National Police Check: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to obtain a criminal history record required for hospital credentialing in Australia.
A National Police Check is a formal way to access your criminal history record to prove your background.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically required for individuals who are undergoing hospital credentialing. If you are a healthcare professional or a staff member needing to verify your status to work within a hospital setting, you will likely need to obtain this check to satisfy those specific professional requirements.
What you get
Once the process is complete, you will receive a criminal history record. This document serves as official evidence of your past criminal history, providing the necessary clearance required by the institutions where you intend to work or volunteer. This is often referred to as an AFP check or a police clearance.
What it costs you
There is a fee associated with requesting this record. You should check the official portal for the current amount required to process your application. This fee covers the administrative costs of searching and generating your official criminal history record.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is the timeframe for validity. Even if you have a freshly completed check, many hospitals will not accept it if it is not recent. You should ensure your check is typically less than 3 months old by the time you submit it for hospital credentialing to avoid having to repeat the application process.
How to apply
- Access the official government portal to start your application.
- Provide the necessary identification details required to search your criminal history.
- Complete the application forms as instructed by the issuing body.
- Pay the required fee as specified on the application.
- Wait for the official record to be issued and sent to you.