PreambleIn enacting this Act, the Parliament of Queensland recognises—1Ailan Kastom is important and significant for Torres Strait Islanders.2Ailan Kastom includes Ailan Kastom child rearing practice that is part of the unique, ancient, integral and enduring culture that exists within the Torres Strait Islander community.3Ailan Kastom child rearing practice has always been practised in the Torres Strait.4Ailan Kastom child rearing practice is integral to keeping Torres Strait Islanders spiritually and socially connected to the land and sea and assuring the survival of their culture.5As part of the recognition and preservation of Ailan Kastom it is necessary that the laws of Queensland protect the rights, interests and responsibilities of Torres Strait Islanders who are affected by Ailan Kastom child rearing practice.6The recognition of Ailan Kastom child rearing practice ensures that a child who has been raised in accordance with the practice will benefit by having their legal identity reflect their cultural identity.
The Parliament of Queensland enacts—Part 1Preliminary1Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.2CommencementThis Act commences on a day to be fixed by proclamation.3Act binds all persons(1)This Act binds all persons, including the State and, to the extent the legislative power of the Parliament permits, the Commonwealth and the other States.(2)However, the State, the Commonwealth or another State can not be prosecuted for an offence against this Act.4Main purpose of ActThe purpose of this Act is to—(a)recognise Ailan Kastom child rearing practice; and(b)establish a process for making applications for, and decisions about, the legal recognition of the practice.
5How purpose is achievedThe purpose is to be achieved by providing for the appointment of a commissioner to consider and decide applications for cultural recognition orders.6Main principle(1)The main principle for administering this Act is that any decision made under this Act in relation to a person who is the subject of an application for a cultural recognition order must be for the wellbeing and best interests of the person. (2)Without limiting subsection (1)—(a)in deciding what is for the wellbeing and best interests of a child who is the subject of an application for a cultural recognition order, the decision-maker must have regard to the following matters—(i)the need to ensure appropriate recognition and preservation of Ailan Kastom in general and Ailan Kastom child rearing practice in particular;(ii)the need to perform the powers and functions under this Act having regard to the sensitivity and cultural practices associated with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice; (iii)the legal and cultural benefits for the child if the cultural recognition order is made recognising Ailan Kastom child rearing practice;(iv)recognition of the birth parents’ assessment of the suitability of the cultural parents;(v)decisions must be made in a fair, timely and consistent manner; (vi)any other matter that is directly related to the child’s wellbeing and best interests; and
(b)in deciding what is for the wellbeing and best interests of an adult who is the subject of an application for a cultural recognition order, the decision-maker must have regard to—(i)the matters mentioned in paragraph (a)(i), (ii), and (v); and(ii)the legal and cultural benefits for the adult if the cultural recognition order is made recognising Ailan Kastom child rearing practice.
Part 2Interpretation7Definitions The dictionary in schedule 1 defines particular words used in this Act.8Meaning of Ailan Kastom child rearing practiceAilan Kastom child rearing practice is the practice recognised by Ailan Kastom under which a child’s birth parents and the child’s cultural parents agree in accordance with Ailan Kastom that the parental rights and responsibility for the child are permanently transferred from the birth parents to the cultural parents.9Meaning of birth parentA birth parent of a child, means a person who is recognised at law as being a parent of the child at the time the child is born.10Meaning of cultural parentA cultural parent is a person who, in accordance with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice, agrees to accept the permanent transfer of the parental rights and responsibility for a child from the child’s birth parents to the person.Part 3Commissioner and office of commissionerDivision 1CommissionerSubdivision 1Appointment11Commissioner(1)There is to be a commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa).(2)The commissioner is appointed by the Governor in Council on the recommendation of the Minister.(3)The Minister may recommend a person for appointment only if—(a)the person is a Torres Strait Islander; and(b)the Minister is satisfied the person is appropriately qualified.
12Commissioner appointed under this ActThe commissioner is appointed under this Act and not the Public Service Act 2008.13Term of appointment(1)The commissioner holds office for the term stated in the commissioner’s instrument of appointment.(2)The term must not be more than 3 years.(3)The commissioner may be reappointed.14Conditions of appointment(1)The commissioner is to be paid the remuneration and allowances decided by the Governor in Council.(2)The commissioner holds office on the terms and conditions, not otherwise provided by this Act, that are decided by the Governor in Council.15Preservation of rights of commissioner(1)This section applies if a public service officer is appointed as the commissioner.(2)The person keeps all rights accrued or accruing to the person as a public service officer as if service as the commissioner were a continuation of service as a public service officer.(3)At the end of the person’s term of office, or on resignation as the commissioner, the person’s service as the commissioner is taken to be service of a like nature in the public service for deciding the person’s rights as a public service officer.16Leave of absence(1)The Minister may approve a leave of absence for the commissioner.(2)The Minister may appoint another person to act in the office of the commissioner during the leave of absence.(3)Subsection (2) does not limit the Governor in Council’s power under the Acts Interpretation Act 1954, section 25(1)(b)(v).17Resignation(1)The commissioner may resign by signed notice given to the Minister.(2)The resignation takes effect on—(a)the day the notice is given; or(b)if a later day is stated in the notice—the later day.
18Disclosure of conflict of interests(1)If the commissioner considers that the commissioner can not independently consider and decide a particular application for a cultural recognition order, the commissioner must give the Minister a notice (a disclosure notice) stating—(a)the particular application in sufficient detail to enable the Minister to identify the application; and(b)the reasons the commissioner is not able to independently consider and decide the application; and (c)that the commissioner will not participate in the process leading to a decision for the application.
(2)Without limiting subsection (1), the commissioner must give a disclosure notice to the Minister if—(a)the commissioner becomes aware of a direct or an indirect interest the commissioner has in the application; and(b)the interest could conflict with the proper performance of the commissioner’s functions and powers.
(3)In this section—interest, in relation to an application, includes a familial interest or a financial interest.19Effect of disclosure notice(1)As soon as practicable after the Minister receives a disclosure notice, the Minister must appoint a person (the appointed person), other than the commissioner, to decide the application.(2)The Minister may appoint a person as an appointed person if the Minister is satisfied the person is appropriately qualified.(3)The appointed person must—(a)consider and decide the application under part 5 as if the appointed person had the powers and functions of the commissioner; and(b)give a statement of reasons for the decision to—(i)each party to the application; and(ii)the commissioner.
(4)The appointed person’s decision—(a)is taken to be a decision of the commissioner; and(b)takes effect as if the decision were the commissioner’s decision.
20Vacancy in office(1)The office of the commissioner becomes vacant if the commissioner—(a)gives notice of resignation under section 17; or(b)is convicted of an indictable offence; or(c)is removed from office by the Governor in Council under subsection (3).
(2)Also, if the commissioner is suspended by the Minister under subsection (5), the office is vacant during the period of suspension.(3)The Governor in Council may, at any time, remove the commissioner from office on the recommendation of the Minister.(4)The Minister may recommend the commissioner’s removal if the Minister is satisfied the commissioner—(a)is guilty of misconduct; or(b)is incapable of performing the functions or exercising the powers of the office of the commissioner; or(c)has neglected the functions or powers of the office of the commissioner or performed or exercised them incompetently.
(5)The Minister may suspend the commissioner for up to 60 days by signed notice to the commissioner if—(a)there is an allegation of misconduct against the commissioner; or(b)the Minister is satisfied a matter has arisen in relation to the commissioner that may be grounds for removal under this section.
21Acting commissioner(1)If there is a vacancy in the office of the commissioner or the commissioner is absent for any other reason or is unable to perform the functions of the office, the Minister may appoint a person to act as the commissioner for a period of not more than 6 months.(2)A person may only be appointed to act as the commissioner if the Minister is satisfied the person is appropriately qualified.Subdivision 2Functions and powers22FunctionsThe commissioner has the following functions—(a)to independently consider and decide each application for a cultural recognition order;(b)to ensure the proper, efficient and effective performance of the office;(c)to provide advice, or make recommendations, to the Minister about the operation of this Act and the office;(d)to promote public awareness of the commissioner’s functions and the office;(e)to advise the registrar of each cultural recognition order made by the commissioner;(f)any other function conferred on the commissioner under this Act or another Act.
