Working with Children Check
A Working with Children Check (WWCC) is mandatory for all adults who coach, manage, or volunteer in direct contact with players at Fernhill Juniors.
The NSW Working with Children Check
The Working with Children Check (WWCC) is a NSW Government background check that assesses whether a person poses a risk to the safety of children. It is administered by the Office of the Children's Guardian under the Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012.
The check assesses a person's criminal record and workplace misconduct findings. A clearance is required before a person can undertake child-related work in NSW — including volunteering at a junior football club.
At Fernhill Junior Football Club, a current WWCC clearance is a non-negotiable requirement for any adult who has direct, unsupervised contact with players. No exceptions.
Does This Apply to Me?
You MUST Have a WWCC If You Are:
- A coach or assistant coach
- A team manager
- A committee member with player contact
- A canteen or gameday volunteer with unsupervised access to players
- Any adult regularly attending training or matches in an official club role
You Generally DON'T Need One If You Are:
- A parent or guardian watching your own child play
- A spectator with no official club role
- A player (children do not require a WWCC)
If you are unsure whether your role requires a WWCC, contact our MPIO or club Secretary before commencing.
Getting Your WWCC
Applying for a WWCC is straightforward and free for volunteers. Here is how to do it.
Step 1 — Apply Online
Go to the NSW Office of the Children's Guardian website and create an account. Select Volunteer when asked about your role — this makes the check free of charge.
Step 2 — Verify Your Identity
You will need to visit a Service NSW centre with original identity documents to complete your application. You will receive a WWCC number upon verification.
Step 3 — Provide to the Club
Once cleared, provide your WWCC number to our club Registrar or MPIO. We record it against your membership and verify it each season.
Important Details
- Valid for 5 years from the date of issue
- Monitored continuously — if your status changes, the club is notified
- Must be renewed before expiry to continue in your role
- An Interim Bar means you cannot work with children while your check is being assessed
If Your Check Is Refused
If you receive a Barred result, you cannot hold a child-related role at the club under any circumstances. This is a legal requirement and the club has no discretion in this matter. You may appeal directly to the Office of the Children's Guardian.
Questions About Your WWCC?
Contact our MPIO or Registrar if you have any questions about whether you need a check, how to apply, or how to provide your details to the club.