Vol 7 no 1 autumn 10

VOLUME V OLUME 7 r NUMBER r NUMBER 1 r autumn a umn 2010 aut

QJA - ESTABLISHED IN 1918 Official Magazine of the Queensland Justices Association

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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Presentation to our Patron BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Left - Mr Raymond Young OAM Vice President presents a bound copy of the new QJA “Guide to JP Practice in Queensland” to our Patron the Hon Paul de Jersey, AC, Chief Justice of Queensland.

CONTACT US

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PRESIDENT’S REPORT NEWS IN BRIEF

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MR ROD CARTER 50 YEAR SERVICE AWARD

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GREG CUTHBERT A REGISTRAR’S ACHIEVEMENTS

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KRISTINA ROMER OUR NEW REGISTRAR

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ACJA CONFERENCE TASMANIA

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What is QCAT?

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ROLL OF HONOUR NEW MEMBERS & VALE

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END OF YEAR FUNCTIONS

Right – Mr Raymond Young OAM, the Hon Paul de Jersey and Mr Ray Burrows QJA President and Chairman of the Board discuss the new JP Guide.

Changing of the Guard REGISTRAR DEPARTS At the State Office Christmas function in December our outgoing Registrar – Greg Cuthbert – was farewelled after many years supporting the Members and Board of the QJA. Greg has been a familiar voice on the phone and a welcoming smile when attending the office and his loud ties and stylish shirts will be missed by many.

Read more about Greg’s role and achievements while Registrar of the QJA on page 4.

STATE CONFERENCE CLEVELAND Cont’d

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MEMBERS Q&A

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BRANCH AND CONTACT GROUP DETAILS

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MERCHANDISE

REGISTRAR ARRIVAL

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HERITAGE BUILDING SOCIETY & QJA LAUNCH NEW COBRANDED CREDIT CARD

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ACADEMY OF CELEBRANCY AUSTRALIA

Please join the Board in welcoming Kristina Romer as the new Registrar of the QJA. Kristina has a Bachelor of Education, Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood), Diploma in Small Business Management and a Cert IV Training and Assessment – More about Kristina on page 5.

Serving JPs & C.decs throughout Queensland

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Our Patron The Hon Paul de Jersey, AC, Chief Justice of Queensland

Board of Directors PRESIDENT & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Mr Ray Burrows JP (Qual)

Telephone (07) 3822 1366 Mobile 0409 499 016 Email ray.burrows@qja.com.au

VICE PRESIDENTS Mr Bob Pilkington JP (Qual)

Telephone (07) 3812 1865 Mobile 0438 121 865 Email bob.pilkington@qja.com.au

Mrs Marian Vierveyzer JP (Qual)

Telephone (07) 3389 2481 Mobile 0415 418 320 Email marian.vierveyzer@qja.com.au

Mr Raymond Young OAM JP (Qual) Telephone (07) 4927 4155 Mobile 0405 624 648 Email ray.young@qja.com.au

DIRECTORS Mr John Gordon JP (Qual) Mobile: 0415 589 047 Email: john.gordon@qja.com.au

Mr Doug Hull JP (Qual) Telephone: 4128 0924 Email: doug.hull@qja.com.au

Mrs Yvonne Jex JP (Qual) Mobile: 0449 043 100 Email: yvonne.jex@qja.com.au

Mr David Read JP (Qual) Telephone: 4152 3318 (AH) Mobile: 0405 252 135 Email: dave.read@qja.com.au

Mr Keith Revell JP (Qual) Telephone: (07) 3803 4337 Mobile: 0411 134 841 Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au

Dr Tony Sahama JP (Qual) Mobile: 0412 453 433 Email: tony.sahama@qja.com.au

Mr Keith Revell Sub-editor Ms Kristina Romer views expressed in articles & advertisements published in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views of the Queensland Justices Association or the Board of Directors.© Queensland Justices Association claims copyright in all material published in this Journal. No material may be copied or reproduced editor@qja.com.au Printed by Zink Print, PO Box 236, Kallangur. Phone 0404 082 231

STATE OFFICE 751 Stanley Street Woolloongabba Q 4102 Postal Address: PO Box 8419 Woolloongabba Q 4102 Telephone: (07) 3392 2455 Free call: 1800 061 423 Facsimile: (07) 3392 2955 Email: admin@qja.com.au 2

REGISTRAR

HELPFUL NUMBERS FOR JPS

Ms Kristina Romer JP (Qual)

