In Australia, you can apply for a criminal background check Victoria either through the local police department or by using an accredited third-party agency. InterCheck Australia is an accredited third-party agency.

1. Provide Identification: You’ll need to provide valid identification (e.g., driver’s licence, passport) to verify your identity.

1. Application Process: You’ll be required to complete an online form or paper application and pay a fee. 

1. Receive the Results: Results typically come in the form of a certificate that will indicate if there are any criminal records. This process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the provider and the depth of the search. InterCheck Australia’s certificates come via email.

A comprehensive national check can also be requested through the Australian Federal Police (AFP) or through accredited agencies. These checks will search all states and territories for criminal records.

A Victoria Police (VIC) check, which is commonly referred to as a police check in Victoria, Australia, typically provides details about an individual’s criminal history within the state. The term “Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check” or “NCCHC” is the formal, ACIC-approved name for a police check. Here’s what generally shows up on a VIC police check:

1. Criminal Convictions: Any recorded criminal convictions, including offences like theft, assault, fraud, or drug-related charges, will be included on the check. This includes both major and minor offences.
2. Pending Charges: If there are any unresolved charges or ongoing criminal proceedings against you, these may also be listed.
3. Sentencing Details: Your check can include information on any sentences or penalties, such as jail time, fines, or community service orders related to criminal offences.
4. Spent Convictions: In some cases, a “spent” conviction may be included, although it will generally not be disclosed in certain contexts, depending on the type of background check. “Spent” convictions are those that are considered no longer relevant after a certain period has passed, but this is subject to specific conditions and the type of employment for which the check is being performed.
5. Court Orders: Any orders issued by the court as part of a sentence, such as restraining orders or protection orders, may also show up in your records.
6. Summary Offences: For less serious crimes, such as traffic offenses or public nuisance charges, these may appear depending on the nature of the offence and the circumstances surrounding it.

Here’s what won’t appear on a VIC police check:

Traffic Offences: Unless they involve criminal charges or result in significant penalties (like a DUI), minor traffic violations typically don’t appear.

Arrests Without Conviction: If you were arrested but not convicted of a crime, the arrest itself usually doesn’t appear unless it led to a criminal conviction.

Spent Convictions: In most cases, spent convictions (after a set period) aren’t disclosed unless specifically requested under certain circumstances, such as for positions that require high security clearance.

The VIC police check will provide clear details about your criminal history, but the context and relevance of that history will depend on the position and organisation requiring the check.

In Australia, you can apply for a criminal background check either through the local police department or by using an accredited third-party agency. InterCheck Australia is an accredited third-party agency. Click here to get started

Yes, Australia does conduct background checks, and they’re commonly used in various sectors such as employment, immigration, volunteering, and more. In pre-employment screening, background checks are often required to verify your criminal history and ensure you’re suitable for the role or situation you’re applying for.