New Working with Children arrangements came into force in 2013 in NSW.

A couple of key points:

1.     FNSW Member Protection Declaration (MPD)

An MPD must be completed by all persons aged over 16 years who work or volunteer with children aged under 18 years. There are no exemptions. The MPD must be completed and returned to the our Branch.

2.   New Working with Children Check (WWC Number)

All persons in a new paid role working with children (u18) must have a WWC Number.

Since we are paid for refereeing and assessing, that means all of us.

Note: All new members or prospective members are required to have a WWC Number too.

 Q. Where can I get my WWC Number from?

WWC numbers are not issued by FNSW. Individuals need to apply on-line for a WWC Number.

https://wwccheck.ccyp.nsw.gov.au/Applicants/Application

Q. Do existing employees need a WWC number in 2014?

No, existing employees will not need a WWC number until 2015.

This means existing members.

Q. What is a Child Related Role?

Coaches, Managers, Assistant Coaches, Assistant Managers, Trainers, Referee coaches and Referee mentors and any other person working in a face-to-face role with children under 18 years of age.

We will all be referee mentors in some capacity through the season, so this applies to all of us. Mentoring is an integral part of our referee development.

Q. Who is exempt from the new Working with Children Check?

- Children under 18

- Referees - who only referee football games

- Referee Assessors

Given that we will all be referee mentors in some capacity, even though you may have otherwise fallen into one or more of the three exemption categories, you still need to complete the WWC check because of your role as a mentor.

 

Links to the online forms are on the Football NSW website under Member Protection (near the bottom left of the home page in small print)

The FNSW Member Protection Declaration Form must be returned with your application

You must also supply us with your WWC Number on your application form.

We are required to verify your WWC number and keep a record of our having done so.