Adult Guardian

1300 653 187

Customs Watch Dept of Justice & Attorney General Dept Families 24 hour crisis line Dept Foreign Affairs & Trade Dispute Resolution Centre Mental Health Orders (office hours) National Security Hotline Public Trustee

1800 06 1800 1300 301 147 (07) 3235 9999 (07) 3405 4799 1800 017 288 (07) 3835 1444 1800 123 400 1300 360 044

B.ED, B.TEC, Cert IV TAA

Office Hours: Mon - Fri 8.30am to 4.30pm

Website: www.qja.com.au

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

VOLUME 7 r NUMBER 1 r autumn 2010

President’s Report Dear Members, There has been a lot of activity taking place between the QJA and the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG). A meeting was held between available Board Directors, QJA Registrar, the Acting Director General, Executive Director Community Justices Services and the Registrar of the JP Branch on 23rd of December and again on the 14th January.

As a result of these meetings, a Memorandum of Understanding has been drawn up so that the QJA and the DJAG can work together in providing training and assistance to Queensland Justices of the Peace and Commissioner for Declarations. It is anticipated that this MOU will be signed in the near future. Four examinations will be provided at Queensland Court Houses with the exception of the Brisbane area where examinations will be conducted at the new DJAG Training Rooms at South Brisbane.

It is anticipated that all QJA students undertaking JP preparation training will only be required to complete one official Learning Guide which will be common across the State. This will remove duplication of effort for some students having to complete two Learning Guides as has occurred in the past. Some of the Branches are now preparing to offer the Course 39215QLD Preparation for Justices of the Peace (Qualified).

The Registrar of the JP Branch (DJAG) has suggested that the Department would be willing to supply a number of self inking and other stamps to QJA operated signing centres. The QJA Registrar has contacted the Secretaries of QJA Branches and Contact Groups to refresh the list of Signing Centres operated by Branches for this purpose.

The QJA is now moving towards a co-branded Visa Credit Card with Heritage Building Society and details will be covered in this edition of the Journal.

Also, the QJA Board of Directors has engaged the legal firm of Hall Payne Lawyers as Honorary Lawyers to provide advice to the Board if and when it is required.

All in all, it should be a busy year for everyone.

Ray Burrows President

News in Brief APOLOGY On page 9 of the Summer Journal we said that Mr John Grant was awarded a 50th Certificate. In fact it was Mr Rod Carter. Our sincere apologies to Mr Carter, but please accept our congratulations on a wonderful achievement. See later photo and article on Mr Carter’s award.

press over 150 people had already registered for the workshop. More about the workshop in the next issue of the Journal.

Facebook Our Facebook page now has over 50 registered members but we would like more. So please join us now. The aim of the page is for members to be able to interact with each other and collaborate. This is a restricted access page – you will need to advise the moderator that you wish to join.

Search for ‘Queensland Justices Association’ under Groups.

Journal Editor With the recent elevation of Ray Burrows to the duties of President, Ray has reluctantly relinquished his role as Editor of this illustrious publication. Keith Revell has agreed to take on the mantel of Journal Editor and while Ray has left big shoes to fill Keith has some experience with the production of a local Branch Newsletter – Keith is a new Director to the Board but a long time JP and well known to Logan Branch members as Chairman of the local group.

State Conference 2010 The new board is pleased to announce that the QJA State Conference for 2010 will be held in Hervey Bay on October 23rd. The Hervey Bay Branch are already in planning mode so watch this space for more details as they become available. Refer to the State Conference page on the QJA website for the latest updates.

Email Addresses We again encourage all members to keep us up to date with their email address, as we often send out messages at short notice using this form of communication. A recent notification to the membership using our email list resulted in hundreds returned as invalid.

Technical Bulletins from JP Branch The Justices of the Peace (JP) Branch of the Department of Justice and Attorney General has introduced a new Technical Bulletin (11/09) to assist Justices of the Peace (JPs) and Commissioners for Declarations (C.decs) regarding Muslim/Islamic women wearing the niqab (veil) or full burka and how Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations are able to satisfy themselves as to the identify of that person. The notice explains processes which can be followed when assisting women of Muslim/Islamic faith.

Refresher Workshops The Logan Branch held a very successful Refresher Workshop on Saturday February 27th. While this issue of the Journal was going to

A new Technical Bulletin (01/10) has also been issued regarding Witnessing Victim Assist Queensland applications for financial

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News in Brief assistance and funerals. On 1 December 2009 the Criminal Injury Compensation Unit was replaced by a new scheme for victims of crime in Queensland. A new unit, Victim Assist Queensland, has been established within the Department of Justice and Attorney-General to administer the scheme. The scheme focuses on assisting the recovery of victims of crime who have been injured as a result of an act of violence. Victims can now apply for financial assistance to cover the costs of goods and services required to assist their recovery.

