The State Member for Mount Isa Rob Katter wants a reform of the program, especially in Indigenous areas.

‘‘The Blue Card system in Queensland is in urgent need of review,”  he said.

 “Currently the ‘one size fits all’ approach of the Blue Card system is having a detrimental affect on those trying to get work in remote areas and especially Indigenous communities,” Mr Katter said.

‘‘We’ve seen strong Indigenous community members barred from a Blue Card and prevented from work due to what are often minor offences.

 “In these instances Blue Cards are preventing employment and progress, for questionable improvements on safety.’’

Mr Katter said while he isn’t opposed to the intent of the system in some areas, it is not practical in some communities.

“The ability to ensure the safety of children is paramount, but we need to think practically about the context of the offences and the rehabilitation,” Mr Katter said.

‘‘The hard and fast rules behind the system prevent many of the best qualified and most suited from getting what little jobs are available.  

‘‘Government departments get frustrated and the locals get the rug pulled from under them just as they are trying to better themselves.

“As it stands the opinion of someone in Brisbane outweighs the judgment of local leaders and law officers who would be happy to endorse select individuals currently ineligible for a Blue Card.

“The bureaucratic tick-a-box system simply doesn’t cut it.”

Instead Mr Katter suggests the state government take a non-conventional approach by substituting Blue Cards with local community cards specifically tailored to the area.

The cards would be authorised by local stakeholders such as community elders and police to ensure their legitimacy.

“A sense of redemption to gainful employment is something we need to encourage,’’ Mr Katter said.

“Many members of these communities do not believe work is achievable considering their histories,  it’s a vicious cycle of unemployment and dependency – we shouldn’t be adding to the problem.’’