The ACT Government sought community comment on a proposed background checking system for people working with vulnerable people in the ACT. The closing date for submissions was 12 October 2009.
The paper, A Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) Checking System for the ACT, is the first step towards the ACT Government’s commitment to reducing the risk of sexual, physical, emotional or financial harm or neglect of vulnerable people, through the establishment of mandatory minimum background checking standards. There is currently no consistent process for background checking in the ACT.
Centralisation of checking has benefits for organisations and individuals. Under the new WWVP Checking System, the ACT Government will set minimum and compulsory checking standards and will apply a consistent risk assessment framework and decision making process. For the first time in the ACT, registered employees and volunteers will be able to move between organisations without being rechecked.
Factsheets, copies of the discussion paper, access to an online forum and formal written stakeholder submissions are available below. A Consultation Report is now available.
If you would more information on this topic, please contact Mathew Munro, Policy Manager, ACT Department of Disability, Housing and Community Services on (02) 6205 8329 or email workingwithvulnerablepeople@act.gov.au or visit the DHCS webpage for Working with Vulnerable People Checks