How to Get a Working with Children Check (WWCC)

A Practical Guide for Provisional Psychologists

If you’re a provisional psychologist starting out in client work, there’s a strong chance you’ll need to hold a Working with Children Check (WWCC) or equivalent clearance. It’s a core compliance requirement across Australia for anyone working with children and young people.

This guide explains what it is, why it matters, and how to get it—without getting lost in the paperwork.

What is a Working with Children Check?

A Working with Children Check is a legal screening process designed to assess whether a person is suitable to work with children and young people.

It is more comprehensive than a police check and typically includes:

• National criminal history checks
• Child protection record screening
• Professional conduct information (in some cases)
• Ongoing monitoring while valid

Each state and territory manages its own system, so requirements and processes differ depending on where you work.

Do Provisional Psychologists Need One?

In most cases, yes.

You will generally need a WWCC (or equivalent) if you are:

• Working with clients under 18
• Completing placements or internships involving children or adolescents
• Working in schools, clinics, or community organisations
• Providing telehealth services to minors
• Undertaking a Provisional Psychologist Hub Supervision Scholarship 

Even if your caseload is mostly adults, many employers require it as a baseline safeguard.

Working with Children Check Links (All States & Territories)

You must apply in the state or territory where you are physically working.

Victoria

Working with Children Check Victoria
https://www.workingwithchildren.vic.gov.au

New South Wales

Office of the Children’s Guardian (WWCC NSW)
https://ocg.nsw.gov.au/working-with-children-check

Queensland

Blue Card Services
https://www.bluecard.qld.gov.au

Western Australia

Working with Children Screening Unit
https://workingwithchildren.wa.gov.au

South Australia

DHS Screening Unit (Working with Children Checks)
https://screening.sa.gov.au

Tasmania

Registration to Work with Vulnerable People (RWVP)
https://www.cbos.tas.gov.au/topics/licensing-and-registration/registration-to-work-with-vulnerable-people

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Working with Vulnerable People Registration
https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/s/article/working-with-vulnerable-people-wwvp-registration-tab-overview

Northern Territory

Ochre Card – Working with Children Clearance
https://nt.gov.au/emergency/community-safety/apply-for-a-ochre-card-working-with-children-clearance

Step 1: Choose the Correct System

You must apply in the jurisdiction where you are physically working. If you move states or work across multiple locations, you may need more than one clearance.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Most applications require:

• Identity documents (passport, driver licence, etc.)
• Proof of address
• Organisation/employer details (if applicable)
• Payment method (some states charge a fee)

Step 3: Complete the Application

Applications are completed online. You will:

1. Create an account
2. Enter personal details
3. Select employment type (employee/volunteer)
4. Link to your organisation if required
5. Submit identity verification
6. Pay the application fee (if applicable)

You’ll usually receive a reference number that may allow you to begin limited work while the application is processed (depending on jurisdiction and employer rules).

Step 4: Assessment Process

Authorities may conduct:

• Police record checks
• Child protection screenings
• Ongoing monitoring during validity

Processing times vary from a few days to several weeks.

Step 5: Receive Your Clearance

Once approved, you will receive your WWCC/VP clearance (card or number depending on the state).

Key points:

• Valid for several years (varies by state)
• Must be kept up to date
• Requires notification of changes in some jurisdictions
• Is continuously monitored

Interstate & Telehealth Considerations

If you work across multiple states or provide telehealth services, requirements can become more complex.

A general rule:

• You must comply with the state you are physically working in
• Additional clearances may be required depending on employer or service obligations

Always confirm requirements with your organisation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying in the wrong state
• Not linking your employer/organisation
• Confusing WWCC with a police check
• Leaving it too late before client work begins
• Not updating details after approval

Why It Matters

Beyond compliance, the WWCC/VP supports safe practice by:

• Protecting children and young people
• Supporting ethical professional standards
• Strengthening organisational accountability
• Ensuring eligibility for clinical roles

The Working with Children Check is one of the foundational steps in your early psychology career. While the process varies across Australia, it is generally straightforward once you know which system applies to you. Applying early and ensuring your details are correct from the start will save time and prevent delays in client work.