23Obligation in performing functionsThe commissioner must, in performing the commissioner’s functions, act in accordance with the main principle of this Act.24PowersThe commissioner has power to do all things necessary or convenient to perform the commissioner’s functions.25Commissioner not subject to directionThe commissioner is not subject to direction by any person about the way the commissioner performs the commissioner’s functions or exercises the commissioner’s powers.Division 2Office of the commissioner26Office of the commissioner(1)An office called the Office of the Commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa) is established.(2)The office’s function is to help the commissioner perform the commissioner’s functions.(3)The office consists of the commissioner and the officers of the office.27Control of the officeThe commissioner controls the office.28OfficersOfficers of the office are appointed under the Public Service Act 2008.29Officers not subject to outside directionAn officer of the office is not subject to direction by any person, other than from within the office, about the way the commissioner’s functions or powers under this Act are performed or exercised.30Staffing arrangements and administrative support (1)The commissioner may ask the chief executive to give or make available to the office the administrative support services and facilities the office requires to perform its functions effectively.(2)The commissioner may arrange with the chief executive for the services of officers or employees of the department to be made available to the commissioner. (3)An officer or employee whose services are made available under subsection (2)—(a)continues to be an officer or employee of the department; and(b)continues to be employed or otherwise engaged by the department on the same terms and conditions applying to the officer or employee before the services were made available; and(c)is, for the period the services are made available and for carrying out the office’s functions, taken to be an officer of the office.
31Office not a statutory body for particular ActsTo remove any doubt, it is declared that the office is not a statutory body for the Financial Accountability Act 2009 or the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982.Part 4Applications for cultural recognition ordersDivision 1Eligibility and criteria32Preliminary criteria for making application for cultural recognition order(1)An application for a cultural recognition order about a person may be made only if—(a)at least 1 birth parent is a Torres Strait Islander; and(b)the person’s birth was registered in Queensland; and(c)at the time the person’s parentage is transferred in accordance with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice, at least 1 cultural parent is a Torres Strait Islander.
(2)Also, an application for a cultural recognition order about a person who is a child at the time the application is made may be made only—(a)by each of the child’s birth parents and cultural parents; and(b)if each applicant is an adult; and (c)30 days, or more, after the child’s birth is registered.
(3)For subsection (2), nothing prevents the application from being made if—(a)a birth parent or cultural parent is deceased; or(b)at the time the person’s parentage was transferred in accordance with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice—there was only 1 cultural parent.
(4)However, if a birth parent or cultural parent is deceased, the application can be made only if—(a)at least 1 birth parent is an applicant for the order; and(b)at least 1 cultural parent is an applicant for the order.
(5)An application for a cultural recognition order about a person who is an adult at the time the application is made only by the person.(6)For subsection (5) nothing prevents the application from being made if—(a)a birth parent or cultural parent is deceased; or(b)at the time the person’s parentage was transferred in accordance with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice—there was only 1 cultural parent.
33Making an application(1)An application for a cultural recognition order must be—(a)made in the approved form; and(b)if the person the subject of the application is a child— accompanied by—(i)a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate; and(ii)if a final adoption order has been made in relation to the child under the Adoption Act 2009, part 9—a copy of that order; and(iii)if an order has been made in relation to the child under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cwlth)—a copy of that order; and(iv)if an order has been made in relation to the child under the Child Protection Act 1999—a copy of that order; and(v)the statements or information required under section 34; and(vi)any other document or information prescribed by regulation; and
(c)if the person the subject of the application is an adult—accompanied by—(i)a certified copy of the person’s birth certificate; and(ii)the statements or information required under section 34.
Note—Some requirements may be dispensed with if a court makes a dispensation order under section 52.(2)The commissioner must make a record of each application.Division 2Documents and signed statements34Application to include particular documents and information (1)An application for a cultural recognition order about a person who is a child at the time the application is made must include—(a)a signed statement from each birth parent addressing the matters mentioned in section 35; and(b)a signed statement from each cultural parent addressing the matters mentioned in section 36; and(c)a signed statement from the birth parents’ nominated informed person and the cultural parents’ nominated informed person addressing the matters mentioned in section 38; and(d)if the child has an other carer—a signed statement from the other carer addressing the matters mentioned in section 39.
(2)Also, the application may be accompanied by any other information or document the applicant reasonably considers may help the commissioner in deciding whether to make a cultural recognition order.(3)An application for a cultural recognition order about a person who is an adult at the time of the application must include—(a)a signed statement from the person addressing the matters mentioned in section 37; and(b)a signed statement from each birth parent addressing the matters mentioned in section 35(1)(a), (b), (f), (g) and (h); and(c)a signed statement from each cultural parent addressing the matters mentioned in section 36(1)(a), (b), (e), (f) and (j); and(d)a signed statement from the birth parents’ nominated informed person and cultural parents’ nominated informed person addressing the matters mentioned in section 38.
(4)Also, the application may be accompanied by any other information or document the applicant reasonably considers may help the commissioner in deciding whether to make a cultural recognition order.35Birth parent’s statement(1)A birth parent’s signed statement must address the following matters—(a)the nature and details of the Ailan Kastom child rearing practice that occurred; (b)that the parental rights and obligations for the child were transferred under Ailan Kastom from the birth parent to the cultural parents in accordance with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice; (c)the reasons the birth parent considers a cultural recognition order will be in the best interests of the child;(d)whether, to the birth parent’s knowledge, the child is aware that the Ailan Kastom child rearing practice occurred; (e)that the birth parent is not aware of any matter that might be detrimental to the wellbeing and best interests of the child; (f)the name and address of a person both birth parents nominate as the informed person for the application;(g)that the birth parent consents to the making of inquiries of, and the exchange of information with, the informed person for the purpose of helping the commissioner decide whether to make a cultural recognition order;(h)that the birth parent gives their informed consent to the application being made.
(2)Without limiting subsection (1)(c), the birth parent’s statement may include the following matters—(a)the nature of any relationship the birth parent has with the child; (b)if the birth parent provides any financial support for the child—details of that support; (c)if the birth parent is involved in any decisions in relation to the child—details of that involvement.Example—details of the birth parent’s ability to decide or influence a decision about the child’s education or medical treatment
36Cultural parent’s statement(1)A cultural parent’s signed statement must address the following matters—(a)the nature and details of the Ailan Kastom child rearing practice that occurred; (b)that the parental rights and obligations for the child were transferred under Ailan Kastom from the birth parents to the cultural parents in accordance with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice; (c)the reasons the cultural parent considers a cultural recognition order will be in the best interests of the child; (d)the period the child has lived with the cultural parent; (e)the name and address of a person both the cultural parents nominate as the informed person for the application; (f)that the cultural parent consents to the making of inquiries of, and the exchange of information with, the informed person for the purpose of helping the commissioner decide whether to make a cultural recognition order; (g)whether, to the cultural parent’s knowledge, the child is aware that the Ailan Kastom child rearing practice occurred; (h)that the cultural parent consents to the commissioner— (i)requesting a copy of the cultural parent’s criminal history; and(ii)relying on information contained in the cultural parent’s criminal history to decide whether to make a cultural recognition order;
(i)that the cultural parent is not aware of any matter that might be detrimental to the well being and best interests of the child; (j)that the cultural parent gives their informed consent to the application being made.
(2)Without limiting subsection (1)(c), the cultural parent’s statement may include the following matters—(a)the nature of any relationship the birth parent has with the child; (b)the nature of the relationship the cultural parent has with the child; Example—how the child refers to the cultural parent and other family members(c)details of the child’s current living arrangements; Example—the number and ages of other children living with the cultural parent(d)details of the financial support provided by the cultural parent for the child; (e)details of how any decision is made in relation to the child.Example—who makes decisions about the child’s education or medical treatment
37Signed statement of adult who was subject to Ailan Kastom child rearing practice A signed statement of an adult who was subject to Ailan Kastom child rearing practice must address the following matters—(a)how the person was made aware that they were the subject of Ailan Kastom child rearing practice; (b)what information the person was provided with about the Ailan Kastom child rearing practice; (c)the nature of the relationship the person has with their cultural parents; Example—how the person refers to the cultural parents(d)the nature of any relationship the person has with their birth parents; Example—how the person refers to the birth parents(e)that the person consents to the making of inquiries of, and the exchange of information with, the person’s birth parents, cultural parents and informed person for the purpose of deciding whether to make a cultural recognition order; (f)that the person gives their informed consent to the application.
