Royal Commission Report
What is the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse?
A Royal Commission is a special investigation into a matter of great importance. In this case, it is the sexual abuse of children within Australian institutions.
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (Royal Commission) is investigating how institutions like schools, churches, sports clubs and government organisations have responded to allegations and instances of child sexual abuse.
It is the job of the Royal Commission to uncover where systems have failed to protect children so it can make recommendations on how to improve laws, policies and practices.
The Royal Commission is about creating a safer future for children. It can look at any private, public or non-government organisation that is, or was in the past, involved with children. This includes where an organisation caring for a child is responsible for the abuse or for not responding appropriately, regardless of where or when the abuse took place.
What is the Working with Children Checks Report?
On 17 August 2015, the Royal Commission released a report on Working With Children Check (WWCC) systems. The report includes a series of recommendations about how WWCC systems should be administered.
I have a current blue card. Do I need to do anything?
No. At this stage, there has been no change to the Queensland blue card system. The Queensland Government, along with the Australia Government and other states and territories, is currently considering the Royal Commission’s recommendations.
Can I read the report?
Yes. The report is publicly available on the Royal Commission website.
I have read the report and it says I should have a working with children check for my current work. I didn’t need one before. Do I need one now?
No. At this stage, there has been no change to the Queensland blue card system. The Queensland Government, along with the Australia Government and other states and territories, is currently considering the Royal Commission’s recommendations.
However, we recommend that you review the materials available on the Blue Card Services website to ensure that you understand your current screening requirements.
You can contact Blue Card Services if you have any additional questions or require clarification.
Last Updated: 1 July, 2016
