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Working with Children Act 2005: Operational Review

The Victorian Government has conducted more than 637,000 Working with Children (WWC) Checks since the scheme’s introduction in April 2006.

The scheme aims to prevent people who may pose a risk to the safety of children from working or volunteering with them. The overwhelming response from Victorians to the WWC Check proves they are committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of the community, its children.

In 2009, a review of the Working with Children Act 2005 was undertaken to ensure the WWC Check is continuing to meet its aims of providing a safer community for children, while not overburdening those who are required to comply with it. Feedback was sought from members of the public and interested stakeholders.

The review identified a number of measures to improve the efficacy and clarity of the Act. These measures can be grouped into three categories: additional protections; streamlined administration; and better information sharing.

The Working with Children Amendment Bill 2010 was introduced into Parliament on 8 June 2010 and received Royal Assent on 24 August 2010. The Act came into operation on 25 August 2010.

The Act can be viewed under the Web Links and Legislation menu on the right hand side of this page.