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Cultural recognition: applying for a dispensation order

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Disclaimer: Torres Strait families e warned that the following information might go gud sensitive details blo one sacred practice, protected under Ailan Kastom. All pikinini no should look this information without a parent or guardian where thempla.

When you go apply for a cultural recognition order, the birth parents and cultural parents muss gree


Sometimes you no go get all them parents for sign the cultural recognition order application. You can still apply for a cultural recognition order – only e go look different. In this case you might go need for apply to the court for a dispensation order.

Wanem the dispensation order?

The dispensation order e one court order wer e allow you for apply for a cultural recognition order without needing a person’s legal consent.

When might I need a dispensation order?

You might need a dispensation order if:

  • the birth father e unknown or can’t be found
  • the born mother cant safely contact the birth father
  • a birth parent of cultural parent bin pass away
  • everyone one no gree for this one 

Wis kine I go apply for a dispensation order?

  • A awyer from Legal Aid Queensland can give you legal advice and help you wer this process
  • A lawyer can ready your application for a dispensation order and can go court wer you either by phone, video or in person.
  • The Commissioner’s office can meke decisions in some situations if e no gud consent.

What if I go need support?

The Office blo the Commissioner Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa e offer cultural support right thru the process.

If you wande find out more information about applying for a cultural recognition order, contact the Office blo the Commissioner Meriba Omasker

1800 571 102
www.ocmokk.qld.gov.au

To find out more about dispensation orders tok to a legal service provider wasse Legal Aid Queensland, ATSILS or QIFVLS

1300 65 01 43
www.legalaid.qld.gov.au

Last updated 3 March 2025