The AFP conducted more than 870,000 National Police Checks as part of its role in protecting Australians and keeping Australia safe throughout the past financial year.
The AFP National Police Check Team assisted a large number of Australians, including businesses and individuals, who applied to the AFP to obtain a National Police Certificate (NPC) throughout 2022-2023.
There were more than 7.1 million National Police Checks processed in total across the country by police partner agencies during the past financial year.
The police check allows approved applicants to undertake certain recruitment and volunteering processes, citizenship and visa applications, along with clearance to work with children and vulnerable people.
The demand for national police checks conducted by the AFP and its accredited partners also increased, with about 878,710 national criminal checks undertaken and processed between 1 July, 2022 and 30 June, 2023. This figure is almost a 7 per cent increase compared to the year prior.
The AFP conducted national police check involves the reporting of information from Commonwealth law enforcement agencies, along with state and territory police services and law enforcement agencies, including local and interstate criminal and traffic court outcomes, outstanding warrants and pending charges.
The National Police Certificate is commonly required for the following:
- Recruitment and job applications
- Volunteer and not-for-profit positions
- Working with children or vulnerable groups
- Licensing or registration scheme applications
- Work-related checks due to legislation or regulations
- Australian citizenship and permanent residence applications
- Visa applications for some countries
- Working overseas.
AFP Business Service Manager Miles Humphrey said the AFP's National Police Check was one way the AFP ensured the protection of the Australian community.
"The National Police Check is one way the AFP, together with our state law enforcement partners, play a role in keeping Australians safe," said Mr Humphrey.
"The police check is essential for people who may be changing careers, travelling or residing overseas and working with children.
"These criminal record checks ensure there is trust and transparency in these processes which in turn protects the community and Australia."
