FAQ

Answers for police checks, certificates and background screening

Find clear answers about AuthNTick checks, processing times, identity documents, result access, verification and support.

About AuthNTick

Who we are, what we offer and when AuthNTick can help.

Who is AuthNTick?

AuthNTick helps individuals, contractors, employees, job candidates and businesses complete background checks through a secure online workflow.

Our services support nationally coordinated criminal history checks, AFP checks, identity verification and broader screening needs, backed by Australian support.

What does AuthNTick offer?

AuthNTick provides online screening services for individuals and businesses that need fast, secure and compliant background checks.

  • Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Checks
  • AFP National Police Certificates
  • Volunteer criminal history checks
  • VEVO right-to-work checks
  • Identity, employment history, education and reference checks
Why choose AuthNTick?

AuthNTick keeps the application process online, clear and supported. Businesses can use AuthNTick to reduce onboarding friction, while applicants can complete checks from anywhere with guidance along the way.

  • Secure online applications
  • Competitive pricing for individuals and businesses
  • Australian support
  • Options for single checks or broader hiring workflows

National Police Checks

Common questions about NCCHC checks, identity documents and processing.

What is a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC)?

An NCCHC, often called a National Police Check, shows disclosable court outcomes and pending charges sourced from Australian police jurisdictions. The information released depends on the purpose of the check and relevant disclosure rules.

Is AuthNTick accredited for NCCHC checks?

Yes. AuthNTick is authorised to conduct Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Checks as an accredited provider. Accredited providers must meet strict legal, security and operational requirements.

Is an NCCHC different from one from police or the post office?

The NCCHC result is processed through the national checking system regardless of the accredited provider. The difference is usually the application experience, support, delivery options and workflow around the check.

How long does a National Police Check take?

Many checks are completed quickly, with around 70% completed within 24 hours. Some checks are referred to one or more police agencies for manual review and may take longer than 10 business days.

Processing time can vary because neither the applicant nor AuthNTick can predict whether a check will be referred.

What identity documents are needed?

Most NCCHC applications require four identity documents across required categories. At least one document must include a photo, or a certified passport-style photograph may be needed.

  • One commencement of identity document
  • One primary use in community document
  • Two secondary use in community documents
  • At least one document or certified photograph with a clear photo
How long is a National Police Check valid?

An NCCHC is a point-in-time check, meaning it reflects available police information on the date it was completed. AuthNTick results are available in the customer portal for three months from release.

The organisation requesting the check decides whether it will accept an older result based on its own risk and compliance requirements.

What information can appear in my result?

The result may show No Disclosable Court Outcomes or relevant Disclosable Court Outcomes, depending on police information, spent conviction rules and the purpose of the check.

  • Court convictions and penalties
  • Findings of guilt
  • Pending matters
  • Court appearances
  • Good behaviour bonds or other court orders
  • Other releasable police history information
Will interstate convictions appear on my certificate?

An NCCHC can include releasable court outcomes from all Australian states and territories, subject to each jurisdiction’s legislation and information release policies.

When can't I use a National Police Check?

Some purposes require a different check, such as an AFP National Police Certificate. Always follow the instructions from the requesting organisation.

  • Immigration or citizenship purposes
  • Some visa requirements
  • Commonwealth Government employment
  • Some IVF or specialised regulated purposes

AFP Checks And Result Status

Understanding AFP checks, referred results and progress updates.

What is the difference between an NCCHC and an AFP check?

An NCCHC is commonly used for employment, volunteering, licensing and other approved Australian purposes. An AFP National Police Certificate is often required for immigration, citizenship, overseas visa, Commonwealth employment and some specialist purposes.

If a requesting authority specifies AFP, apply for an AFP check rather than an NCCHC.

What does 'referred' mean?

Referred means the check has been sent to one or more police agencies for manual review. This can happen when details are similar to information in police systems and does not automatically mean the applicant has a criminal history.

How long will my check be 'referred' for?

There is no fixed timeframe for a referred check because each case depends on the police agencies involved and the details being reviewed. Some referred checks are finalised within a few business days; others may take longer than 10 business days.

Can I contact AuthNTick to check progress?

You can check status through your AuthNTick dashboard or contact support with your ATN reference number. This helps the team locate your check quickly.

Can I speed up the process?

Police agency review cannot be expedited by AuthNTick. We monitor updates during business days and notify you when your result is available or when additional information is needed.

Can I dispute my check result?

Yes. If you believe your result is incorrect, you can raise a dispute through your AuthNTick dashboard and provide supporting information. The result can then be reviewed through the relevant process.

Results And Access

Downloading, sharing, verifying and resuming checks.

How long will my result be available?

Your result is available in your AuthNTick dashboard for three months from the release date. During that time you can download or print a copy for your records.

Will you send me a physical copy?

Where physical delivery is available for the relevant product, select the email and post option during purchase. Delivery options can vary by check type.

What if I don't have a webcam to upload ID?

You can upload clear photos or scans of your identity documents in supported formats. If you are stuck, contact AuthNTick support for help.

How do I share my result?

Use the share option in your AuthNTick dashboard where available. Only share your result with organisations or people who have a legitimate reason to receive it.

How do I verify an NCCHC certificate?

Use the AuthNTick verification page and enter the required requester details plus the applicant ATN reference number. If no match is found, check the reference number and contact support if needed.

How do I resume an unfinished check?

Look for the AuthNTick email with the subject Access AuthNTick Check or the SMS sent to your registered mobile number. If you cannot find either, use the resume check page to request a fresh secure link.

Billing, Charges And Complaints

Policies for cancellations, additional fees and complaint handling.

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Nothing in AuthNTick’s policy limits rights available under Australian Consumer Law. Once an order is submitted, processing may begin and third-party or operational costs may be incurred.

If a check has not commenced, you may be eligible for a refund less reasonable administrative costs. If a check is already in progress, refunds may not be available unless required by law or exceptional circumstances apply.

When might an additional charge apply?

Additional charges are uncommon, but they may apply if a third-party source imposes a non-routine fee to retrieve required information. AuthNTick will advise you before proceeding with any additional charge.

How do I make a complaint?

If you are dissatisfied with an AuthNTick product or service, contact us with your full name, contact details, a description of the issue and any supporting documents.

You can call 1300 288 468 or email complaints@authntick.com.au.

Still need help?

Tell us what your check is for and we’ll point you in the right direction.