. However, applicants must submit all requested information together with the specified ID verification. Applying via the Post Office may also not be possible to complete entirely online.

What are the required fields on the application forms?

The police check compares the applicant data on the criminal record database of Australia. Therefore they request all important and pertinent data of the applicant.

The application form contains fields that require you to complete;

• Your full name; The name field also requires you to input any aliases, changes of names, and so on.
• Date of Birth.
• Address(es); including older addresses and other places of residence.
• A verifiable photograph should be present in any of the IDs you provide.

When submitting any of the information, you must be sure it can be verified through the ID you provide for verification. ANCC checks the authenticity of identification documents using the Attorney General’s Document Verification Service (DVS).

If you have changed your name(s), address, or other information, you must include a document that proves it.

What are the required verification documents for a police check application?

The required documents are divided into 3 categories and a minimum of four identification documents need to be provided.

The accepted IDs are;

1. One (1) Commencement of ID Document;
2. One (1) Primary Use in Community Document;
3. Two (2) Secondary Use in Community Documents.

How long does the police check last?

Police checks obtained from the ANCC have an unlimited period of validity; they are point in time checks.

However, most organisations do not accept a police check that was obtained over 3 months ago. It is prudent to apply for a police check closer to the period when you need it.

If you get another court conviction before the time the company requires a Police check, you should inform the employer.

How long do police checks take?

The police check takes 24 hours in around 70% of instances - when you apply online through ANCC. However, for some reason, an application may be flagged for manual review, which delays the processing. Checks that are referred for manual processing will take up to 15+ business days.

Manual reviews require an official to physically supervise and coordinate the checking.

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The contents of this website do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal or professional advice.