What to Look for in a Background-Checked Nanny

Jun 6
2 min read

Updated: Jun 7

When you hand your child to someone for the day, you want more than a friendly smile. Here are the checks and credentials every nanny should have, what each one means, and how to verify them.

Working with Children Check

The NSW Working with Children Check (WWCC) is a state-issued clearance and the single most important document a nanny working in Sydney can hold. Always ask to see the current card and verify the number online through the Office of the Children's Guardian. A WWCC is not optional.

National Police Check

A National Police Check provides a snapshot of any disclosable criminal history. It complements the WWCC, it does not replace it. Reputable agencies refresh this every two to three years.

First aid and CPR

Look for current HLTAID012 (Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting), the standard certification for those working with children. CPR (HLTAID009) should be renewed annually.

Reference checks

Two recent employers spoken to directly beat any document. Ask specific questions - Would you hire her again? How did she handle difficult days? Why did the role end? - rather than just confirming dates.

Qualifications

Formal qualifications are not mandatory, but a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care signals a real commitment to the work and a grounding in child development.

How a good agency screens

A good agency runs every check above, verifies documents, conducts in-person interviews, and only puts forward candidates who genuinely match your family. That is the value of using one - it removes the guesswork.

Every nanny placed by Nanny Nest has been fully screened. Get in touch to meet matched candidates.