Child accommodation services including home stays
Who needs a blue card?
Volunteers and trainee students need a blue card if they are providing a child accommodation service, including home stay, or are residing in a home where the child accommodation service is being provided, unless an exemption applies.
Police officers and registered teachers do not apply for a blue card and should instead apply for an exemption card under this category if they are providing child-related services which are outside of their professional duties. Read more about applying for an exemption card (PDF, 231KB).
Find out more about the application process for disability service providers (PDF, 287KB)
If you are a state government employee there are specific application forms which can be obtained from your Department's HR or Screening area.
Examples of people who need a blue card...
- Volunteers providing accommodation for international exchange students under the age of 18,
- Volunteers over the age of 18 who live in a house where child accommodation is being provided.
Who doesn't need a blue card?
A blue card is not required if:
- the child accommodation service is organised by a school or recognised body, and
- is for ten days or less on no more than two occasions per year.
Certain people do not require a blue card under this category, including;
- Relatives of the child or young person who is being accommodated, and
- Any persons in the home who are under 18 years of age.
Examples of people who don't need a blue card...
- A parent, grandparent, great grandparent, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew or cousin.
If you require a blue or exemption card under this category you will need to complete and submit an application form.
Last Updated: 3 June, 2015
