In 2006, the Victorian Government introduced a new checking system to help protect children under 18 years of age from physical or sexual harm.

The Working with Children (WWC) Check creates a mandatory minimum checking standard across Victoria. The WWC Check helps to keep children safe by preventing those who pose a risk to the safety of children from working with them, in either paid or volunteer work.

The Working with Children (WWC) Check is being phased in from 2006 to 2011. Each year different child-related occupational fields will be introduced. If you are required to pass the WWC Check, you must apply by the due date or you may be subject to penalties under the Working with Children Act. You can lodge your application at any time before the due date

Applications are available through the Department of Justice and more information is available at www.justice.vic.gov.au/workingwithchildren.

Some facilities have already made it mandatory for all staff to have a WWC Check before being accepted to work there.

We also have forms available in the office to distribute to members.