Starting a new job or embarking on a volunteer journey is an exciting milestone. However, the excitement can quickly turn into a bit of administrative confusion when you see Police Check Required on your onboarding checklist. You might find yourself searching, how can I get a police check quickly? or wondering about the legalities behind it.
In Australia, the official term for this document is a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC). It is a vital tool used by employers and licensing bodies to ensure the safety of the community. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you have the clarity and confidence to secure your certificate without the stress.
Understanding the National Police Check
Before we dive into the how, it’s important to understand the what. A police check is a search of your name against the national criminal records database. It looks for Disclosable Court Outcomes (DCOs), which include convictions, findings of guilt, and pending charges across all Australian states and territories.
While it is a national document, the process can vary depending on who you choose as your provider. So, how can I get a police check that is valid for all Australian workplaces? The answer lies in choosing an ACIC accredited provider or a state police agency.
The Two Paths: Accredited Bodies vs. Police Agencies
When asking, how can I get a police check?, you generally have two main avenues:
1. ACIC-Accredited Online Providers
Accredited bodies, like Rapid Screening, are private organisations authorised by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) to process these checks.
- Pros: They are built for speed and user experience. Most applications are completed 100% online, and results are often returned in minutes for clear records.
- Cons: There is usually a service fee.
2. State or Territory Police Agencies
You can apply directly through the police in your state (e.g., Victoria or NSW).
- Pros: It is the traditional official source.
- Cons: The process can involve more manual steps, such as visiting a station or waiting for paper-based results in the mail.
For most Australians today, the digital path is the preferred method due to its efficiency.
A Step-by-Step Guide: How Can I Get a Police Check Online?
The digital age has made the application process significantly faster. If you’re sitting at home wondering, how can I get a police check right now?, here is the step-by-step breakdown of the online route:
Step 1: Complete the Online Form
You will start by providing your personal details: full legal name, all previous names, date of birth, and five years of residential address history.
Step 2: Digital Identity Verification
This is where many people get stuck. You need to meet the 100 point identity check. Online providers now use secure Linkage technology, where you upload photos of your ID and a selfie to prove the documents belong to you.
Step 3: Consent and Submission
You must give Informed Consent. This is a legal requirement stating that you understand why the check is being done and that you permit the results to be shared with the requesting organisation.
Step 4: Fast Results
Once submitted, the system checks your details against the National Names Index. For about 70% of applicants, the result comes back as a No Disclosable Court Outcome (NDCO) within a few hours.
The 100 Point Identity Rule
To verify your identity, you must provide a combination of documents that add up to 100 points. At least one must be a Commencement document.
| Document Category | Examples | Points |
| Commencement | Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, Citizenship Certificate | 70 Points |
| Primary | Australian Driver’s Licence, Marriage Certificate | 40 Points |
| Secondary | Medicare Card, Bank Statement, Utility Bill | 25 Points |
Pro Tip: Make sure the name on your application matches your ID exactly. Even a missing middle name can trigger a manual review, slowing down your results.
Why Speed Matters: How Can I Get a Police Check in Minutes?
In a competitive job market, timing is everything. If you wait for a paper-based check, you might be waiting 10 to 15 business days. When people ask us, how can I get a police check fast enough for a Monday start?, we point them toward our streamlined online portal.
By using an ACIC accredited provider, your application enters the system instantly. If you have a clean record and no common name matches, the automation handles the work, delivering a digital certificate to your inbox while you’re still finishing your coffee.
Managing Expectations: The Referral Process
While 70% of checks are instant, the remaining 30% are “referred” for manual vetting. This doesn’t mean you have a criminal record! It usually happens because:
- You have a common name.
- You have lived in multiple states.
- The system found a potential match that a human officer needs to verify.
If your check is referred, it can take between 1 and 15 business days. This is why we always recommend applying as early as possible.
Common Questions: How Can I Get a Police Check for Volunteering?
If you are joining a non-profit or community group, you still need a check. Many people ask, how can I get a police check for a lower cost for volunteer work?
Accredited bodies often offer a Volunteer Category check. These are processed the same way but are clearly marked for volunteer purposes. Note that you cannot use a volunteer check for a paid job, as the legislative requirements for disclosure can differ.
The Rapid Screening Advantage
At Rapid Screening, we know that compliance is just another hurdle between you and your goal. We’ve designed our system to be as frictionless as possible. So, how can I get a police check with less stress?
- Mobile Friendly: Complete the whole process on your phone.
- Secure: We use bank-level encryption to protect your ID.
- Support: If you get stuck on the 100 point check, our Australian based team is here to help.
Conclusion
Securing your background check doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you choose a state police agency or a fast online provider, the key is preparation. Gather your 100 points of ID, double-check your name spelling, and provide five years of address history.
Now that you know the answer to how can I get a police check?, you can tick this off your to do list and focus on what really matters: your new job or volunteer role.
Would you like me to help you draft the identity document checklist for your specific application?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q) How long is a police check valid for?
Technically, a police check has no expiry date. It is a point in time check. However, most employers will not accept a certificate older than 3 or 6 months.
Q) How can I get a police check if I don’t have an Australian Passport?
You can use a foreign passport with a valid Australian Visa, or an Australian Birth Certificate. As long as you can reach 100 points using the accepted documents, you can apply.
Q) Can I get a refund if I change my mind?
Once an application is submitted to the ACIC, the government fees are non refundable. Always double check your details before hitting submit!
Q) Is a digital certificate the same as a paper one?
Yes. Digital certificates issued by accredited bodies are official documents and include security features to prevent tampering. Most employers now prefer digital copies for easier filing.
