In today’s competitive job market, employers are more focused than ever on hiring individuals who not only meet the skills and experience requirements of a role but also demonstrate trustworthiness, responsibility, and good character. One of the key ways employers assess this is by requesting a National Criminal History Check—commonly referred to as a police check.
But why do employers require a national criminal history check? What does it involve? And how could it impact your employment prospects in Australia?
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this increasingly common pre-employment requirement, the industries that demand it, and what job seekers should know before applying.
What Is a National Criminal History Check?
A National Criminal History Check is an official background screening process used to identify any criminal convictions, charges, or court outcomes recorded against an individual across all Australian states and territories. The check is coordinated through the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) and is commonly requested by employers during recruitment.
The results may include:
- Disclosable court outcomes (DCOs)
- Findings of guilt
- Good behaviour bonds
- Spent convictions (in certain cases)
- Pending charges (depending on relevance and legislation)
Checks are usually completed through:
- State or territory police services (e.g., Victoria Police, NSW Police)
- ACIC-accredited organisations offering online police checks
Why Employers Request Criminal History Checks
To Ensure a Safe and Trustworthy Workplace
Employers have a duty of care to ensure that their workplace is safe for all employees, clients, and the broader public. Hiring someone with a serious or relevant criminal background could pose risks to workplace safety, especially in sectors that deal with vulnerable populations.
Criminal history checks help employers:
- Prevent potential harm or misconduct
- Maintain a culture of integrity
- Reduce legal liabilities and insurance risks
To Meet Industry-Specific Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Certain roles and industries legally require a police check before employment can commence. These include:
- Aged care and disability support
- Childcare and education
- Healthcare and nursing
- Government and defence roles
- Financial services and banking
- Security and law enforcement
- Transport and aviation
In many of these sectors, compliance with state or federal legislation (such as the Aged Care Quality Standards or Working With Children Acts) makes a criminal background check compulsory.
To Assess Suitability for Roles of Trust or Responsibility
Even in industries without mandatory checks, employers may still require a police clearance for roles that involve:
- Handling sensitive or confidential information
- Managing finances or company assets
- Working unsupervised or offsite
- Entering private homes or customer premises
Employers want to minimise the risk of fraud, theft, or unethical conduct by verifying the background of candidates in high-trust positions.
How a Police Check Affects Job Applications
Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you won’t get the job. Employers are encouraged to consider:
- The nature and severity of the offence
- How long ago the offence occurred
- Whether the offence is relevant to the job duties
- Evidence of rehabilitation or good conduct since the offence
In some cases, a conviction may be “spent” under state or federal legislation, meaning it doesn’t appear on the police check unless the role involves working with vulnerable groups.
Transparency and honesty during the hiring process are key. If you know something may appear on your check, it’s often best to disclose it early and provide context.
How to Get a National Criminal History Check
If you’re applying for a job that requires one, your potential employer may organise the police check for you. Alternatively, you can apply independently through:
- Your local state or territory police
- An ACIC-accredited online provider (faster and usually digital)
The process typically involves:
- Providing 100 points of ID
- Completing an application form
- Paying a fee (usually between $45–$70)
- Receiving your results within 1–3 business days (online checks)
The certificate will be valid as of the date it was issued—employers may request a new one if the check is more than a few months old.
Privacy and Data Protection
Reputable providers follow strict privacy laws to ensure your information is secure. Your results will only be shared with the employer or organisation that requested it, and only for a legitimate purpose.
You always have the right to request a copy of your police check and to dispute any errors or inaccuracies.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, a National Criminal History Check has become a standard part of the hiring process across many industries in Australia. Far from being a barrier, it’s a tool to build trust, safety, and transparency in the workplace.
If you’re applying for jobs that involve responsibility, security, or public interaction, it’s wise to be prepared with an up-to-date police check. Understanding what employers are looking for—and why—can help you stay ahead and present yourself confidently during the recruitment process.
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