Child Safety Information
Townsville Junior Touch Football is dedicated to providing a safe environment for all our young participants, and we take this very seriously!
Under Queensland Government laws, volunteers that work with children are required to possess a current/active "Working With Children check" through the QLD Governments Blue Card Services department.
In general, you will be required to hold a current Blue Card if you are involved in junior sport, but there are some exemptions to this requirement.
Please note: you may occasionally find that some of the links to external websites found on this page may be out-of-date due to the everchanging nature of the rules and legislation around child safety. If you find that a link is out-of-date, please use the 'Feedback' tab on the right-hand side of this website to let us know, and always refer to the QLD Governments Blue Card Services website - https://bluecard.qld.gov.au - for the most up-to-date information.
NO CARD, NO START!
On 12 June 2018, the Queensland Government announced that they will provide additional funding over the next three years to further strengthen the blue card system by introducing a "No Card, No Start" approach. This means that all people working with children will require a Blue Card before they can start child-related work.
FAQ
Please note that the following questions and answers are subject to change, and clarification should be directed to your club or QLD Government's Blue Card Services.
Q: I have a Blue Card from another sport or club, is this valid for every association/club?
A: The short answer is no. You don't need to apply for a new card, but your club will will need to "link" your existing card.
More information can be found here.
Q: I am coaching my child's team, do I still need a Blue Card?
A: No. The current laws allow for parents providing the same service that your child is participating in to be exempt from holding a Blue Card for that purpose, i.e. because you are coaching your child's team then you do not need a Blue Card.
Q: I am refereeing in a junior competition, do I need a Blue Card?
A: Yes, if you are 18+ years of age.
Q: I am turning 18 this year, when do I need to apply for a Blue Card?
A: If you are working with children, you will need to hold a valid Blue Card from the day you turn 18. It is recommended to apply for your Blue Card in advanced so that you are covered.
Q: I have applied for a Blue Card, but have not received it yet. Can I start working with children while I wait?
A: No. You must have your Blue Card and Positive Notice letter issued before you start!
Q: I am from outside Queensland and have a Working With Children Check in my own state. Is it valid in QLD?
A: No. The QLD Government does not recognise checks from outside of QLD.
Q: I am a registered teacher or police officer. Do I require a Blue Card?
A: No, but are required to have an Exemption Card approved by Blue Card Services.
Q: I have been convicted of a criminal offence. Can I still hold a Blue Card?
A: Some offences will disqualify you from holding a Blue Card - please visit https://bluecard.qld.gov.au/disqualification.html to find out more.
For more information about whether you are required to hold a Blue Card, or how to apply for one, please visit www.bluecard.qld.gov.au.