What a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) Means
When organisations or individuals need to assess a person’s criminal history in Australia, one commonly used method is a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC). This is a formal check of criminal records across states and territories via the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) framework in partnership with state/territory police services.
The purpose is to provide a verified certificate detailing whether someone has disclosable criminal outcomes such as convictions, charges, court appearances, or good‑behaviour bonds. For employers, volunteer organisations, licensing bodies, and others, this offers an extra measure of due diligence.
Why Use an Accredited Online Provider?
In recent years, background checks have shifted to online platforms that streamline the process. Trusted providers such as Intercheck offer online submission of personal details, identity verification, and direct connection with the national police checking system.
Benefits of using such providers include:
- Convenience: Submit ID, personal details, and payment online from home or office.
- Faster turnaround: Many results are returned quickly, though manual review may make some cases take longer.
- National recognition: Certificates are accepted across states and territories.
However, users should also be aware of limitations: an NCCHC is not the same as a state-based “Working with Children Check” or other licence‑specific vetting.
How the Process Works
Step-by-Step Overview
- Choosing the check – Select the appropriate type for paid work, volunteer roles, licensing, etc. The purpose matters.
- Submitting personal details and ID – Provide legal name, previous names, birth details, address history, and identity documents.
- Verification & consent – The platform verifies IDs and obtains consent for police record checking.
- Police checking – Data is submitted through the national police checking system. Matches are reviewed by relevant jurisdictions.
- Result issued – Certificates are received online. Most cases are quick, but some may take up to 10–15 business days, depending on complexity.
Turnaround & Validity
Turnaround depends on factors such as commonality of the name, need for manual review, and completeness of ID documents. The check is a point-in-time report; any offences after the check won’t appear. Organisations may set their own validity period for the certificate.
When and Why Organisations Use NCCHCs
Common Use Cases
- Hiring for roles of trust: Childcare, aged care, community services, and health care.
- Volunteer positions: Non-profit groups, sports clubs, and charities.
- Licensing and compliance: Financial services, trade licences, transport, gig economy roles.
- Renting or student placements: Some landlords or institutions may request checks as part of screening.
Key Benefits
- Reduces risk by providing verified information on an individual’s criminal history.
- Offers transparency for the person being checked.
- Streamlines hiring or onboarding processes when integrated with online platforms.
Things to Be Aware Of
- Not all offences are disclosed: Legislation on spent convictions and jurisdictional differences affect what appears.
- New offences won’t show: The check only covers up to the time it was run.
- Purpose matters: A check for one role might show different disclosures than for another.
- State-specific checks may still be needed: For example, “Working with Children” checks or NDIS Worker Screening may require separate checks.
Tips for Individuals and Organisations
For Individuals
- Ensure identity documents are up-to-date and match submitted information.
- Know the “purpose” declared; it impacts disclosure.
- Read certificates carefully; potential matches may require further review.
- Understand certificate validity and when a fresh check is needed.
For Organisations
- Clarify the level of check required and whether a specific type is needed for your sector.
- Integrate checks into onboarding to prevent delays.
- Handle personal data, disclosures, and privacy obligations responsibly.
- Set policies for how old a certificate can be before a re-check is required.
Looking Ahead: The Role of Technology and Compliance
Online platforms for criminal history checks are evolving with instant ID verification, real-time database linking, and automated workflows. For organisations, this means faster and more streamlined risk management. For individuals, it offers convenience but also greater responsibility for accuracy.
As regulation tightens in sectors like childcare, aged care, and community services, background checks remain a core element of compliance and trust. Understanding their nuances, coverage, and limitations is essential for anyone hiring, volunteering, or seeking licensing.
Conclusion
Background checks like the NCCHC are key tools in modern hiring, licensing, and volunteer screening. They provide a verified snapshot of a person’s criminal history, helping organisations make informed decisions and offering transparency to individuals. Their effectiveness depends on proper use, clarity around purpose, and ongoing compliance, making them an essential part of risk management and trust-building in Australia.
