RefChecks is an Australian-built screening platform with deep local integrations and AI fraud detection. Certn is a Canadian-founded international platform that acquired CVCheck to bolt on Australian capabilities - a solid option, but one that lacks the Australian-specific depth of a purpose-built platform.
For most Australian employers, RefChecks offers the better combination of features, pricing, and fraud protection compared to Certn.
Features
| Feature | RefChecks | Certn |
|---|---|---|
| Reference Checks | Digital, with AI fraud detection and cross-referencing | Digital reference checks |
| ID Verification | DVS-based document verification | Global identity verification |
| Right to Work (VEVO) | Direct VEVO portal integration - no manual steps | Available but manual process |
| Financial / Credit Checks | ASIC directorship checks live; credit history & AFSA bankruptcy coming soon | Basic credit check available |
| Medical Screening | Partner clinic network integration with streamlined booking | |
| Psychometric Testing | Coming soon | |
| AI Fraud Detection | Cross-reference database catches inconsistent referee claims | |
| International Checks | Coming soon | Coverage across North America, UK, and APAC |
| ATS Integrations | Coming soon, starting with JobAdder and Manatal | API-based integrations and some native connectors |
| API Access | REST API with webhook support | Well-documented API with webhooks |
| Mining / Construction Certs | SOC, white card, and state-specific licence verification | |
| Candidate Portal | Branded portal for candidates and referees | Candidate experience portal with mobile support |
| Sanctions & PEP Screening | Coming soon | Global sanctions and watchlist screening via Certn compliance module |
| Continuous Monitoring | Managed re-screening on configurable schedules (VEVO, adverse media) |
Pricing
| Tier | RefChecks | Certn |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | Background checks priced per check; references included in your plan | From ~$30/check for basic packages |
| Professional | $7.00/check - volume pricing from 50+ checks/month | Custom pricing - volume discounts available |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing with dedicated account manager | Custom pricing for enterprise partners |
Analysis
Verdict
Certn is a well-funded international platform, and their acquisition of CVCheck gave them instant Australian market access. The candidate experience is polished and the API is solid.
But here's the thing: Certn's Australian capabilities are inherited from an acquisition, not built from the ground up. RefChecks was designed specifically for the Australian compliance landscape, and that shows in every feature. Fast VEVO checks that actually hit the portal without manual steps. A partner clinic integration that books medical appointments directly. Mining and construction certification verification for SOC, white cards, and state-specific licences. AI fraud detection that catches fabricated references. ASIC directorship lookups. Driving record checks. In-house health assessments. These aren't features you get from adapting a Canadian product for the Australian market.
Certn offers sanctions screening, which is coming soon on RefChecks. RefChecks goes further with continuous post-hire monitoring across VEVO and adverse media on fully configurable schedules: VEVO monthly, and adverse media quarterly. Certn has no equivalent ongoing monitoring capability, which means your compliance exposure grows over time with a Certn-only approach.
Then there's pricing. Certn's basic packages start around $30 per check. RefChecks includes references in your monthly plan and prices background checks per check, with no bundling or minimum commitments - a substantial difference for a mid-size recruiter.
Our recommendation: RefChecks is the stronger choice for Australian hiring teams. You get deeper local integrations, more screening types, AI fraud protection, continuous compliance monitoring, and dramatically better value. Choose Certn only if heavy North American screening is a core requirement for your business.
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