Indigenous children in Queensland are 8.3 times more likely than the non-indigenous population to be placed under child protection. When these children are placed, it is preferred that they are placed with families within their communities so that they are not disconnected from their culture. All persons who work with children are required to obtain a Positive Notice Blue Card (PNBC). If a person breaks the liquor control laws, that person can be deemed ineligible for a PNBC, thus disqualifying that person for work with children. These liquor laws are primarily inflicted on indigenous communities.
This paper discusses a large evaluation study that attempts to describe the impacts of the alcohol control laws enacted in various indigenous communities. Participants were interviewed and asked to give their thoughts on how the laws have affected them medically, economically and socially.
The survey concluded that the liquor restriction laws made it difficult for people to obtain a PNBC. Most jobs require contact with children, and if a person cannot obtain a PNBC, this can cause significant hardship. Additionally, a child will not be placed in a home if any member of that household is ineligible to obtain a PNBC. While criminal violations can cause a person to be ineligible for a PNBC, there is a reasonable appeals process that will allow a PNBC with minor violations.
The researchers determined that some Indigenous residents believe that a conviction for a breach of AMP provisions renders them ineligible to apply for and hold a PNBC. The researchers find that that there is a need to clarify the processes and requirements for community members, stakeholders and service providers so that people are properly educated on requirements and avenues for approval.