Currently, only New Zealand convictions are considered in safety checking. 

From 24 October 2026, overseas convictions will need to be identified and considered for all new core children’s workers. 

By 24 April 2027, overseas convictions will need to be identified and considered for all existing core children’s workers. 

More offences to be considered#

On 24 October, offences from the Prostitution Reform Act 2003 will be added to Schedule 2 of the Children’s Act. These will now need to be identified and considered for existing and new core children’s workers.

What it means for schools and early learning services#

For certificated teachers, the Teaching Council would have assessed any overseas criminal history. Teachers with relevant convictions are not certificated unless they have obtained a core worker exemption. The New Zealand Police Vetting Service will advise employers if existing core workers who have been vetted previously have been convicted of any of the newly-added offences.

For non-certificated staff, employers must take reasonable steps to make sure they do not employ anyone who has been convicted of a Schedule 2 offence or an equivalent overseas conviction, unless the person has obtained a core worker exemption. This is an important requirement to reduce the risk of harm to children. 

Any person with a relevant conviction can seek a core worker exemption to work as a core children’s worker.

Safety checking for education core children’s workers

Why the change was introduced#

The change was introduced as part of the Government’s response to the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry. The Responding to Abuse in Care Legislation Amendment Act 2025 amends the Children’s Act 2014 and establishes these new requirements.