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​Becoming a JP

By volunteering to become a Justice of the Peace (JP) you will provide services to your community or place of employment.

Information for new JP applicants. - We appreciate your interest to become a JP, however due to the current circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are unable to accept applications for JP appointment. You can still register for a JP Online account and attempt the JP Knowledge Test, however you will not be able to submit an application at this time.

This does not apply if you are an existing JP applying for reappointment.

To become a JP you will need to:

For more details visit the appointment process.

To complete the JP appointment application you will need:

  • proof of identity documents 
  • proof of Australian citizenship or eligibility to vote in NSW elections
  • contact details for two character referees
  • if you are applying to be a community JP, demonstrate the need for your appointment
  • if you are applying as part of an employment need, a scanned copy of a supporting letter signed by your employer on the letterhead of your company/organisation, demonstrating the need for your appointment.

Visit Step 3: Complete the JP appointment application for more detailed information about the specific documentation required.

Are you eligible to become a JP?

To be eligible for appointment as a NSW Justice of the Peace (JP), you must:

  • be at least 18 years of age
  • be nominated by a NSW Member of Parliament (MP)
  • be an Australian citizen or a person who is entitled to vote at a general election for the Legislative Assembly
  • be of good character
  • not be an undischarged bankrupt.

To find out more about eligibility and character, you can read the Guidelines on the appointment of Justices of the Peace: assessing eligibility and good character [PDF 44KB] issued by the Attorney General.