The Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Act 2011 (WWVP Act)
will commence operation on 8 November 2012.
The WWVP Act introduces a requirement for people who have contact with
vulnerable people (children and vulnerable adults) in the course of engaging
in certain regulated activities or services to be registered with the Office
of Regulatory Services (ORS), Justice and Community Safety Directorate.
The WWVP Act establishes a staged approach for registration:
- In the first year of operation, all employees and volunteers who
provide regulated services to children will need to be registered.
- Employees and volunteers who provide regulated activities and
services to both children and adults will be required to be registered from
years two to six of the scheme's operation.
As part of the application process a risk assessment will be undertaken to
ensure the risk of harm to vulnerable people is reduced. The premise of
registration is that the past behaviour of an individual can provide an
indication of the possible future behaviour of that individual. Examples or
patterns of abusive or inappropriate behaviour can sometimes be evident in
information available for assessment, including an individual's criminal
history or employment history.
Where can I find out more information?
In April 2012 the ORS will commence public information sessions to engage
and inform peak industry bodies, stakeholders and the broader ACT community
about the requirements of the WWVP Act. The information sessions will be
held in various locations throughout the ACT. You can find out more
information about the sessions on the ORS website.
For a detailed overview, the WWVP legislation can be accessed on the ACT
Legislation Register:
www.legislation.act.gov.au/a/2011-44/default.asp or, via ORS:
Telephone: (02) 6207 3000
Web: www.ors.act.gov.au
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