What is a National Police Clearance?

In Australia, a police clearance is known as a National Police Certificate (NPC). Some employers may require you to provide this certificate before offering you a job. The National Police Certificate details an individual’s criminal history, including past convictions, charges, and, in some cases, pending charges.

To obtain a National Police Certificate, you will need to apply through the police department in the state or territory where you reside. The police will conduct a search across national databases to compile the certificate. You can obtain the application form online or at Australia Post outlets. Once the form is completed, you must submit it at an Australia Post outlet along with 100 points of identification.

There is a fee for the National Police Certificate, typically around $60, though this may vary depending on the state or territory.

The processing time for the National Police Certificate is generally around 10 to 15 business days from the date of submission at Australia Post.

Australian Federal Police Check

In some cases, you may need to provide an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Certificate. Unlike state police checks, federal police checks are conducted by the Australian Federal Police and must be processed in Canberra. The fee for an individual application is approximately $42, with a higher fee of $99 or $139 for checks involving fingerprints.

When You Will Need an Australian Federal Police Check

You will only be required to obtain an Australian Federal Police Check if the following apply:

  • You are living in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
  • You are applying for a job with the Australian Government (note that most New Zealand citizens are not eligible to work for the Australian Government).
  • You are required to obtain a federal police check under Commonwealth legislation.
  • You are immigrating to Australia.
  • You are currently living in New Zealand and need an Australian check to verify that you did not commit any crimes while previously living in Australia.
  • You wish to adopt a child from overseas while living in Australia.

In most circumstances, an Australian Federal Police Check is not required.