Raising awareness of the blue card system in Doomadgee and Mornington Island

Representatives from the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian recently visited Doomadgee and Mornington Island to share information about the blue card system with community members and organisations.

The Commission held blue card information sessions at Doomadgee on 19 July and Mornington Island on 20­21 July.

Commission staff met with community service providers and individuals to discuss information about the blue card application process, what to do if the Commission requests further information or submissions, and what information or other supports are available to assist organisations and community members in meeting their blue card requirements.

Commissioner Elizabeth Fraser said more than 100 people attended the information sessions and barbeques and appreciated the opportunity to talk one­on­one with Commission staff about both general and specific blue card matters.

"Staff were able to take people through the application process and remind them of some important things they could do to make the process more efficient, including ensuring they had the right form and completed the form correctly, before submitting their application form to the Commission," she said.

Ms Fraser said the information sessions also provided an opportunity to promote the three different elements of the blue card system, which many people may not be aware of.

"While many people are familiar with the blue card system itself, it is important to be aware that the initial blue card screening conducted by the Commission is only the first component of a three-part system which considers past, present and future risks," she said.

"We also monitor all blue card holders and applicants to take action to protect children and young people if the person is charged with a concerning offence, and we mitigate future risk through the requirement for organisations providing child related services to develop and implement child and youth risk management strategies."

Commission representative Monisha Breay explaining the blue card system in Mornington Island at an information session

Last Updated: August 8, 2011

Print this page