In the case of LHL v Director-General, Department of Justice and Attorney-General [2024] QCAT 158, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), led by Member Paratz AM, confirmed the Director-General's decision to deny LHL a working with children clearance, also known as a Blue Card. The ruling was based on a history of alcohol-related incidents and concerns regarding LHL's capability to safely work with children. Despite LHL's assertion of having ceased alcohol consumption and improving his behaviour, the Tribunal highlighted the lack of professional evidence supporting his claims. The Department pointed out LHL's long history of alcohol misuse and questioned his insight and the genuineness of his recent acknowledgment and supposed behavioural change. The Tribunal's decision reflects the paramount importance of child safety and the rigorous standards applied in assessing an individual's suitability for roles involving close contact with children. Additionally, a non-publication order was made to protect LHL's identity and address concerns regarding his mental and physical health.
From the TLDR Caselaw Archive