Parents entrusting their children’s progress and personal care into the hands of someone else is a major decision that demands a thorough evaluation of any caregiver.
One of the most important steps when hiring a nanny in Sydney is to perform background checks to ensure that child safety is a priority.
Even if you’re working with a nanny agency, you must conduct safety checks such as a Working with Children Check and a National Police Check as part of your background checks on nanny candidates.
Understanding Background Checks
A background check is a more involved process than just following up on references from previous work experience.
Safety and Legal Checks
It is a legal requirement for every caregiver to have a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC), Working With Vulnerable People (WWVP) or Blue Card before caring for children in Australia, and it must be registered in the State or Territory that they’re providing care.
Furthermore, a National Police Check reviews their criminal history and whether they have any criminal offences or pending charges.
Training and experience Verification
A solid background screening also includes reference checks and reviews from previous employers, as well as verification of their certifications such as first aid certification, qualifications and identity documents.
These background checks are all essential to ensure that your nannying candidates are experienced, qualified and suitable for child-related work by meeting all legal requirements.
Contact your State or Territory Government agency
Every State and Territory has a dedicated Government Agency for the protection of children. You should always contact your relevant agency to fully understand your requirements and the resources that are available to you.
Why You Should Do Background Checks on Your Nanny in Sydney
Background checks reassure you that your nanny is an experienced and qualified individual who has a clean record, highlighting the safety of your children in their care.
Child Safety
A thorough background check reveals any past criminal history or misconduct of a person, ensuring that you do not hire unsuitable candidates to care for your children.
If parents are hiring nannies independently, it is their responsibility as the employer to verify all background checks.
Verification of Credentials
Verifying a nanny’s employment history, first aid certification and claims of early childhood education training assures you that they are properly equipped for child care.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have a verified nanny that has undergone all necessary background and reference checks, Children’s Checks and Police Checks helps to bring peace of mind and eases anxiety.
Reference Checks
Feedback from previous employers is vital to reveal how the nanny candidate interacts with children, how they perform household tasks and whether their personality is suitable for your needs.
What Types of Background Checks are Important as Part of the Employment Contract
The following background checks are essential before hiring a nanny in Sydney:
Working With Children’s Check
It is a legal requirement for every caregiver to have a valid WWCC, WWVP or Blue Card before caring for children in Australia, and it must be registered in the State or Territory that they are providing care.
Driving Records and Driver’s Licence
Often parents require their nannies to transport children to school, play dates and extra curricular activities. Parents must ensure their nanny has a valid drivers license and clean driving record to ensure their children’s safety.
Criminal Records
As a parent, you need the assurance that your nanny has no past criminal offences or pending criminal charges. Requesting national police checks and confirming their status is essential for anyone working with children.
Nanny Jobs, Employment History and Notice Period
As part of their reference checks, parents must contact previous employers and enquire about nanny jobs, their employment contract and notice period with the nanny’s reason for leaving. Understanding the nannies’ history in previous child-related employment helps to assess their suitability for paid work in caring for your children.
Identity Verification
It is imperative to confirm your nannies identity and qualifications using documentation and references from government agencies and previous employers.
Education and Training for Nanny Job Opportunities
Before hiring a nanny in Sydney, ensure that they have the necessary qualifications and experience in early childhood education. Education and experience as a nanny play a vital role in your child’s progress and well-being. Additionally, your nanny should hold an up-to-date First Aid Certificate.
Working With Children Check for Any Child-Related Work
A Working With Children Check is a legal requirement as part of your background checks when hiring a nanny in Sydney.
What is a Working with Children Check?
A Working With Children Check (WWCC), or Blue Card as known in Queensland and Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) in the ACT, is an essential type of background check for any child related work.
The Working with Children Check normally includes a full criminal history check and any findings of misconduct by a relevant entity.
The Working with Children Check is a legal requirement for any caregiver before engaging in child related employment.
Background Checks: Ensure Child Safety Before Hiring a Nanny in Sydney for Child Care
Ultimately, background checks are a legal requirement for all nannies and caregivers working in childcare.
If you are hiring a nanny, babysitter or au pair, you must verify their WWCC, WWVP or Blue Card details, and all qualifications, certifications and work history.
