Ensuring safety and security is paramount, whether it’s in the neighborhoods, workplaces, or even online spaces. Police checks are crucial in maintaining this security by providing background information about individuals.
However, not all police checks are created equal. There are various types, each serving specific purposes and containing different levels of information. This article will show you the intricacies of these checks to understand their significance and implications.
What is a Police Check?
Simply said, a report detailing an individual’s disclosable convictions is what a police check—or, more specifically, an Australia-wide Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check—is all about. The report will detail how each individual has many “disclosable” convictions. Otherwise, it will indicate that no such convictions exist.
The court has officially documented these convictions. If privacy problems arise, the Criminal Law Act of 1986 and the Crimes Act 1914 state that police checks are for security reasons only.
An appropriate privacy policy should be in place to safeguard sensitive information by organizations that seek police data. Also, people may require police checks for a variety of reasons. For jobs, the former is by far the most prevalent. However, there are different types of police checks, each with its unique function.
Different Types of Police Checks
In Australia, there are three different types of police checks you should know about:
Standard ACIC Police Check
ACIC police check, commonly known as a standard police check or NCCHC, is a record check undertaken in all Australian states and territories. The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) carries out this background check. It compares your name with existing police records in Australia to find any information about your criminal history that is publically available, such as:
- Charges
- Convictions
- Good behavior bonds
- Traffic offenses
- Pending court matters
The primary usage of this sort of check is in the context of employment. To work for the Australian federal government or be subject to federal law, a regular background check isn’t acceptable.
Volunteer ACIC Police Check
Any citizen of Australia can get their criminal record checked with a simple volunteer police check, also known as a volunteer ACIC police check. This check is carried out by the same Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) that oversees standard police checks.
Also, this type of police check compares your name with existing Australian police records to uncover any information about your criminal history that is disclosed, such as:
- Convictions
- Charges
- Findings of guilt without conviction
- Traffic offenses
- Good behavior bonds
- Charges at the federal, state, or territorial level
It’s very much like a regular police check, with the possible exception that volunteers may not have to pay the full amount. To help organizations make sure their volunteers and the people they help are safe, the police have instituted a volunteer check.
AFP Check or National Police Check
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) does a nationwide police check, which compiles details on your criminal past from every state and territory in the nation. Employment and immigration frequently necessitate it. By comparing your name with current Australian police records, this check can reveal any information about your criminal history that is publicly available.
Know the Spectrum of Police Checks
Police checks indispensable tools for assessing people’s backgrounds and ensuring safety and security in various contexts. Whether it’s verifying employment eligibility, screening volunteers, or safeguarding vulnerable populations, selecting the appropriate type of police check is crucial.
By understanding the importance of police checks, you can decide and contribute to creating safer communities for all.
