Working with Children Card (WA)

Verification portals are run by each state and territory. The state-by-state table on this page shows the official issuer and the verification URL for every Australian WWCC. You can also ask the staff member to provide a copy of the card or printout and confirm the expiry date in the NovoCove staff record.

Processing times vary by state and the individual's circumstances. Most Working with Children Checks are issued within a few business days once the application, identity documents, and any required checks are complete. Some states (for example Victoria) issue an interim letter so the person can start work while the card is finalised — check the issuer for the current turnaround.

An expired WWCC means the person is no longer authorised to engage in child-related work. Most states treat working with an expired check as a breach of the relevant child-safe legislation, and services can face enforcement action. NovoCove sends 7-tier expiry alerts (at 90, 60, 30, 14, 7, 1, and 0 days before expiry) so renewals never slip.

Employers cannot run a private background check as a substitute for a WWCC. They can use the state or territory verification portal linked on this page to confirm the check is current and valid, request a copy of the card or printout from the staff member, and keep a record of the verification in their compliance system. NovoCove stores the certificate and verification evidence in the staff record for audit.

3 years from the date of issue. You should apply for renewal before expiry — the Department recommends applying at least 6 weeks before your card expires.

Yes. WA's Working with Children Act 2004 includes ongoing monitoring — your card can be suspended or revoked if new relevant information comes to light.

There is no application fee for the WA Working with Children Card. Some related screening checks (such as the National Police Certificate) may have a fee.