Employment screening during the recruitment process can be a lengthy undertaking. From skills testing and contacting referees, to confirming the validity of licences and qualifications, these types of checks are an essential part of pre-employment. Choosing who to employ is an important decision for business owners and any safeguards that can be utilised to ensure the right person is hired, should be applied wherever possible.
National Police Checks (NPC) play a crucial role in the recruitment process for many employers. In most cases, an applicant is a complete stranger coming into the business so it’s important to mitigate any potential risk by gathering as much information as possible. By requesting a NPC, the identity of the applicant can be verified and confirmed, and any important police history which may be relevant to the position will be disclosed. This allows the employer to make an informed decision before hiring a candidate.
What is a National Police Check?
A NPC – or Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check – is a legal document coordinated by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and the accredited provider. It is a check conducted which declares the police history of an individual including previous convictions and any other information held in police records, at that particular moment in time. It can include details relating to charges, convictions, sentences, penalties, court appearances, traffic offences, court orders or findings of guilt without conviction.
Why is a National Police Check important?
When it comes to the pre-employment process, conducting a NPC is an effective way to create a safe working environment through the hiring of safe and trustworthy people. As a first step, a NPC serves to protect the business, existing employees, clients, consumers and any vulnerable groups such as children, elderly people or people who have a disability. Secondly, it can help to protect company assets and private information, as well as prevent cases of fraud or financial crimes.
Another primary purpose of a NPC is to verify that the person applying for a position is really who they say they are. The check requires identity documents and personal information from the applicant to validate their identity, as well as photo identification and a current photograph for cross referencing, assuring the employer that the applicant’s information is accurate and true.
Can I refuse a job application after a National Police Check?
If a NPC comes back that shows convictions that are directly related to the position, then the employer is entitled to review or withdraw any offer of employment made. For example, if a financial business looks to hiring an applicant and the NPC shows convictions for theft, fraud, or dishonesty, then there is a legitimate cause to deny the application. In some occupations, having a criminal conviction is prohibited.
Assess the risk
A NPC is an important part of a risk assessment for new employees. Every business will have its own measures and protocols in place to ensure a healthy and safe work environment; all of which are designed to reduce risk. When a business requires applicants to complete a NPC, it not only ensures the right person is hired, but it gives employers as much information as possible in order to make informed hiring decisions. This will help to protect the business from threats which can cause significant damage to the business and its people.
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