38Informed person’s signed statementAn informed person’s signed statement must address the following matters—(a)the person’s understanding of the Ailan Kastom child rearing practice that occurred in relation to the application; (b)whether the Ailan Kastom child rearing practice occurred in accordance with Ailan Kastom; (c)the person’s relationship, if any, to the birth parents, the cultural parents and the person the subject of the application.
39Other carer’s statementAn other carer’s signed statement must address the following matters—(a)the other carer’s relationship to the child;(b)that the other carer gives their informed consent to the application being made;(c)the reasons the other carer considers a cultural recognition order will be in the best interests of the child.
Part 5Cultural recognition ordersDivision 1Applications for cultural recognition order40Commissioner must deal with applicationsThe commissioner must deal with an application for a cultural recognition order by considering and deciding the application under this part.41Commissioner may request additional information (1)The commissioner may, by notice given to an applicant for a cultural recognition order, ask the applicant for further information or a document the commissioner reasonably requires to decide whether to make a cultural recognition order.(2)The notice— (a)must state a reasonable period of at least 30 business days within which the applicant must give the information or document to the commissioner; and(b)must state that an applicant may request that the commissioner extend the period mentioned in paragraph (a); and(c)may require the information or document be verified by statutory declaration.
(3)The commissioner may extend the period mentioned in subsection (2)(a) by notice given to the person—(a)on the commissioner’s own initiative; or (b)if an applicant makes a request under subsection (2)(b).
(4)The commissioner may decide whether to make a cultural recognition order regardless of whether the applicant gives the further information or document requested.42Withdrawal of application(1)An applicant for a cultural recognition order may withdraw the application by giving written notice (a notice of withdrawal) to the commissioner.(2)On the commissioner’s receipt of the notice of withdrawal, the application ends.(3)As soon as practicable after receiving the notice of withdrawal, the commissioner must give the applicant, and each other party to the application, notice that the application is withdrawn.43Duty of parties to applicationEach applicant for a cultural recognition order must participate in the commissioner’s consideration of the application in good faith.44Consideration procedure(1)Subject to this Act, the commissioner must consider an application for a cultural recognition order in accordance with any guidelines made by the commissioner under section 108.(2)Also, the commissioner, in considering the application—(a)must act in a way that is fair and reasonable; and(b)must maintain confidentiality; and(c)must comply with natural justice; and(d)may have regard to any matter the commissioner considers relevant to the application, including any previous applications made in relation to the person the subject of the application; and(e)may make inquiries the commissioner considers appropriate.
Division 2Information to assist commissioner45Criminal history report(1)This section applies for deciding an application for a cultural recognition order if the person the subject of the application is a child.(2)The commissioner may ask the police commissioner for a written report about a cultural parent’s criminal history that includes a brief description of the circumstances of a conviction mentioned in the criminal history.(3)The police commissioner must comply with the request.(4)The duty to comply applies only to information the police commissioner has possession of or to which the police commissioner has access.(5)The commissioner must ensure the report is destroyed as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was requested.46Dealing with criminal history report (1)This section applies if the commissioner receives a report about a cultural parent’s criminal history.(2)As soon as practicable after receiving the report the commissioner must give written notice to the cultural parent.(3)The written notice must include a copy of the report and state—(a)that the cultural parent may within 30 business days after receiving the notice give the commissioner information or documents about any information contained in the report; and(b)that the cultural parent may request that the commissioner extend the period mentioned in paragraph (a).
(4)If the cultural parent makes a request to extend the period mentioned in subsection (3)(a), the commissioner may extend the period by notice given to the person.Division 3Dispensing with a person’s consent47Application of divisionThis division applies if an applicant for a cultural recognition order is not able to make the application for the order with the consent of any of the following persons—(a)a birth parent; (b)a cultural parent; (c)if the child has an other carer—the other carer.
48Application for dispensation(1)If an applicant for a cultural recognition order is not able to apply for a cultural recognition order with the consent of a party whose consent is otherwise required, the applicant may apply to a court for an order dispensing with the need for the consent of the party (the stated party).(2)The application must state the grounds on which it is made.49Notice of application(1)As soon as practicable after filing an application for an order dispensing with the need for the consent of a stated party, the applicant must serve a copy of the application on—(a)the stated party; and(b)each other party who is an applicant for the cultural recognition order; and(c)the commissioner.
(2)A served copy must state where and when the application is to be heard.(3)A copy served on the stated party must also state that the application may be heard and decided even though the party does not appear in court.(4)The court may dispense with the requirement to serve a copy of the application on the stated party if the court is satisfied of any of the following matters—(a)the applicant can not establish the identity of the party after making all reasonable enquiries;(b)the applicant can not locate the party after making all reasonable enquiries;(c)the conception of the person the subject of the application for a cultural recognition order was a result of an offence committed by the party;(d)there would be an unacceptable risk of harm to the birth mother of the person the subject of the application for a cultural recognition order if the party were made aware of the person’s birth or the application for a cultural recognition order;(e)there are other special circumstances for dispensing with the requirement to serve a copy of the application.
50RespondentIf a stated party is served with a copy of an application for an order dispensing with the need for the stated party’s consent to an application for a cultural recognition order, the stated party is a respondent in the proceeding.51Hearing of application in absence of stated party(1)The court may hear and decide an application for an order dispensing with the need for the consent of a stated party in the absence of the party only if—(a)the party has been given reasonable notice of the hearing and failed to attend or continue to attend the hearing; or(b)the court dispenses with the requirement to serve a copy of the application on the party under section 49(4).
(2)Subsection (1) does not limit the court’s jurisdiction to exclude a person from a proceeding.52Court may dispense with need for consent(1)The court may make an order (a dispensation order) dispensing with the need for the consent of a stated party as part of the application for a cultural recognition order if—(a)the court is satisfied of a matter stated in section 49(4)(a) to (d); or(b)QCAT has made a declaration that the party does not have capacity to give the consent; or(c)a court or tribunal of another jurisdiction has made an order or other direction, however called, that the party does not have capacity to give the consent; or(d)the court is satisfied there are other special circumstances for giving the dispensation.
(2)However, if the person the subject of the application for a cultural recognition order is a child and the stated party is or is believed to be the person’s birth parent, the court must not give the dispensation—(a)within 30 days after notice is given to the party under section 49; or(b)if the court has reason to believe there is—(i)a current application under the Status of Children Act 1978, section 10, by the party or another person, for a declaration of parentage for the child; or(ii)a current application under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cwlth) by the party for a parenting order for the child.
53Notice of court orderIf a court makes a dispensation order, the applicant must give the commissioner a copy of the order.54Effect of order(1)This section applies if the commissioner is given a copy of a dispensation order under section 53.(2)The commissioner must continue to consider and decide the application for a cultural recognition order without the need for the consent of the stated party.Division 4Discharge of dispensation order55Discharge of dispensation order if stated party not served with application(1)This section applies if—(a)a court makes a dispensation order; and(b)a copy of the application for the order was not served on a stated party.
(2)The party may apply to the court to discharge the dispensation order.(3)The applicant must serve a copy of the application for discharge of the dispensation order on each other person who was a party to the proceeding for the dispensation order.(4)The court may discharge the dispensation order if—(a)a cultural recognition order has not been made; and(b)the court is satisfied a ground on which the dispensation order was made under section 52 does not apply.
Division 5Deciding whether to make cultural recognition orders56Considerations before making decisionBefore deciding to make a cultural recognition order the commissioner must be satisfied—(a)that, subject to any dispensation order, each birth parent and cultural parent gave full, free and informed consent to the making of the application for the order; and(b)if the application contains a signed statement from an other carer—the other carer gave full, free and informed consent to the making of the application; and (c)if the person the subject of the application for the order is a child—that the making of the order is for the wellbeing and in the best interests of the child; and(d)that the transfer of parentage occurred in accordance with Ailan Kastom child rearing practice; and(e)that each applicant was entitled to apply under section 32; and(f)that the requirements mentioned in section 34 are satisfied; and(g)that each applicant has provided the required information or statement.
57Notice of intention before deciding not to make cultural recognition order(1)If the commissioner is considering not making a cultural recognition order, the commissioner must give each party to the application for the order a notice (a notice of intention) that states—(a)the reasons the commissioner is considering not making the order; and(b)that an applicant may within 30 business days after receiving the notice of intention give the commissioner information or documents not included in the application that support the making of the order; and(c)that an applicant may request that the commissioner extend the period mentioned in paragraph (b).
