Along with over 88% of Australian organisations, much of the Employment Service industry has been adapting to a remote working model since the COVID-19 outbreak. This has surfaced unique challenges when trying to comply with the identity requirements of the National Police Checking (NPC) Service. We at CVCheck have been asked for support from those of you trying to remain compliant and substantiate identity while processing NPC’s remotely.
Firstly, it is important to highlight that your obligation to comply with the National Police Checking Service process as outlined by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) has not changed. You are still obligated to verify identity.
In 2018 the ACIC introduced new restrictions to the minimum proof of identity requirements to combat identity fraud, which is estimated to cost Australia upwards of $1.6 billion each year. As an active member of the Service, you play a key role in minimising the risks of identity theft to the Australian community, and are still required to complete the two-stage identity process as explained here.
So, how can you remain compliant?
- Use CVCheck’s ‘re-order’ functionality
You may be able to simply re-order an NPC if you have placed a direct order on the job seeker within the last 13 months. If this is the case, and you are satisfied as to their identity without the need to repeat the process of visually comparing their face to identity documents, then you can utilise our simple ‘re-order’ functionality.
- Collect documentation by email
You can collect scanned copies or photos of the identity documents via email and ask the job seeker to include a photo of themselves holding their own photo ID document. The job seekers face must be clearly visible in the photo and the ID they are holding, such as in the example here. You can then compare the two photos and confirm their consent to the NPC process by phone call.
- Verify identity via video meetings
By arranging a video call with the job seeker, you can view their identity documents, confirm they match the individual and confirm their consent to the NPC process all in one go. With this method, it is important ensure you are satisfied with the ID clarity and authenticity of the document they are showing you in that video meeting.
- Social distancing
We do understand that some of you working in the Employment Service industry are still required to arrange physical meetings when other options are not available. If using this method, please consider the safety of yourself and the job seeker and remember to abide by the social distancing rules wherever possible.
- Use CVCheck’s Managed Order process
In situations where the candidate can complete the order and upload the documents themselves, order the check via our Managed Order method. We will send the job seeker an email and a text requesting for them to log into CVCheck to be guided through the process to upload their ID and personal details before the check can be put into progress.
Anything else to consider?
Whichever method you use, it is important (for possible audit purposes) that you record the process you followed, what identity documents were provided and why you were fully satisfied as to the individual’s identity. If you choose a Managed Order process, CVCheck’s platform will record this information automatically.
If you need more information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
