An Australian police check, also known as a criminal history check or a National Police Certificate (NPC), typically provides information about an individual’s criminal history within the scope of the check.
What shows up on an Australian police check can include the following:
- Disclosable Court Outcomes: This category includes information about convictions, charges, court findings, and sentences. It may cover a range of offenses, including both summary and indictable offenses. This information is typically limited to the five-year period leading up to the date of the check, but it can vary by state or territory.
- Pending Court Matters: Any pending criminal charges or court matters may also be included on the police check. This information is current and reflects the status of ongoing legal proceedings.
- Good Behavior Bonds: In some cases, information about good behavior bonds, including any breaches, may be included in the police check.
- Traffic Offenses: Some traffic offenses may be included, particularly if they resulted in criminal charges or convictions. However, minor traffic infringements or fines are typically not included.
- Spent Convictions: In most states and territories, spent convictions do not appear on a standard police check. Spent convictions are older, less serious offenses that have met specific criteria for becoming “spent” and are generally not disclosed to employers or other parties.
- Juvenile Records: Generally, juvenile records are not included on a standard police check unless specific legal criteria are met for their disclosure.
It’s important to note that the level of detail and the specific types of information included in an Australian police check can vary by state and territory. Additionally, certain roles or organizations may require more comprehensive checks that delve deeper into an individual’s criminal history. The depth of the check can be influenced by factors such as the purpose of the check and the relevant legislation in the jurisdiction where it is conducted.
Keep in mind that the accuracy and completeness of a police check depend on the quality and timeliness of the information provided by law enforcement agencies. If you have specific questions about what will appear on your police check or require a police check for a particular purpose, it’s advisable to consult the police department or a recognized provider of police checks in your state or territory for guidance.