Apply to become a Justice of the Peace (JP)

Introduction

Justices of the Peace (JPs) provide a valuable and important service to communities and workplaces. In NSW, JPs are appointed for 5-year terms.

If you'd like to apply to become a JP, you need to register online first.

Eligibility

You must:

• be at least 18 years of age
• be able to establish that your appointment as a JP is required for your employment, or to fulfil a community-based need
• be nominated by a NSW Member of Parliament (MP)
• be an Australian citizen or a person who's entitled to vote at a general election for the Legislative Assembly
• be of good character
• consent in writing to confidential inquiries being made as to your suitability for appointment, including a criminal records check
• not be an undischarged bankrupt.

What you need

• a JP Online account
• your personal and contact details
• your proof of identity
• a passed JP Knowledge Test (which is based on the JP Handbook information)
• a nomination from a NSW Member of Parliament (MP)
• contact details for 2 character references 
• a description of the community-based need for your appointment, if you're applying to be a community JP
• a letter on your employer’s letterhead, if you're applying as part of an employment need
• evidence that you have legally changed your name and use that name, if applicable. 

How to apply

1. Select the 'Apply online' button.
2. Select the 'Register for JP Online' button.
3. Register for your JP Online account by entering your personal details and confirming your eligibility to become a JP.
4. Take the JP Knowledge Test in your JP Online account.
5. Gather the required documents and information. 
6. Log in to your JP Online account and select 'Apply to become a JP' to complete your application. 

If you're unable to apply online, contact JP appointment services. 

What happens next

• If an MP agrees to nominate you, your application will be sent directly to the Department of Communities and Justice for processing.
• It will take a minimum of 12 weeks to process your application from the date the MP forwards your application to the Department of Communities and Justice.
• If your application is successful, you'll need to take the Oaths of Office at a NSW Local Court and comply with the Code of Conduct for JPs in NSW.

More information

You can also use JP Online to:

• apply for reappointment
• submit a request to notify of a change in circumstances
• check your JP number and expiry date
• update your JP Public Register details
• order JP products.