Stricter Rules and Mandatory Training for Working with Children Checks
Worker Screening Amendment (Safety of Children) Bill 2025
Opposition BillLegislative Council
Legislative Assembly
Assent
Topics
background checks child protection child safety mandatory reporting public safety working with children
Introduced by: Georgie Crozier MLC (LIB)
Links to official parliament websites
Effects of this bill
If this bill passes, it means that:
The Justice Secretary may refuse, suspend, or revoke a Working with Children (WWC) clearance if they believe the person poses an unjustifiable risk to children.
VCAT reviews decisions to refuse or revoke clearances and must determine if the decision is appropriate based on child safety and the public interest.
The Justice Secretary must provide the personal details of all WWC clearance applicants and holders to the Chief Commissioner of Police for the Law Enforcement Assistance Program.
Applicants for WWC checks who intend to work with children for profit must provide evidence of training in Child Safe Standards and mandatory reporting.
All WWC check applicants must complete training on child sexual abuse and other forms of abuse.
Applicants for WWC checks must consent to the Justice Secretary making enquiries with the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and other regulatory bodies.
The Justice Secretary may use information from any person or source when determining Category B or C WWC applications.