(2)If an applicant makes a request under subsection (1)(c), the commissioner may extend the period mentioned in subsection (1)(b) by notice given to the applicant.58Deciding about cultural recognition order(1)After having regard to the information in an application for a cultural recognition order and information or documents given under section 57, the commissioner must decide—(a)to make a cultural recognition order; or (b)not to make a cultural recognition order.
(2)If the person the subject of the application for the cultural recognition order is a child, the commissioner must give each party to the application—(a)a statement of reasons for the decision; and(b)if the decision is to make an order—a copy of the order.
(3)If the applicant is an adult who is the subject of the application, the commissioner must give to the applicant and the applicant’s birth parents and cultural parents—(a)a statement of reasons for the decision; and(b)if the decision is to make an order—a copy of the order.
59What cultural recognition order must stateIf the commissioner makes a cultural recognition order about a person, the order must state the following information—(a)that the order is made under this Act in recognition of Ailan Kastom;(b)the person’s name;(c)the name of each of the person’s birth parents and cultural parents;(d)that the person’s parentage is transferred from the birth parents to the cultural parents;(e)the date of the decision; (f)any other information prescribed by regulation.
Division 6Internal review60Application for internal review(1)If the commissioner decides to not make a cultural recognition order the parties to the application for the order may apply to the Minister for a review of the decision (an application for internal review).(2)The application for internal review must be made—(a)in the approved form; and(b)jointly by the parties; and(c)within 20 business days after the statement of reasons for the decision was given to the parties.
(3)The Minister may, at any time, extend the period within which the application for internal review may be made.61Internal review(1)Within 20 business days after the Minister receives an application for internal review, the Minister must appoint a person (the review officer) , other than the commissioner, to review the commissioner’s decision.(2)The Minister may appoint a person as the review officer if the Minister is satisfied the person is appropriately qualified.(3)The review officer must—(a)consider the application; and(b)review the commissioner’s decision; and(c)make a decision (the reviewed decision) to—(i)confirm the commissioner’s decision; or(ii)revoke the commissioner’s decision and make a cultural recognition order; and
(d)give a statement of reasons for the reviewed decision to—(i)the parties to the application for internal review; and(ii)the commissioner.
62Effect of review officer’s decision to make a cultural recognition order If the review officer revokes the commissioner’s decision and makes a cultural recognition order—(a)the reviewed decision is taken to be a decision of the commissioner; and(b)the commissioner must give effect to the decision as if—(i)the decision were the commissioner’s decision; and(ii)no application for internal review had been made.
Part 6Registration of cultural recognition orders63Commissioner must notify registrarAs soon as practicable after a cultural recognition order is made by the commissioner, the commissioner must give a copy of the order to the registrar. 64Entitlement to certificate, information relating to particular entries(1)This section applies to each of the following persons—(a)a person who was an applicant for a cultural recognition order that was made by the commissioner;(b)an adult who was the subject of a cultural recognition order;(c) if a person mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) has a guardian—the person’s guardian.
(2)On request by a person mentioned in subsection (1), the commissioner must give the person an authorisation to obtain a certificate, information, source document or a copy of the cultural recognition order under this section.(3)However, the authorisation may exclude information if the commissioner is satisfied that allowing access to the certificate, information, source document or the copy of the cultural recognition order would be an unreasonable invasion of a person’s privacy or otherwise unreasonably harm a person’s interests.Example—The authorisation may exclude a part of a document showing a person’s birth was the result of a sexual offence.(4)The person may make an application under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003, section 44, accompanied by an authorisation from the commissioner, for the requested information mentioned in that section to which the authorisation relates.(5)The registrar must grant the application if it relates to an entry about the cultural recognition order in the register of births and the cultural recognition register.(6)A certificate or copy of a source document given under this section and relating to a closed entry must be endorsed ‘Not to be used for official purposes’.(7)In this section—certificate see the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003, schedule 2.closed entry means an entry that has been closed under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003, section 14, 41DA or 41DB.cultural recognition register see the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003, schedule 2, definition relevant child register.source document see the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003, schedule 2.Part 7Effect of cultural recognition orders65Application of partThis part applies if the commissioner makes a cultural recognition order.66Effect on relationships(1)On the making of a cultural recognition order about a person—(a)the person’s parentage is transferred from the birth parents to the cultural parents; and (b)the person becomes a child of the cultural parents; and(c)the cultural parents become the parents of the person; and(d)the person stops being a child of the birth parents; and (e)a birth parent stops being a parent of the person.
(2)Other relationships are determined in accordance with subsection (1).(3)However, for the purpose of applying a law relating to a sexual offence where a familial relationship is relevant, the person is taken to have—(a)the familial relationship that existed before the making of the order; and(b)the familial relationship resulting from the making of the order.
67Effect on disposal of property(1)Section 66(1) and (2) have effect in relation to—(a)dispositions of property, whether by will or otherwise; and(b)devolutions of property in relation to which a person dies intestate.
(2)However, section 66 does not affect the operation of a will or other instrument that distinguishes between a person about whom a cultural recognition order is made and another person about whom a cultural recognition order has not been made.68Public trustee to make inquiries if bequest to unlocatable person(1)This section applies if—(a)under a will made after the commencement, a testator makes a disposition of property to a person—(i)who is described as being a child of the testator or of another person; and(ii)whose parentage was transferred to another person or persons as a result of a cultural recognition order; and
(b)the personal representative of the testator is unable to determine the name and address of the person.
(2)The personal representative must give the public trustee a copy of the will and a notice stating that the personal representative is unable to determine the name and address of the person.(3)On receipt of the copy and notice, the public trustee must take steps to determine the name and address of the person and, if the person has died, the date of the death, by asking for information from—(a)the commissioner; and(b)the registrar under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003.
(4)Despite any other Act or law, if the commissioner receives a request from the public trustee under subsection (3), the commissioner must give the public trustee the name and address of the person held in the commissioner’s records.(5)The Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003, section 44 does not apply to a request for information made under subsection (3) to the registrar under that Act.(6)After taking the steps mentioned in subsection (3), the public trustee must give a notice to the personal representative stating—(a)that the public trustee has been able to determine—(i)the person’s name; or(ii)the person’s address; or(iii)the death of the person; and
(b)to the extent the public trustee is unable to determine the name or address of the person or whether the person has died, what details the public trustee has been unable to determine.
69Public trustee is trustee if bequest to unlocatable person(1)This section applies if—(a)under a will made after the commencement, a testator makes a disposition of property to a person—(i)who is described as being a child of the testator or of another person; and(ii)whose parentage was transferred to another person or persons as a result of a cultural recognition order; and
(b)the personal representative of the testator is given a notice by the public trustee under section 68(6).
(2)The public trustee is a trustee for the person on the trusts stated in, or arising under, the will.(3)If the personal representative transfers property to the public trustee as trustee for the person, the personal representative is taken to have transferred the property to the person.(4)Subsections (2) and (3) do not apply if the person died before the testator or, for another reason, is not entitled to an interest under the will.(5)If the public trustee gives the personal representative a notice that the person has disclaimed property to which the person was entitled under the will, the notice is, for the purpose of administering the estate, sufficient evidence that the person has disclaimed the property.70Public trustee’s fees for involvement(1)The public trustee may charge fees for taking steps under section 68(3) or (6) or for acting as trustee under section 69.(2)The personal representative of the testator must pay to the public trustee out of the testator’s estate any fees charged by the public trustee under subsection (1) and any fees or costs incurred by the public trustee in taking steps under section 68(3) or (6).71Transfer or distribution of property by trustee(1)Subject to this section, a trustee may transfer or distribute property to a person who appears entitled to it without finding out whether the person’s entitlement is affected by a cultural recognition order.(2)A trustee who transfers or distributes property under subsection (1) is not liable to a person claiming directly or indirectly because of an order unless the trustee has written or other notice of the claim before the transfer or distribution.(3)This section does not affect a person’s right to follow property into the hands of a person, other than a purchaser for value, who has received it.(4)In this section—trustee includes a personal representative of the testator.Part 8Discharge of cultural recognition order72Definition for partIn this part—relevant party means—(a)for a cultural recognition order about a child—(i)a birth parent of the child; or(ii)a cultural parent of the child; or
(b)for a cultural recognition order about an adult—(i)the adult; or(ii)a birth parent of the adult; or(iii)a cultural parent of the adult.
