Verifying WWCC Numbers: A Critical Step in Child-Safe Practice

In child-related work, safety begins with trust and trust must be backed by verification. The NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian has issued a clear reminder: a Working With Children Check (WWCC) number alone is not enough. It could be expired, barred, or even fabricated. The only way to ensure a WWCC number is valid is through official online verification.

The following article provides information on why verification matters, how to do it, and what it means for your organisation’s safeguarding responsibilities.

Why Verification Is Essential

A WWCC is a legal requirement for anyone working or volunteering in child-related roles. However, possession of a number doesn’t guarantee that the person is cleared to work with children. Risks include:

• Expired checks: The person may no longer be eligible.
• Barred status: The individual may have been prohibited due to serious concerns.
• Fake numbers: Fraudulent claims can bypass informal checks.

Without proper verification, organisations may unknowingly expose children to harm and breach legal obligations.

How to Verify WWCC Numbers

The NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian provides a secure online system for employers and coordinators to:

1. Register as a verifying organisation
2. Enter WWCC numbers and personal details
3. Receive instant confirmation of validity and status

This process ensures that every child-related worker or volunteer has a current, valid clearance. You can access the verification steps on the Office of the Children’s Guardian website.

What to Record

Once verified, organisations should maintain clear records of:

• Full name and date of birth
• WWCC number and expiry date
• Verification date and result
• Any follow-up actions (e.g., renewal reminders, barred notifications)

These records support compliance audits and demonstrate your commitment to child-safe practice.

Embedding Verification into Culture

Verification should be more than a checkbox—it should be part of your organisation’s safeguarding culture. Consider:

• Including WWCC verification in induction and onboarding
• Assigning a compliance lead to manage renewals and alerts
• Educating families and staff about the importance of WWCC checks

Legislative Updates

The Office of the Children’s Guardian has also introduced recent legislative changes to strengthen child safety protocols. Staying informed and proactive ensures your service remains compliant and protective.

Further Reading 

Working With Children Check In NSW