How Long Does a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) Take?
Wondering how long an NCCHC takes? Here's what to expect
If you’ve ever applied for a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) in Australia, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How long will this take?” Knowing the expected processing time can help you plan and avoid unnecessary stress, whether you need a background check for a new job, volunteering, licensing, or another reason.
At AuthNTick, we strive to process checks efficiently while ensuring accuracy and compliance with national security protocols. So, how long should you expect to wait? Let’s dive in!
How Long Does an NCCHC Usually Take?
The majority of checks, approximately 80%, are completed on the same day as submission, with over 70% of results returned within minutes.
However, around 20% of checks are referred to one or more police agencies for manual processing. These may take longer than 10 business days to be completed, depending on the complexity of the police records involved.
- 70% of checks are completed within one business day.
- Most remaining checks are finalised within 10 business days.
- A small percentage (approximately 5%) may take longer than 20 business days.
For most people, it’s a quick and easy process. But if your check takes longer, there’s usually a reason behind it.
How long is a check valid for?
Your Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) results represent a point-in-time snapshot, meaning they reflect police records only as of the date the check was conducted. For this reason, results are available on the AuthNTick platform for 3 months from the date of release.
It is the responsibility of employers to determine whether an NCCHC is considered 'valid' for their purposes. This decision should be made within their risk management framework and based on individual assessment.
Can I reuse my NCCHC for another position?
No. If an applicant requires the NCCHC for a different position, entitlement or employer, then the previous result should not be used.
An NCCHC is a point-in-time check and may not reflect any new offences that have occurred since the original check was submitted. Additionally, if the purpose of the check changes—such as from employment to probity—this can influence the disclosure decisions made by police agencies. As a result, the information released may differ even for roles within the same organisation or industry.
Why Do Some Background Checks Take Longer?
If your NCCHC is delayed, don’t panic! Several factors can impact processing times. Here are the most common reasons:
- Name Matching & Extra Verification
If your name and date of birth closely match someone with a criminal history, your check may be flagged for additional review. This doesn’t mean you have a record—it just means the police must verify the information.
- Cross-Jurisdictional Data Sharing
The NCCHC process involves retrieving records from police agencies across Australia. Transferring information between different states or territories can add extra processing time.
- High Demand Periods
Background check applications surge during peak hiring seasons (like the end of the year or major event periods). This increased volume can lead to longer wait times.
- Errors or Missing Information
Mistakes happen! Incorrect personal details, misspelled names, or missing documents can cause delays. Double-checking your application before submission can help prevent unnecessary hold-ups.
- Manual vs. Automated Processing
Some applications are processed automatically in minutes, while others require manual verification by police agencies. If your check falls into the manual category, expect it to take anywhere from 2 to 10 working days or in rare cases, more than 20 business days.
How to Speed Up Your NCCHC Processing Time
Want to avoid delays? Here are a few simple steps to help your background check go through smoothly:
- Check your details carefully. Ensure your name, date of birth, and ID documents are accurate and match official records.
- Submit all required documents upfront. Incomplete applications are a significant cause of delays.
- Use an accredited provider. Applying through a trusted service like AuthNTick ensures your application is handled efficiently.
- Apply early. If your check is for employment, licensing, or another time-sensitive reason, don’t wait until the last minute!
Does a Delay Mean You Have a Criminal Record?
Not necessarily! A delay does not mean there’s a criminal record associated with your name. It simply means that additional verification is needed. ACIC and police agencies follow strict procedures to ensure accuracy before disclosing any information.
Get Your NCCHC with AuthNTick – Fast, Secure & Reliable!
At AuthNTick, we make background checks simple, secure, and hassle-free. Our streamlined process ensures your application is handled quickly and accurately, with complete transparency throughout.
So, if you need an NCCHC, don’t wait!
National Coordinated Criminal History Check
Used to assess criminal history for employment and compliance purposes
Understanding the process and potential delays allows you to stay ahead of the game and avoid last-minute surprises. If you have any questions about your application status, our team is here to help!
