Parents and guardians are being urged to validate the Working with Children’s Check (WWC) of self-employed entertainers before booking them for parties as part of a Department of Communities Working with Children Screening Unit education campaign.
The Department today launched the ‘Have you checked?’ campaign, highlighting the need to sight and validate WWC Check Cards.
Child Protection Minister Jessica Stojkovski said quick and easy online validation can help give peace of mind to parents planning parties.
“Protecting children is always our priority and Working with Children Checks are an important screening tool that can help to do that,” said Minister Stojkovski.
“As a parent, I understand the stress and chaos which often comes with organising children’s parties. It’s very easy to forget a simple thing like checking the party entertainer you’re hiring has a valid Working with Children Card.
“That’s why we are asking parents and guardians the question, ‘Have you checked’? using our fast and easy online validation. We want to empower parents to feel confident in asking simple questions that can help to keep their kids safe.”Â
Both individuals and organisations have obligations under the Working with Children (Screening) Act 2004 with eligible individuals required to maintain a valid WWC Check while engaging in child-related work.
Individuals or organisations that knowingly breach the Act may face penalties of up to $60,000 and five years’ imprisonment.
The Department of Communities encourages anyone who suspects an individual is engaging in child-related work without a current WWC Check to report their concerns to the WWC Screening Unit.
More details about the ‘Have you checked?’ campaign can be found on the Department of Communities website at Working with Children Check – Have you checked?
Parents and guardians can find out more information on the parent webpage or by attending an online information session on 11 June.
