Substitute signatories for Blue Card Services forms

If an individual does not have legal or physical capacity to complete a blue card application or other form—whether on paper or online —another person may apply on their behalf.

Who can be a substitute signatory?

Adults

Formal substitute signatory

• An attorney for personal matters appointed under an enduring power of attorney or an advance health directive.
  • Note: Attorneys designated for financial decisions cannot complete a Blue Card Services form.
• A guardian appointed under the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000 (GA Act).
• The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) or a court.

Informal substitute signatory

• A member of the adult’s existing support network who is not an attorney, administrator, or guardian for the specific matter.

Children

• A parent, guardian, or authorised representative can apply on behalf of a child.
• If the child has capacity, it’s best to also obtain their consent. Both the child and the parent/guardian should complete the application form together.

Required documentation

The substitute signatory must provide the below documentation to allow us to provide information regarding the application. If an applicant has the legal capacity but cannot sign or mark the form, the process for informal substitute signatory applies.

For attorneys

• Confirm the form is being completed on behalf of an applicant who lacks capacity.
• Provide a certified copy of identification (such as a driver’s license, passport, birth certificate).
• Include a certified copy of the Enduring Power of Attorney document.

For guardians

• Indicate that the form is being completed on behalf of the applicant who lacks capacity.
• For parents:
  • Provide a Medicare card or the child’s birth certificate.
  • Include proof of the guardian’s identity (such as a driver’s license, passport, birth certificate).
• For legal guardians of adults or children:
  • Provide the relevant guardianship document.
  • Include proof of the guardian’s identity (such as a driver’s license, passport, birth certificate).

For an informal substitute signatory

• Confirm that the applicant instructed them to complete the form.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Provide identification for verification purposes (such as a driver’s license, passport, birth certificate).

Note: An informal signatory’s action may be ratified by QCAT if necessary.

Submission instructions

• Paper applications: Attach all required documents to the form and submit to us.
• Online applications: Email supporting documents to processing@bluecard.qld.gov.au.