Changes to Working with Children Checks

Changes to Working with Children Checks

The Victorian Working with Children Check reforms came into effect on October 19, 2026. The changes introduce WWC Connect and mandatory child-safety training for people applying for or renewing a Working with Children Clearance.

WWC Connect is a new online service that strengthens the way organisations verify and manage people engaged in child-related work. Where the requirements apply, the school must:

• verify a person’s clearance or exemption before they begin child-related work;
• connect new staff members, volunteers and other workers to the school through WWC Connect;
• maintain accurate records when a person begins or finishes child-related work or changes their contact details; and
• receive notifications if a connected person’s clearance status changes.

People applying for a new WWC Check, renewing an existing clearance or changing from a volunteer to an employee clearance must now complete approximately 45 minutes of online child-safety training. The training covers appropriate conduct, recognising concerning behaviour and grooming risks, and responding when there are concerns about a child’s safety. Current clearance holders do not need to complete the training immediately, it will become a requirement when they next renew.

These reforms may mean the school contacts existing or prospective volunteers to confirm their details, verify their status or complete the connection process. We ask families to ensure their Working with Children Check information remains current and to provide requested details promptly when volunteering.

The changes provide another important layer of protection for children and strengthen our shared commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive school environment. Further information is available on the Victorian Government’s Working with Children Check reforms page.