Volunteer Checks
A volunteer check recognises the vital role of volunteers in not-for-profit and community groups. Offered at a reduced fee, it ensures these organisations aren't financially burdened. Misusing this check type risks undermining a valuable community service.
Volunteer Checks
A volunteer check is recognises not-for-profit, charitable, or volunteer service organisations that contribute to community safety. As such, the volunteer check is offered at a reduced fee.
Many community groups and not-for-profit organisations are entirely comprised of volunteers. Without these individuals, many essential services would be unavailable. To support this, the AuthNTick offers a lower-cost option for volunteer checks to reduce the financial burden on these individuals and their organisations.
However, misuse of this check type puts this important community benefit at risk. It is essential that volunteer checks are only used when the applicant:
- Freely holds the position or performs the role on a voluntary basis for the benefit of the community.
- Is not an employee, contractor, subcontractor, staff member, or officer of the organisation.
- Is not entitled to a salary or any entitlements or benefits associated with the role.
- Is a student undertaking a compulsory vocational placement required by an Australian academic institution or training course.
Please note that checks required for foster care are eligible for the volunteer check category.
Volunteer NCCHC Check - $22.72
A Volunteer Check offered at a reduced fee.
However, individuals in the following categories are not eligible for the volunteer check category:
- Job seekers participating in the Work for the Dole Scheme.
- Family Day Care providers, educators, assistants, or family members.
Important: It is your responsibility to ensure you are submitting requests for the correct check type.
A volunteer check is a way of recognising those not-for-profit, charitable or volunteer services organisations who contribute to community safety.
Who Qualifies for a Volunteer Check?
Not all students are eligible for a volunteer police check. The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) does not automatically classify students as volunteers unless specific conditions are met.
According to guidance from the Fair Work Ombudsman and the ACIC, students can access a volunteer police check only if they are undertaking a formal vocational placement as part of their course requirements.
To qualify for a volunteer Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check, the student placement must:
- It is a compulsory requirement of the course or study program
- Be unpaid with no entitlement to salary or benefits
- Be conducted under a formal agreement with the education provider
- Not resembling an employment relationship
❌ Not Eligible: Internship programs, work trials, or voluntary work outside a formal course are not considered vocational placements and do not qualify for volunteer checks.
Why This Matters for Students & Employers
Vocational placements are essential for helping students gain real-world experience and build job-ready skills. However, proper background screening is still required—even for unpaid roles to ensure the safety of workplaces, particularly in sensitive industries like healthcare, education, and aged care.
Applying for the correct check type is vital. Submitting under the wrong category can lead to delays or rejection.
How AuthNTick Helps with Volunteer Checks for Students
At AuthNTick, we simplify the police check process for students, training providers, and host organisations.
Here’s why people trust us:
We Know the Rules
Our team understands ACIC’s official requirements and ensures your check is submitted under the correct type volunteer or paid based on your placement arrangement.
Fast, Compliant Checks
We process applications quickly and in full compliance with national standards. You’ll avoid unnecessary delays caused by misclassification.
Support You Can Count On
Got questions? We offer real support from real people whether you're a student, employer, or education provider.
Tailored for Student Placements
We work closely with universities, TAFEs, and RTOs to handle bulk student placements efficiently and accurately.
Summary
If you’re a student on a compulsory unpaid placement, you may be eligible for a volunteer police check but only if you meet the ACIC’s criteria. Don’t risk applying under the wrong category.
