Do You Need a Police Check to Work in Aged Care?

Here's what you'll typically need, how to get it, and what to know if you're worried about a past record.

The checks you'll typically need

Exactly which checks apply depends on your role, your employer and your state or territory, but for most aged care roles expect some or all of:

• National Police Check (criminal history check) — the core requirement for aged care work.
• Worker screening — aged care providers must ensure workers are suitable; if your role also involves NDIS or disability work you'll likely need an NDIS Worker Screening Check.
• Working with Children Check (WWCC) — only if your role could involve people under 18 (less common in aged care, but some roles require it).
• Health and vaccination requirements — set by your employer (for example, seasonal flu).
• Right to work in Australia — citizenship, residency or an appropriate visa.

Your employer or training provider will tell you exactly which checks your role needs.

How to get a National Police Check

A National Police Check is quick and easy to arrange:

• Apply through an accredited provider or your state/territory police — many employers nominate or arrange one for you.
• Provide ID — you'll need identity documents to verify who you are.
• Wait for the result — many checks come back within days, though some take longer.
• Share it with your employer — some roles ask for a check renewed within a certain period.

Because processes and fees differ by provider and state, confirm the exact steps with your employer or the official provider before you apply.

What does a police check cost?

Fees vary by provider and state or territory, and in some cases an employer arranges and covers the check as part of onboarding. Check the current fee with the accredited provider or your employer rather than relying on a fixed figure.

Will a past record stop you working in aged care?

Not necessarily. A criminal record doesn't automatically rule you out of aged care — outcomes depend on the nature of the offence, how relevant it is to the role, how long ago it was, and the specific screening rules that apply. Decisions are made case by case against the relevant standards, not by a blanket rule.

If you're concerned about something on your record, the best step is to be upfront and seek guidance from the official screening body or the employer, rather than assuming the worst or hiding it. Honesty is always the right approach here.

This is general information, not legal advice — for how your individual circumstances would be assessed, contact the relevant screening authority.

How long do checks take, and do they expire?

• Timing: many National Police Checks return within a few days, but allow longer to be safe — start early so a pending check doesn't delay your start date.
• Renewal: some employers require a check completed within a recent period, or periodic re-checking. Keep your clearances current.

Getting your checks underway early is one of the smartest things you can do while you finish your qualification — see how to become an aged care worker for the full path, or, if you're just starting out, aged care jobs with no experience.

Frequently asked questions