National continuous checking system to support national WWCC reform

The Australian Government has announced an investment of $37 million over five years to support the national reform of the Working with Children Check (WWCC) system. The funding will underpin the development of a national framework named the National Continuous Checking Capability (NCCC), which is designed to provide continuous, near‑real‑time monitoring of criminal‑history information for WWCC holders. 

• A pilot rollout of the NCCC commencing late 2025 across states and territories. 
• Mutual recognition of negative WWCC decisions: five jurisdictions have already implemented this, with three more committing legislation in 2025.
• Alignment of risk‑assessment frameworks across jurisdictions, plus improved information‑sharing pathways between jurisdictions. 

• A more consistent national WWCC regime may reduce jurisdictional complexity and administrative burden for multi‑state operators.
• The NCCC system will enable faster updates of relevant worker‑screening information, which supports risk management and compliance obligations under the Education and Care Services National Regulations (specifically under Regulation 168(2)(e) relating to suitability of staff).
• Services should plan for potential changes in screening, workforce onboarding and inter‑jurisdictional recognition of check outcomes.