73Grounds for discharge(1)A relevant party for a cultural recognition order may apply to the court for an order (a discharge order) discharging the cultural recognition order on any of the following grounds—(a)the order was made—(i)because of a false or misleading document or representation; or(ii)because a person acted fraudulently or used undue influence on another person; or(iii)because a person did not provide full, free and informed consent; or(iv)on some other improper basis; or
(b)there are other exceptional circumstances that warrant the discharge.
(2)In this section—undue influence includes—(a)the use or threatened use of force or restraint; and(b)causing or threatening to cause injury; and(c)causing or threatening to cause any other detriment.
74Application for discharge order(1)An application for a discharge order must be made to a court.(2)The application must state the ground on which it is made.(3)As soon as practicable after filing the application in the court, the applicant must serve a copy of it on—(a)each person—(i)other than the applicant, who was a relevant party for the cultural recognition order; and(ii)who was required to consent to the application for the cultural recognition order; and
(b)the commissioner.
(4)A served copy of the application for a discharge order must state where and when the application is to be heard.(5)The court may dispense with the requirement to serve a copy of the application on a person if the court is satisfied—(a)the applicant can not locate the person after making all reasonable enquiries; or(b)the person is deceased.
75RespondentA person, other than the commissioner, who is served with a copy of an application for a discharge order is a respondent in the proceeding.76Hearing of application in absence of party(1)A court may hear and decide an application for a discharge order only—(a)if the person the subject of a cultural recognition order is an adult—if the person or a lawyer representing the person appears in the proceeding; or(b)if the person the subject of a cultural recognition order is a child—if the child’s birth parents and cultural parents appear in the proceeding.
(2)However, the court may hear and decide the application in the absence of a relevant party if—(a)the party has been given reasonable notice of the hearing and failed to attend or continue to attend the hearing; or(b)the court dispenses with the requirement to serve a copy of the application on the party under section 74(5).
(3)Subsections (1) and (2) do not limit the court’s jurisdiction to exclude a person from a proceeding.77Court may make a discharge order(1)The court may make a discharge order only if satisfied of a ground mentioned in section 73(1).(2)However, if an application for a discharge order is about a child who was the subject of a cultural recognition order, the court may only make a discharge order if it considers the discharge is for the wellbeing and in the best interests of the child.(3)The discharge order must state the following information—(a)the name of the person who applied for the discharge order;(b)the name of the person about whom the cultural recognition order was made and the date the order was made;(c)the date the discharge order is made; (d)any other information prescribed by regulation.
(4)Also, if the court makes a discharge order, it may also—(a)make any other order it considers appropriate in the interests of justice; and(b)if the person the subject of the cultural recognition order is a child—make any other order to protect the wellbeing and best interests of the child.
(5)An order, other than a discharge order, made under subsection (4) may be about any matter relating to the wellbeing or best interests of the person, including, for example, any of the following matters—(a)if the person the subject of the cultural recognition order is a child—(i)the ownership of property; or(ii)the child’s name; or(iii)the custody or guardianship of the child;
(b)if the person the subject of the cultural recognition order is an adult—the ownership of property.
78Effect of discharge order(1)On the making of a discharge order discharging a cultural recognition order, the rights, privileges, duties, liabilities and relationships of the person and each relevant party to the cultural recognition order are the same as if the cultural recognition order had not been made.(2)However, the making of the discharge order does not affect—(a)anything lawfully done, or the consequences of anything lawfully done, while the cultural recognition order was in force; or(b)a right, privilege or liability acquired, accrued or incurred while the cultural recognition order was in force.
(3)Also, for the purpose of applying a law relating to a sexual offence where a familial relationship is relevant, the person is taken to have—(a)the familial relationships that resulted from the making of the cultural recognition order; and(b)the familial relationships resulting from the making of the discharge order.
79Applicant must give copy of orderAs soon as practicable after a discharge order is made, the applicant for the discharge order must give a certified copy of the discharge order to—(a)the registrar; and (b)the commissioner.
Part 9Court proceedingsDivision 1Preliminary80Application of part 9This part applies to a proceeding under this Act.Division 2Constitution of court and procedural provisions81Court’s constitutionWhen exercising its jurisdiction under this Act, a court must be constituted by a Childrens Court judge.82Court rules(1)The Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 1999 apply in relation to proceedings under this Act as if the proceedings were proceedings in the District Court.(2)However, the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 1999 do not apply for a matter in relation to a proceeding in the Childrens Court that is provided for under rules of that court made under the Childrens Court Act 1992.83Court fees A regulation made under the Supreme Court of Queensland Act 1991 about how fees are to be received and dealt with in the courts applies in relation to a proceeding in the Childrens Court under this Act as if the proceeding were a proceeding in the District Court.84Court’s paramount considerationIn exercising its jurisdiction or powers under this Act a court must regard the wellbeing and best interests of a child as paramount.85Evidence(1)A court is not bound by the rules of evidence, but may inform itself in any way it thinks appropriate.(2)If, on an application for an order under this Act, the court is to be satisfied of a matter, the court need only be satisfied of the matter on the balance of probabilities.86Court to ensure parties understand proceedingA court must, as far as practicable, ensure the parties to a proceeding understand the nature, purpose and legal implications of the proceeding and of any order or ruling made by the court.87Expert help(1)A court may appoint a person with special knowledge or a special skill to help the court.(2)The court may act under subsection (1) on the court’s own initiative or on the application of a party to the proceeding.88Right of appearance and representation(1)A party to a proceeding may appear in person or be represented by a lawyer.(2)Also, if a party for any reason can not appear in person in a proceeding, another person appointed in writing by the party may, with the leave of the court, represent the party in the proceeding.89Child can not be compelled to give evidence(1)In a proceeding, a child may be called to give evidence only with the leave of the court.(2)The court may grant leave only if the child—(a)is at least 12 years; and(b)is represented by a lawyer; and(c)agrees to give evidence.
(3)If the child gives evidence, the child may be cross-examined only with the leave of the court.90Court may hear submissions from non-parties to proceeding(1)In a proceeding, the court may hear submissions from the following persons—(a)a member of the family of the child to whom the proceeding relates;(b)anyone else the court considers is able to inform it on any matter relevant to the proceeding.
(2)A submission may be made by a person’s lawyer.91CostsEach party to a proceeding must pay its own costs of the proceeding.Division 3Appeals92Who may appealA party may appeal to the appellate court against a decision on an application if—(a)the party was an applicant for a dispensation order and the dispensation order was not made; or(b)the party is a stated party and a dispensation order has been made about the party; or(c)the party was an applicant for a discharge order and the discharge order was not made.
93How to start appeal(1)The appeal is started by filing a notice of appeal with the registrar of the appellate court.(2)The appellant must serve a copy of the notice—(a)if section 92(a) or (c) applies—on each other person entitled to appeal against the decision; or(b)if section 92(b) applies—on the person who applied for the dispensation order.
(3)The notice of appeal must be filed within 28 days after the decision is made.(4)The court may at any time extend the period for filing the notice of appeal.(5)The notice of appeal must state fully the grounds of the appeal and the facts relied on.94Stay of decision(1)The appellate court may stay a decision appealed against to secure the effectiveness of the appeal.(2)A stay—(a)may be given on conditions; and(b)operates for the period fixed by the court; and(c)may be revoked or amended by the court.
(3)The period of a stay must not extend past the time when the court decides the appeal.(4)The starting of an appeal against a decision affects the decision, or the carrying out of the decision, only if the decision is stayed.95Hearing proceduresAn appeal must be decided on the evidence and proceedings before the court.96Powers of appellate courtIn deciding an appeal, the appellate court may—(a)confirm the decision appealed against; or(b)vary the decision appealed against; or(c)set aside the decision appealed against and substitute another decision; or(d)set aside the decision appealed against and remit the matter to the court that made the decision.
Division 4General97Court hearings not public(1)This section applies to the hearing in the court or the appellate court of a proceeding under this Act.(2)The hearing for the proceeding is not open to the public.(3)Despite section 20 of the Childrens Court Act 1992, a court must exclude from the room in which the court is sitting a person who is not—(a)a child to whom the proceedings relates: or(b)an adult who is the subject of a cultural recognition order relevant to the proceeding; or(c)an appellant; or(d)a respondent; or(e)if the proceeding relates to a child who is the subject of a cultural recognition order—(i)the child’s birth parent; or(ii)the child’s cultural parent; or(iii)the child’s other carer; or
(f)the commissioner; or(g)a lawyer of a party to the proceeding or of a person mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (e)(iii); or(h)a witness giving evidence.
