If the applicant is or has been employed as a bookmakers clerk or bookmaker in another state or country, a clearance from the controlling body in that state or country should be submitted with the application.

How long does it take?
All applications for registration are considered by the Committee which meets on a regular basis. As a general guide, an application will be considered within 30 days of receipt.

Is there a registration fee payable?
There is no fee payable to the Committee. However there is a fee payable to the Victoria Police for a National Police Certificate.

Want to be part of it? You can by registering as a bookmakers clerk.

Apart from a small fee for a police background check, becoming a licensed bookmakers clerk is free, applications for certificates generally considered within a month.

Anyone aged over 18 - and in special family circumstances over 16 - can work for a bookmaker and the tasks of a clerk are varied and exciting.

Taking bets, paying winners and being a "runner" (taking bets to other bookies or the tote in order to lay off) are all part of a clerk's day at the races.

Computer skills are a necessary part of a clerk's lot these days but thanks to a number of specific bookmaking
programmes, computers are easy to use.

Approaching a bookmaker is the best way to go about becoming a clerk. Reliable staff are often in demand, especially during carnival time and it won't take you long to learn - the knowledge of the language of racing and betting that you already have is bound to place you in good stead.

REGISTRATION AS A BOOKMAKERS CLERK
From the
Bookmakers & Bookmakers Clerks
Registration Committee
PO Box 18055
Collins Street, East Melbourne Vic 3003

Who is eligible to apply for registration?
Applicants must but be at least 18 years of age and of good character.

What if I am under 18 years of age?
Applications from persons under 18 years of age will be considered by the Committee in circumstances where the applicant is working for a close relative such as a parent of sibling. The applicant must be at least 16 years of age and the application must be accompanied by a supporting letter from the nominating bookmaker, stating the bookmaker's relationship to the applicant and confirming the bookmaker's willingness to supervise the applicant. A clerk who is licensed in these circumstances is not permitted to act as a substitute bookmaker, or to perform bet back duties.

Is there an application form?
Yes. An application form for registration as a bookmakers clerk must be completed in full and submitted to the Committee. The form must be signed by the nominating bookmaker and accompanied by a current National Police Certificate. This form is available from the Office Of Racing of from the Sport and Recreation Victoria web site at:

www.sport.vic.gov.au

Do I need a certificate to work?
Yes, you will be issued with a certificate upon registration and you must carry this with you at all times whilst you are working as a bookmakers clerk on racecourses or sports grounds in Victoria.

Certificates are valid at racecourses throughout Victoria and they cover all racing codes. However, controlling bodies for codes/clubs may require certificate holders to also obtain a club or code permit.

Why do I need a National Police Certificate?
The Committee is committed to ensuring that all persons working as bookmakers and clerks meet appropriate probity standards and are of good character, suitable for being employed in the wagering industry.

The information contained in the National Police Certificate assists the Committee in this task, but is only one of the factors which the Committee takes into account when assessing an application. The Committee considers every application individually.

How do I obtain a NPC ?
A National Police Certificate is obtained by completing the consent and indemnity form attached to the application. This must be signed in front of an authorised person. Please note that a fee of $24 is payable to
the Victoria Police for obtaining a National Police Certificate. A cheque made out to the Victoria Police must accompany your completed application form.

What if I already have a NPC ?
If you have obtained a National Police Certificate within 12 months of the date of your application, the Committee will accept a copy of the certificate. If the National Police Certificate is older than 12 months, a
new certificate must be obtained and forwarded to the Committee.