Over 50 years of JPs service and counting

20 October 2022

NSW Justices of the Peace (JPs) are being honoured for achieving over half a century of service at special ceremonies at NSW Parliament House, with the first being held today.

Attorney General Mark Speakman said more than 300 JPs in the ‘Class of 71’ have been witnessing and certifying documents for members of the community for more than five decades

“These JPs have demonstrated remarkable dedication to their role, starting their tenure at a time when the world’s first email was sent, bands like the Eagles and Queen just formed, and seat belts were made compulsory in NSW,” Mr Speakman said

“These ceremonies are an acknowledgement of the many years of service these JPs have been providing to people at critical points in their lives – whether that be applying for passports, needing a witness for a statutory declaration or affidavit, or when they are buying and selling property.

The youngest in the ‘Class of 71’ is 72 years old and the oldest is still providing JP services at age 93. In total, they have clocked more than 16,000 years of service since they took their oath. More than 3,300 long-serving JPs have received the certificates since they were introduced in December 2012.

“JPs attending these ceremonies will also receive a hard copy of the new JP Handbook which has been updated in line with recent changes in how JPs carry out their functions.

“The 2022 JP Handbook details new processes such as enabling legal documents to be witnessed remotely via audio visual technology and changes to acceptable forms of identity to include Digital Drivers Licences.”

Last year’s ceremony had to be postponed due to the pandemic. Two more golden jubilee ceremonies will be held at Parliament House on 9 November and 24 November 2022.

There are approximately 72,000 registered JPs in NSW. To find out more about volunteering as a JP visit www.jp.nsw.gov.au.

Download media release: Over 50 years of JPs service and counting  (PDF, 153.9 KB)