(4)However, the court may permit a person who is not mentioned in subsection (3) to be present during the hearing if the court is satisfied it is in the interests of justice to do so.98Access to court records(1)A person may not have access to the record of proceedings in the court or the appellate court in relation to a proceeding under this Act about a cultural recognition order unless the court, on application by an applicant for the order, or the commissioner, has given approval to access the record.(2)The court may give access to all or part of the record of proceedings.(3)Without limiting the reasons for which the court may refuse to give a person access to all or part of the record of proceedings, the court may refuse to give access if—(a)the person has not produced to the registrar or another appropriate officer of the court proof of the person’s identity; or(b)the person has not complied with a requirement of the court under any law or rule of practice relating to inspection of and release of information generally from its record of proceedings.
(4)In this section—record of proceedings includes—(a)a written transcript of the proceedings; and(b)the documents in the court file for the proceedings; and(c)an appeal book in relation to the proceedings.
Division 5Offences and legal proceedings99False or misleading informationA person must not give information under this Act to the commissioner that the person knows is false or misleading in a material particular.Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.100Offences against this Act(1)A proceeding for an offence against this Act is to be heard and decided summarily.(2)A proceeding for the offence must start within the later of the following periods to end—(a)1 year after the offence was allegedly committed; (b)6 months after the offence comes to the complainant’s knowledge, but within 2 years after the offence was allegedly committed.
Part 10Confidentiality and access to information 101Definitions for partIn this part—confidential information—(a)means the following information—(i)personal information;(ii)information in relation to an Ailan Kastom child rearing practice that a person knows is of a secret or sacred nature; and
(b)does not include information that is lawfully available to the public.
personal information see the Information Privacy Act 2009, section 12.sacred means sacred according to Ailan Kastom.secret means secret according to Ailan Kastom.102Confidentiality of information(1)An administrator must not, directly or indirectly, disclose confidential information, that has become known to the administrator in the course of performing the administrator’s functions under this Act, to another person unless the disclosure is permitted under subsection (2) or (3).Maximum penalty—100 penalty units or 2 years imprisonment.(2)An administrator is permitted to disclose confidential information, other than information that the administrator knows is of a secret or sacred nature, to another person—(a)under this Act; or(b)if the disclosure is otherwise required or permitted by law; or(c)if the person to whom the information relates consents to the disclosure; or(d)if the disclosure is in a form that does not identify the person to whom the information relates.
(3)The commissioner may disclose information that is contained in a person’s criminal history if the disclosure is made in—(a)a notice of intention; or(b)a statement of reasons given under section 58(2)(a).
103Access to particular information(1)An applicant for a cultural recognition order may apply in writing to the commissioner for a copy of restricted information about the application for a cultural recognition order.(2)In deciding whether or not to grant the application for a copy of restricted information the commissioner must have regard to—(a)the need to protect a person’s privacy; and(b)the need to safeguard a person from harm.
(3)If the commissioner grants the application, the commissioner may grant access to all or a part of the restricted information.(4)If the commissioner decides not to grant the application, the commissioner must give the applicant written notice of the commissioner’s decision and a statement of reasons for the decision.(5)In this section—restricted information, about an application for a cultural recognition order, means—(a)the application for the order; or(b)information or a document that accompanied the application for the order; or(c)information or a document that was given to the commissioner under section 41; or(d)a statement of reasons given under section 58(2) or (3).
104Publishing identifying material(1)This section applies to material (identifying material) that is confidential information or other information that identifies, or is likely to lead to the identification of, a person as—(a)a party, or relative of a party, to an application for a cultural recognition order; or(b)a party, or relative of a party, to a court proceeding relating to an application for a discharge order; or(c)a person whose consent to an application for a cultural recognition order is or was required.
(2)A person must not publish identifying material unless written consent to the publication has been given, for each identified person, by—(a)for an identified person who is a child the subject of a cultural recognition order or an application for a cultural recognition order—the birth parents and the cultural parents of the child; or(b)for an identified person who is an adult—that person.
Maximum penalty—(a)for an individual—100 penalty units or 2 years imprisonment; or(b)for a corporation—1,000 penalty units.
(3)In this section—identified person, in relation to identifying material, means a person identified by the material as a person mentioned in subsection (1)(a) to (c).publish means publish to the public by television, radio, the internet, newspaper, periodical, notice, circular or other form of communication.Part 11Civil liability105Administrator not civilly liable (1)An administrator is not civilly liable for an act done, or omission made, honestly and without negligence under this Act.(2)If subsection (1) prevents a liability attaching to the administrator, the liability attaches instead to the State.(3)This section does not apply to an administrator if the administrator is a State employee within the meaning of the Public Service Act 2008, section 26B(4).Note—For protection from civil liability in relation to State employees, see the Public Service Act 2008, section 26C.Part 12Miscellaneous106Relationship with Adoption Act 2009 and other laws(1)On the making of a cultural recognition order about a child, the order has effect as if the order were a final adoption order made under the Adoption Act 2009.(2)Without limiting subsection (1), for any law the making of the cultural recognition order takes effect as if—(a)a child who is the subject of the cultural recognition order were a child adopted under the Adoption Act 2009; and(b)a cultural parent named in the cultural recognition order were an adoptive parent named in a final adoption order; and(c)a birth parent named in the cultural recognition order were a birth parent named in a final adoption order.
(3)In this section—adoptive parent see the Adoption Act 2009, schedule 3.final adoption order see the Adoption Act 2009, schedule 3.107Decisions and persons with impaired capacity(1)This section applies if— (a)a decision-maker is making a decision under part 5, 8, 9 or 10; and (b)the decision may affect the rights and interests of an adult with impaired capacity.
(2)In making the decision, the decision-maker must take into account—(a)the adult’s right to participate, to the greatest extent practicable, in the decision making process; and(b)that the adult must be given the support and access to information necessary to enable the adult to make a decision as part of, or participate in, the decision making process.
(3)In addition, the decision-maker must ensure that, to the greatest extent practicable, the adult’s views, wishes and preferences are sought and taken into account before making the decision.(4) The adult’s views, wishes and preferences may be expressed orally, in writing or in another way, including, for example, by conduct.(5)In this section—capacity see the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000, schedule 4.impaired capacity see the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000, schedule 4.108Commissioner may make guidelines (1)The commissioner may make guidelines for matters within the scope of this Act to help compliance with this Act.(2)The guidelines—(a)must be consistent with this Act; and(b)may include—(i)procedures about how an application may be considered; and(ii)procedures for making cultural recognition orders; and(iii)procedures about internal reviews; and(iv)procedures about any other matter the commissioner considers relevant.
(3)The guidelines must be published on the department’s website.(4)In this section—department’s website means a website, or part of a website—(a)administered by the department; and(b)with a URL that contains qld.gov.au.
109Approved forms(1)The commissioner may approve forms for use under this Act.(2)Information in an approved form must, if the approved form requires, be verified by a signed statement.110Annual report on office(1)As soon as practicable after each financial year, but not later than 31 October, the commissioner must give the Minister a report including—(a)a review of the operation of the office during the preceding financial year; and(b)proposals for improving the operation of, and forecasts of the workload of, the office in the present financial year; and(c)any other information required by the Minister relating to the performance of the commissioner’s functions or exercise of powers under this Act.
(2)The report must not contain— (a)confidential information; or (b)any other information that identifies, or is likely to lead to the identification of, a person as—(i)a child who was the subject of an application for a cultural recognition order; or(ii)an applicant for a cultural recognition order; or(iii)a person, other than a person mentioned in paragraph (ii), who was required to give a statement for an application for a cultural recognition order.
(3)The Minister must table a copy of the report in the Legislative Assembly within 14 sitting days after receiving the report.111Review of Act and operations of office(1)The Minister must review the operation and efficacy of this Act within 2 years after its commencement.(2)The Minister must table in the Legislative Assembly a report on the outcome of the review as soon as practicable after the review is completed.112Regulation-making power(1)The Governor in Council may make regulations under this Act.(2)A regulation may—(a)prescribe fees payable under the Act; and(b)provide for a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units for a contravention of a regulation.
