Ruqayyah Snyder
If you need to apply for an Australian police check, you can do so online or by post. The application process requires you to provide proof of identity, usually in the form of three identity documents, including one photo ID. The names on your documents must match, and if they don't, you'll need to provide proof of a name change. You may also need to provide fingerprints, which can be done at your local police station. The cost of the application varies depending on the state and method of application, but it typically ranges from $56 to $62. Once your application is submitted, you can expect to receive your police check certificate within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the processing time. This certificate will contain information on any disclosable court outcomes and pending charges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application Methods | Online, By Post |
| Required Documents | Three identity documents, including one photo ID, Australian citizenship certificate, Australian passport |
| Payment Methods | Credit Card, Bank Cheque, Money Order |
| Cost | $56 |
| Processing Time | Digital certificates: a few days; Fingerprint checks: 15 working days |
| Certificate Validity | No period of validity; At the discretion of employers and organizations |
| Certificate Validity Period | Digital portal: 3 months; Hard copy: 3 months from the original date |
| Certificate Contents | Official record of any disclosable criminal history, including court outcomes and pending charges from all Australian police jurisdictions |
| Certificate Uses | Employment, Volunteering, Licensing, Immigration, Citizenship |
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What You'll Learn
Online vs. in-person application
Applying for an Australian police check online is a more convenient and faster option compared to in-person applications. Online applications can be submitted through the websites of the Australian Federal Police, state police agencies, or via the Australia Post platform, depending on the state and purpose of the check. The process typically involves filling out an online form, providing proof of identity, and making an online payment. Some online applications may also require fingerprint records, which can be obtained by visiting a local police station. One of the main advantages of applying online is the quick turnaround time, with certificates often delivered within minutes or a few days if no further investigation is required. Additionally, online applications offer flexibility, allowing applicants to complete the process from anywhere within Australia.
On the other hand, in-person applications are usually made at local police stations or through postal services. While this method may be more time-consuming, it is suitable for individuals who are unable to access or prefer not to use online services. In-person applications typically require completing and submitting physical forms, providing certified identification documents, and paying the applicable fees. Similar to online applications, fingerprint records may be requested as part of the process. Processing times for in-person applications can vary, with some taking up to 15 working days or longer, depending on the complexity of the check.
It is important to note that the requirements and procedures for obtaining an Australian police check may differ slightly between states and territories. Additionally, the type of police check needed may vary depending on the purpose, such as employment, volunteering, or licensing requirements. Therefore, it is recommended to check with the relevant authorities or organizations to determine the specific application process and ensure all necessary documentation is provided.
Regardless of the application method, applicants should carefully review their personal details and ensure the information provided is accurate. Any discrepancies or errors in the certificate should be reported immediately to initiate the necessary corrections. It is also worth mentioning that police checks have a specific purpose, and using the certificate for a different reason may not be appropriate.
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Required documents
To apply for an Australian police check, you will need to provide proof of identity documents. The number of documents you need to submit varies depending on the state or territory. For instance, in Victoria, you will need to provide three identity documents, including one photo ID. In Western Australia, you will need 100 points of identification.
The following are acceptable forms of identification:
- Birth certificate
- Australian citizenship certificate
- Australian passport
- Driver's licence
- Marriage certificate
- Change of name certificate
- Student ID
- Health care card
- Credit card
- Medicare card
If the name on your application is different from the name on any of your identity documents, you must provide proof of a name change.
If you are applying for a police check that includes a fingerprint check, you will need to get your fingerprints taken at your local police station. You will receive a letter by email advising you to book an appointment if this is the case.
You will also need to provide your date of birth and state the purpose of the police check on your application.
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Fingerprint check
If you need to include a fingerprint check with your application for an Australian police check, you must supply your original fingerprints. You can book a fingerprinting appointment online or contact your local police station to have your fingerprints taken. You will also need to pay a higher fee for your application. The standard fee for a National Police Certificate (NPC) is $56, but if you need to supply fingerprints as part of your application, the total cost is $113.
If you are applying for a police check from Victoria Police, you will need to bring your application form and certified identification documentation to the appointment when you have your fingerprints taken. You will also need to pay for your National Police and Fingerprint Records Check at the appointment. After your fingerprints have been taken and payment made, a Victoria Police employee will forward your application to the Public Enquiry Service for processing.
If you are applying for a police check from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), you will need to post the original of your fingerprints to them with your completed application. You will also need to send an official translation if your fingerprints are in a language other than English. You can also apply by post for an NPC from Victoria Police, in which case you will need to include the original of your fingerprints with your application.
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Payment methods
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
If you are applying for a police check through the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in the ACT, you can pay by bank cheque or money order, made out to the Australian Federal Police. The application fee is $56, and if you need to supply fingerprints, the total cost is $113.
Victoria
For a National Police Check in Victoria, you can pay by cheque or money order made payable to 'Victoria Police'. Cheques and bank drafts must be issued by an Australian financial institution. EFTPOS and cash are not accepted.
New South Wales
In New South Wales, you can apply for a National Police Check online via the Australian Federal Police website if you need a criminal record check for Australian citizenship, residency, or other purposes. While specific payment methods are not mentioned, the website mentions payment reference numbers, indicating that online payment methods are available.
Online Applications through Approved Service Providers
You can also apply for a police check certificate online through approved service providers like Australian National Character Check (ANCC). Payment methods for online applications include online banking, debit or credit card, and PayPal. Online banking options offer faster and easier transaction processing times. The ANCC application fee is $52.90 + GST, and an additional $9.50 is charged for a hard copy of the certificate.
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Certificate delivery
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) will send your National Police Certificate (NPC) via email if you applied online. You will receive your digital certificate within a few days, although some may take longer. If you applied by post, you will receive your certificate by post.
If you require a hard copy of your certificate, you can request one, and it will be sent to you by post. If you lose your certificate, you can download another from the digital portal for up to three months. If you need a new hard copy after this time, you will need to contact the AFP and request a reprint. They will issue reprints for three months from the original date; after this, you will need to submit a new application.
When you receive your certificate, check all your personal details. If there are any errors, you must report them immediately. If the error was due to incorrect information entered by you, you will need to submit and pay for a new application. If the error was due to the AFP, they will process a new application at their expense. If you believe any court outcomes on your certificate are incorrect or inaccurate, complete a Disputed Record form and attach any supporting documents.
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Frequently asked questions
You can apply for an Australian police check online or by post. To apply online, you will need to provide proof of identity documents, such as a birth certificate, Australian passport, or driver's license. You will also need to provide your name, date of birth, and fingerprint check. If you are applying by post, you will need to print and complete the application form and provide certified identification documentation.
The cost of an Australian police check varies depending on the state and method of application. For example, applying online through the Queensland Police Service or WA Police Force costs $42.85, while applying by post through the Australian Federal Police costs $56.
The processing time for an Australian police check depends on the method of application and whether any further investigation is required. Online applications can be delivered within minutes if submitted online and do not require further investigation. However, if further investigation is needed, the processing time can take up to 10 business days or longer in complex cases. Fingerprint checks can take at least 15 working days.
