Australian Sailing has recently reviewed and updated the process for handling Working with Children Checks (WWCC) and First Aid (FA) certification. These updates clarify existing requirements, ensuring compliance with state/territory regulations and best practice risk management. 

What's Changed?

• Instructors and coaches no longer need to upload WWCC or FA certificates to their Australian Sailing profile. 

What Hasn't Changed?

• Instructors and coaches must still hold up-to-date WWCC and FA certificates. This has always been a requirement under risk management best practices and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for DSCs and clubs. WWCC compliance is also a legal obligation under state and territory laws. 
• Clubs and DSCs must continue to maintain records of instructor and coach qualifications, including WWCC, FA, state boat licences, VHF radio certifications, club-specific inductions, and any other role-specific requirements. 

Why the Change?

• WWCC requirements are governed by state laws, so AS cannot verify them nationally. Clubs and DSCs are responsible for verifying and maintaining records of WWCC. This has always been the responsibility of the DSC or Club. 
• FA certification has always been part of good risk management practices. This update does not change that—clubs and DSCs must continue maintaining records to support risk mitigation strategies. 

What You Need to Do as an Instructor or Coach

1. Ensure your current WWCC and FA certifications are provided to your DSC or club. This has always been a requirement. 
2. Renew your WWCC and FA certifications as needed and provide updated details to your DSC or club. 
3. Contact your relevant state/territory government agency for any WWCC-related inquiries. 

What This Means for your DSC/Club

• Clubs and DSCs have always been responsible for verifying and maintaining records of required certificates and accreditations. This process remains unchanged. 
• The DSC annual review process continues and ensures that accurate records are kept of instructors’ accreditation and certification and that they remain up to date. 
• Clubs and DSCs should regularly review and implement risk management strategies, including conducting risk assessments and ensuring appropriate safety measures are in place for all activities. 

These updates simply clarify existing requirements. There are no new obligations or duties for DSCs or clubs. 

More Information

• You can learn more about the WWCC requirements in your state or territory by visiting the Integrity Hub here 
• You can learn more about Instructor requirements by visiting the training Hub here 
• You can contact your local Club Support Staff here