Part 13Amendment of ActsDivision 1Amendment of this Act113Act amendedThis division amends this Act.114Amendment of long titleLong title, from ‘, and to amend’—omit.Division 2Amendment of Adoption Act 2009115Act amendedThis division amends the Adoption Act 2009.116Amendment of s 7 (Additional principles concerning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons)Section 7(1)(a), note—omit, insert—Note—The Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020 provides for the legal recognition of Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing practice where parental responsibility for a child is permanently transferred from the child’s birth parents to the child’s cultural parents.Division 3Amendment of Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003117Act amendedThis division amends the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003.118Amendment of s 3 (Objects)(1)Section 3(a)—insert—(iia)changes of parentage under a cultural recognition order made under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020; and
(2)Section 3(a)(iia) and (iii)—renumber as section 3(a)((iii) and (iv).119Amendment of s 10A (Limitation on registration of parentage details)Section 10A(2), definition relevant event, paragraph (c)—omit, insert—(c)the child’s change of parentage under—(i)a parentage order or discharge order; or(ii)a cultural recognition order or the discharge of a cultural recognition order under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
120Amendment of s 14 (Re-registering a relevant event)(1)Section 14(1)—insert—(d)a person’s parentage is changed by a cultural recognition order and registered under this Act.
(2)Section 14(10)—insert—(d)change of parentage under a cultural recognition order.
121Amendment of s 15 (Change of name by registration)Section 15(5)—omit, insert—(5)Also—(a)changes to a person’s name under a parentage order or discharge order are not dealt with under this part but under sections 41D and 41E; and(b)changes to a person’s name under a cultural recognition order or the discharge of a cultural recognition order are not dealt with under this part but under sections 41DA and 41DB.
122Amendment of s 41 (Registering events other than adoptions or changes of parentage in register)(1)Section 41, heading, ‘adoptions or changes of parentage’—omit, insert—exempt matters(2)Section 41(1), from ‘adoption’ to ‘discharge order’—omit, insert—exempt matter(3)Section 41(10)—insert—exempt matter means—(a)an adoption; or(b)a change of parentage under a parentage order or discharge order; or(c)a change of parentage under a cultural recognition order or the discharge of a cultural recognition order under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
123Insertion of new ss 41DA and 41DBAfter section 41D—insert—41DA Registering cultural recognition order(1)This section applies if—(a)a cultural recognition order is made in relation to a person whose birth was registered in Queensland; and(b)the registrar receives an original copy of the cultural recognition order from the commissioner.
(2)The registrar must register the transfer of parentage by incorporating into the cultural recognition register the copy mentioned in subsection (1)(b).(3)Also, the registrar must close the person’s birth entry by—(a)noting on the birth entry (a closed entry) a reference to the registration mentioned in subsection (2); and(b)noting on the cultural recognition register entry a reference to the closed entry or entries.
(4)In this section—commissioner means the person appointed as commissioner under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.41DB Amending registers on making of discharge order(1)This section applies if—(a)the registrar has registered a cultural recognition order about a person under section 41DA; and(b)a discharge order is made in relation to the cultural recognition order; and(c)the registrar receives—(i)an original copy of the discharge order under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, section 79; and(ii)an application to register the discharge order.
(2)An application under subsection (1)(c)(ii) must contain the information prescribed by regulation.(3)The registrar must re-register the registrable event to which the closed entry relates by—(a)making a new entry in the birth register that includes—(i)all the information that was in the closed entry other than information about the making or discharge of the relevant cultural recognition order; and(ii)a note that the new entry was made under this section; and(iii)a reference to the entry closed under subsection (4); and
(b)noting on the closed entry—(i)that the person’s birth has been re-registered under this section; and(ii)a reference to the new entry made under paragraph (a).
(4)Also, the registrar must close the entry that was made to register the cultural recognition order by—(a)incorporating in the entry the original copy mentioned in subsection (1)(c)(i); and(b)noting on the entry—(i)that the relevant cultural recognition order has been discharged; and(ii)that the person’s birth has been re-registered under this section; and(iii)a reference to the new entry made under subsection (3)(a).
(5)The registrar may make any other notations in the register that the registrar considers necessary to ensure the register includes the correct information for the person.(6)In this section—closed entry, in relation to an entry in the register in relation to a person’s birth, means the entry for the person’s birth that was closed because of the relevant cultural recognition order.discharge order see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, schedule 1.relevant cultural recognition order means the cultural recognition order that was discharged by the order mentioned in subsection (1).124Amendment of s 44 (Obtaining information from the registrar)Section 44—insert—(13A)The registrar may only give requested information relating to an entry closed under section 41DA to—(a)a person who has been authorised under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, section 64; or(b)an officer of, or person acting for, a law enforcement body.
125Amendment of sch 2 (Dictionary)(1)Schedule 2—insert—cultural recognition order see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, schedule 1.(2)Schedule 2, definition registrable event—insert—(ca)a change of parentage under a cultural recognition order; or
(3)Schedule 2, definition relevant child register—insert—(d)the cultural recognition register.
Division 4Amendment of Criminal Code126Code amendedThis division amends the Criminal Code.127Amendment of s 222 (Incest)Section 222—insert—(5A)For subsection 5, a reference to an adoptive relationship includes a relationship of that type that came into existence as a result of the making of an adoption order under the Adoption Act 2009 regardless of whether the order has been discharged.(7B)Also, if a cultural recognition order is made under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, a reference in this section to an offspring or other lineal descendant, or a sibling or a parent includes a relationship of that type that—(a)existed before the making of the order; or(b)came into existence as a result of the making of the order regardless of whether the order has been discharged.
128Amendment of s 363 (Child-stealing)Section 363(3), definition parent—insert—(c)for a child whose parentage has been transferred under a cultural recognition order made under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020—a person who is a parent of the child under the order;
Division 5Amendment of Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012129Act amendedThis division amends the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012.130Amendment of s 15 (Meaning of spousal relationship)(1)Section 15(2)(b), example—omit.(2)Section 15—insert—(4)In this section—former parent includes—(a)a birth parent who stops being a parent of a child under the Surrogacy Act 2010, section 39(2)(b); and(b)a birth parent who stops being a parent of a child under a cultural recognition order made under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
Division 6Amendment of Domicile Act 1981131Act amendedThis division amends the Domicile Act 1981.132Amendment of s 8 (Domicile of certain children)(1)Section 8(4)—insert—(c)a cultural recognition order (also a parentage order) made under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
(2)Section 8(9)—insert—(c)a discharge order (also a discharge order) made under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
(3)Section 8—insert—(11)Despite the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, section 106, a reference in this section to a child who is adopted is taken not to include a reference to a child who is the subject of a cultural recognition order made under that Act. Division 7Amendment of Evidence Act 1977133Act amendedThis division amends the Evidence Act 1977.134Amendment of s 21AC (Definitions for div 4A)(1)Section 21AC—insert—cultural recognition order see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, schedule 1.(2)Section 21AC, definition prescribed relationship, paragraph (a), ‘or parentage order’—omit, insert—, parentage order or cultural recognition order Division 8Amendment of Guardianship and Administration Act 2000135Act amendedThis division amends the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000.136Amendment of sch 2 (Types of matters)Schedule 2, part 2, item 3—insert—(j)applying, or consenting to an application, for a cultural recognition order or applying for a discharge order under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
Division 9Amendment of Industrial Relations Act 2016137Act amendedThis division amends the Industrial Relations Act 2016.138Amendment of s 56 (Explanation of types of parental leave)Section 56(2)—insert—(d)cultural parent leave, for an employee who is a cultural parent under a cultural recognition order under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.Note—Cultural parent leave may be short (in connection with the transfer of parentage to the cultural parent) or long (to enable the employee to be responsible for the care of the child).
139Amendment of s 57 (Definitions for division)(1)Section 57—insert—cultural parent see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, section 10.cultural parent leave means short cultural parent leave or long cultural parent leave.cultural recognition order see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, schedule 1.intended cultural parent means a cultural parent whose application for a cultural recognition order has not been decided.long cultural parent leave means leave taken by an employee to enable the employee to be responsible for the care of a child whose parentage is transferred to the employee under a cultural recognition order.short cultural parent leave means leave taken by an employee who is responsible for the care of a child after the child’s parentage is transferred to the employee under a cultural recognition order. (2)Section 57, definition child—insert—(c)for cultural parent leave—a child who is under the age of 5 years, but does not include a child who, immediately before the child’s parentage was transferred to the employee, had been living with the employee for a continuous period of at least 6 months.
(3)Section 57, definition long parental leave—insert—(d)long cultural parent leave.
(4)Section 57, definition short parental leave—(d)short cultural parent leave.
