Working With Children Checks
Every MSA leader holds a valid WWC check. Learn about our screening process and commitment to child safety.
Your Children's Safety Is Our Priority
At MSA Youth Academy, the safety of every child in our care is non-negotiable. We recognise that when you entrust your children to us, you're placing an amanah (sacred trust) in our hands — and we take that responsibility with the seriousness it deserves.
One of the foundational pillars of our child safety framework is the Working With Children (WWC) Check — a mandatory screening process administered by the NSW Office of the Children's Guardian. Every adult who serves in any leadership or volunteer capacity at MSA must hold a current, verified WWC clearance.
What Is a Working With Children Check?
A Working With Children Check is a mandatory screening requirement under the Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012 (NSW). It applies to anyone in NSW who works or volunteers in child-related roles — including youth organisations like MSA.
The check is more comprehensive than a standard police check. It examines national criminal history records, relevant apprehended violence orders, disciplinary proceedings, and findings from workplace misconduct investigations. Importantly, it includes ongoing monitoring — so if new relevant information emerges at any point during the five-year clearance period, the Office of the Children's Guardian is notified and can reassess or revoke the clearance.
How the WWC Check Process Works
Application
All prospective leaders apply for a WWC check through the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian. Volunteer checks are free of charge. The application includes providing personal identification and consent to a background check.
Background Screening
The Office of the Children’s Guardian reviews national criminal history records, relevant apprehended violence orders, and findings of misconduct from workplace investigations. This screening covers records from across all Australian states and territories.
Clearance Issued
If cleared, the applicant receives a WWC number and clearance card valid for five years. This confirms they have been assessed as safe to work with children in NSW. If a risk is identified, the application is either barred or subject to an interim bar.
Ongoing Monitoring
WWC clearances are not “set and forget.” The Office of the Children’s Guardian conducts continuous monitoring throughout the five-year period. If new relevant records appear, the clearance is reassessed — and may be revoked at any time.
How MSA Enforces WWC Requirements
Mandatory for All Leaders
Every MSA leader — whether a Group Leader, Assistant Group Leader, Coordinator, or session volunteer — must hold a valid WWC clearance before they can participate in any activity involving young people. No exceptions.
Verification Before Service
MSA independently verifies every leader’s WWC number through the Office of the Children’s Guardian’s online verification system. We confirm the clearance is current and valid before any leader begins their role.
Expiry Tracking & Renewal
We maintain a register of all leader WWC clearances and proactively track expiry dates. Leaders are reminded well in advance to renew, and any leader whose clearance lapses is stood down from duties until a new clearance is confirmed.
Centralised Record Keeping
All WWC records are stored securely and confidentially by our administration team. This register is maintained in compliance with NSW privacy legislation and is available for audit by the Office of the Children’s Guardian if required.
WWC Checks Are One Layer of Protection
While the WWC check is an essential screening tool, no single measure can guarantee absolute safety. That's why MSA employs a multi-layered child safety framework that includes:
- A comprehensive Code of Conduct signed by every leader
- Mandatory safeguarding and child protection training
- Strict supervision ratios and never-alone policies
- Clear reporting procedures for concerns
- Regular leadership reviews and accountability
- An open-door culture where parents are always welcome
What This Means for Your Family
Every Leader Is Screened
No adult participates in MSA sessions or activities without a verified, current WWC clearance. This is a non-negotiable policy enforced at every level of our organisation.
Government-Backed Process
The WWC check is administered by the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian — an independent government body dedicated to child safety. It’s not a self-assessment; it’s an independent, rigorous screening process.
Continuous Monitoring
Unlike a one-time police check, the WWC system continuously monitors cleared individuals throughout the five-year period. If new concerns arise, clearances can be revoked immediately.
Part of a Broader Framework
WWC checks are one layer of MSA’s comprehensive child safety framework. We also enforce a strict Code of Conduct, mandatory safeguarding training, supervision ratios, and clear reporting procedures.
How to Apply for a WWC Check
If you're interested in volunteering with MSA and don't yet hold a WWC clearance, applying is straightforward:
- Visit the NSW Office of the Children's Guardian website at ocg.nsw.gov.au
- Select "Apply for a WWC Check" and choose the volunteer category (free of charge)
- Complete the online application and verify your identity at a Service NSW centre
- Receive your WWC clearance number (usually within a few weeks)
- Provide your WWC number to MSA's administration team for verification
Our admin team is happy to guide you through the process. Simply reach out and we'll walk you through each step.
"Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock." — Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family)
MSA Youth Academy Australia Inc. · ABN: 38 692 380 242