Working with Children Check (WWCC)

What is the WWCC?

As a result of the 2016 Nyland Royal Commission into child protection, the South Australian Government introduced the Child Safety (Prohibited Persons) Act 2016. The Working with Children Check (WWCC) is a requirement brought in under this Act to further improve checks on people who work or volunteer with children.

Is the WWCC mandatory for teachers?

Yes. On 1 July 2019, a WWCC became a mandatory requirement for anyone in South Australia who works with children. Working with Children Checks are valid for five years from the date of issue.

Do I still need a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (police check)?

Yes. To become registered or to renew your registration you will be required to have a WWCC check from the Department of Human Services as well as give your consent for the Board to conduct a police check as part of the registration process. Both are requirements for teacher registration in South Australia.

What is the difference between the Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (police check) and the WWCC?

The important differences between a police check and the WWCC are:

• A police check is one of the fitness and probity checks required by the Teachers Registration Board. Police checks are valid at the time the information is released by police and list offences from a person’s criminal history that can be disclosed.
• A WWCC primarily focusses on a person’s eligibility to work with children. Once a WWCC is granted applicants are continuously monitored so any changes are actioned appropriately.

Read about the differences between the checks here.

WWCC Frequently Asked Questions