140Insertion of new s 61A After section 61—insert—61A Entitlement to cultural parent leave(1)An employee who is a cultural parent under a cultural recognition order is entitled to—(a)a total of 8 weeks unpaid short cultural parent leave; or(b)an unbroken period of up to 52 weeks unpaid long cultural parent leave.
(2)The employee’s short cultural parent leave—(a)if the employee’s spouse is taking long cultural parent leave—may be taken concurrently with the employee’s spouse’s long cultural parent leave; and (b)may be taken in an unbroken period or broken periods; and(c)if the employee takes short cultural parent leave other than immediately after the transfer of the child’s parentage to the employee—must be taken for a minimum 2-week period.
141Amendment of s 62 (Maximum period of parental leave)Section 62(1)(a) and (b)—omit, insert—(a)beyond 52 weeks after—(i)the child was born; or(ii)the child was adopted; or (iii)the child started residing with the employee under the surrogacy arrangement; or(iv)the child’s parentage was transferred to the employee under a cultural recognition order; or
(b)if an application for an extension of parental leave under section 73 is agreed to—beyond 104 weeks after—(i)the child was born; or(ii)the child was adopted; or(iii)the child started residing with the employee under the surrogacy arrangement; or(iv)the child’s parentage was transferred to the employee under a cultural recognition order.
142Insertion of new s 66AAfter section 66—insert—66AEmployee notice—intention to take cultural parent leave(1)This section applies if an employee wants to take cultural parent leave.(2)The employee must give the employer—(a)for long cultural parent leave—written notice of intention to take the leave at least 10 weeks before the expected date when a cultural recognition order will be made transferring a child’s parentage to the employee (the expected parental transfer date); and(b)at least 4 weeks written notice of the dates on which the employee wants to start and end the leave.
(3)The employee must, before starting the leave, give the employer a statutory declaration by the employee stating—(a)the employee is an intended cultural parent; and(b)the expected parental transfer date; and(c)for long cultural parent leave—(i)the period of leave sought by the employee; and(ii)the period of any cultural parent leave sought by the employee’s spouse; and(iii)that the employee is seeking the leave because the employee is to be responsible for the care of the child.
143Amendment of s 71 (Employer to advise about parental leave entitlements)Section 71(1)—insert—(d)an employee is a cultural parent who is applying for a cultural recognition order.
144Amendment of s 78 (Cancelling parental leave)(1)Section 78(1)—insert—(e)a cultural recognition order transferring the parentage of a child to the employee is not made.
(2)Section 78(2)—insert—(e)a cultural recognition order transferring the parentage of a child to the employee is discharged.
145Amendment of s 80 (Working on a keeping in touch day during period of parental leave)Section 80(1)(c), after ‘surrogacy arrangement’—insert—or cultural recognition order146Insertion of new s 87AAfter section 87—insert—87A Special cultural recognition order leave(1)An employee who is a birth parent or a cultural parent under an application for a cultural recognition order is entitled to up to 2 days unpaid leave to prepare material and give to the commissioner information associated with the application.(2)In this section—birth parent see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, section 9.commissioner see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, schedule 1.147Amendment of s 91 (Dismissal because of pregnancy or parental leave)(1)Section 91(1)—insert—(ca)the employee is a cultural parent who has applied for a cultural recognition order or the child who is the subject of a cultural recognition order has started residing with the employee under the order; or
(2)Section 91(1)(ca) and (d)—renumber as (d) and (e).148Amendment of sch 5 (Dictionary)Schedule 5—insert—cultural parent for chapter 2, part 3, division 8, see section 57.cultural parent leave for chapter 2, part 3, division 8, see section 57.cultural recognition order for chapter 2, part 3, division 8, see section 57.intended cultural parent for chapter 2, part 3, division 8, see section 57.long cultural parent leave for chapter 2, part 3, division 8, see section 57.short cultural parent leave for chapter 2, part 3, division 8, see section 57. Division 10Amendment of Integrity Act 2009149Act amendedThis division amends the Integrity Act 2009.150Amendment of sch 1 (Statutory office holders for section 72C)Schedule 1—insert—Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020•the commissioner
Division 11Amendment of Payroll Tax Act 1971151Act amendedThis division amends the Payroll Tax Act 1971.152Amendment of s 14A (Exemption for parental, adoption or surrogacy leave)(1)Section 14A, heading, ‘or surrogacy leave’—omit, insert—, surrogacy or cultural parent leave(2)Section 14A(1) ‘or surrogacy leave’—omit, insert—, surrogacy leave or cultural parent leave(3)Section 14A(2)—insert—(d)the cultural parent leave is taken before or after a cultural recognition order is made transferring the parental rights and responsibility for a child to the employee.
(4)Section 14A(3)—insert—(e)not more than 14 weeks’ cultural parent leave for any 1 cultural recognition order.
(5)Section 14A(5)—insert—(e)for wages paid or payable for cultural parent leave—a statutory declaration by the employee stating a child has started residing with the employee under a cultural recognition order.
(6)Section 14A(7)—insert—cultural parent see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, section 10.cultural parent leave, for a cultural parent, means leave given to an employee in connection with a cultural recognition order transferring the parental rights and responsibility for a child to the employee, other than annual leave, recreation leave, sick leave or similar leave.cultural recognition order see the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, schedule 1.Division 12Amendment of Powers of Attorney Act 1998153Act amendedThis division amends the Powers of Attorney Act 1998.154Amendment of sch 2 (Types of matters)Schedule 2, part 2, item 3—insert—(j)applying, or consenting to an application, for a cultural recognition order or applying for a discharge order under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
Division 13Amendment of Public Service Act 2008155Act amendedThis division amends the Public Service Act 2008.156Amendment of sch 1 (Public service offices and their heads)Schedule 1—insert—the Office of the Commissioner under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.commissioner under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020.
Division 14Amendment of Right to Information Act 2009157Act amendedThis division amends the Right to Information Act 2009.158Amendment of sch 3, (Exempt information)Schedule 3, item 12(1)—insert—•Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, section 102
Schedule 1Dictionarysection 7administrator means—(a)a person who is, or was, the commissioner; or(b)a person who is, or was, involved in the administration of this Act, including, for example—(i)an officer of the office; or(ii)a review officer; or(iii)a person appointed under section 19(1); or(iv)an officer or employee of the department whose services are made available to the commissioner under section 30(2).
Ailan Kastom means Island custom.Ailan Kastom child rearing practice see section 8.appellate court means the Court of Appeal.application for internal review see section 60(1).birth parent see section 9.Childrens Court judge see the Childrens Court Act 1992, section 3.commissioner means the person appointed as commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa) under section 11. confidential information, for part 10, see section 101.court means the Childrens Court constituted by a Childrens Court judge.criminal history, for a person, means—(a)the person’s criminal history as defined under the Criminal Law (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 1986; and(b)despite section 6 of that Act, includes, a conviction of the person to which the section applies.
cultural parent see section 10.cultural recognition order is an order made by the commissioner under section 58.discharge order see section 73(1).disclosure notice see section 18(1). dispensation order see section 52(1).guardian, of a person in relation to a particular matter, means the person’s guardian appointed under the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000, or a corresponding law of another State, for the matter.guidelines means the guidelines made under section 108.informed consent, of a person, means—(a)the person has capacity to consent; and(b)the consent is given freely and voluntarily.
informed person, for an application for a cultural recognition order, means a person who—(a)has knowledge and understanding of the specific Ailan Kastom child rearing practice that occurred in relation to the application; and(b)can, for the purpose of the application, verify that the practice occurred in accordance with Ailan Kastom.
internal review means a review conducted under section 61.notice of intention see section 57(1).office means the Office of the Commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa) established under section 26(1).other carer, of a child, means a person, other than the child’s birth parent or cultural parent, who has the right and responsibility to make decisions about the child’s daily care, under—(a)an Act, other than—(i)this Act; or(ii)the Child Protection Act 1999, if the person is certified as an approved foster carer or an approved kinship carer under that Act; or
(b)a law of the Commonwealth or another State; or(c)a court order; or(d)a testamentary instrument.
personal information, for part 10, see section 101.police commissioner means the commissioner of the police service.registrar means the registrar-general established under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003.relevant party for part 8, see section 72.reviewed decision see section 61(3).review officer see section 61(1).sacred, for part 10, see section 101.secret, for part 10, see section 101.stated party see section 48.© State of Queensland 2020