A victim of a crime may be entitled to compensation from the offender.

Under Queensland law, the victim can ask the court to order the offender to pay them. If for some reason the court cannot order the offender to compensate the victim, or the offender can’t pay, the victim may be able to apply for funds, known as an ‘ex gratia payment’, directly from the State Government.

What is criminal injury compensation?

Criminal injury compensation is compensation for the injuries victims of crime receive as a result of violence committed directly against them (known as a personal indictable offence).

Criminal injury compensation was first introduced in Queensland in 1969.

From 1969 up until 17 December 1995, the legislation that governed criminal injury compensation was the Criminal Code Act 1899. In 1995, new legislation was introduced for victims of crime called the Criminal Offence Victims Act 1995 (referred to as COVA).

There are two forms that victims of crime can use to apply for financial assistance. Both the Financial Assistance Application (Form 1) and the Funeral Assistance Application (Form 2) require a Statutory Declaration to be witnessed by a Justice of the Peace, Commissioner for Declarations, Notary Public or a solicitor. This bulletin sets out the best practice for witnessing the forms.

These Technical Bulletins are available to download from the JP Branch website www.justice.qld.gov.au on the publications page.

JP (Qual) Exam dates

QJA JP PUBLICATION The response to the launch of the new publication “The Guide to JP Practice in Queensland” has been overwhelming, to such an extent that we are already preparing for another print run. Any amendments or updates to the publication will be freely available to members who have already purchased a copy.

Amendments and updates will be downloadable from the QJA website and announcements will be made in this Journal.

If you haven’t got your copy order one soon from State Office or talk to your local Branch and see if they have copies available for sale.

This professionally printed 108 page A4 size handbook features over 51000 words and 25 chapters of up to date information for the practising JP. It will be available to QJA members only and has been written and edited by experienced JPs and professionals working “in the industry”.

Mr Rod Carter 50 Years Service Rod became a JP at age 27 nominated by Mervyn Thackeray the Member for North Rockhampton. He was working for a company that needed its officers to witness documents and was involved in some big property deals. In the seventies he operated his own garage and service station business at Moura. The Manager of the ANZ Bank at Moura then and Rod were the only JP’s in the town and were called on in this little country mining town to act as magistrates by the local police. The cases most Mondays were miners who overindulged Saturday night and when each pleaded guilty they were fined then $5 if any turned up with a solicitor they were immediately referred to Rockhampton.

The Hon Peter Dowling MP Member for Redland presents 50 year service certificate to Mr Rod Carter

The Department of Justice and Attorney-General will be offering the following Justices of the Peace (Qualified) examinations in 2010.

Exam dates for 2010 Date Thursday 14 January Saturday 10 April Thursday 15 July Saturday 23 October

Time 6:00pm - 9:00pm 9:00am - 12:00pm 6.00pm - 9.00pm 9:00am - 12:00pm

Justices of the Peace exams will be held at your local courthouse (except for Brisbane). The Brisbane JP Branch will conduct examinations, to register call 1300 301 147.

Refer to the JP Branch website www.justice.qld.gov.au “Becoming a JP” page for more information and to download copies of previous years sample exam papers.

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Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

No convictions were ever recorded as most of the miners were customers of Rod’s and the ANZ Bank. The most interesting case was when the police came round at 2.00am and a lady who had been fighting with her husband was found dead in her bed and the local Doctor would not sign a death certificate without an autopsy.

The husband refused to release the body and Rod had to sign a warrant to take the body from the husband and send her to Biloela for the necessary examination. They threw the poor lady into the back of the Primary Industries’ utility and were back by lunch time with the verdict that she had died of pneumonia. Rod said “It’s been an honour to be of service to the community in the capacity of a JP for over 50 years”.

Congratulations Rod.

VOLUME 7 r NUMBER 1 r autumn 2010

Greg Cuthbert, Achievements of a Registrar As we announced in the last edition of this journal, our previous State Registrar, Greg Cuthbert, advised the Board that he would not be renewing his employment contract for 2010. As some of you are now aware, in late 2009 Greg accepted an offer to return to a middle management role in the education sector.

In this edition, we feel it is timely to reflect on the demands of the position of QJA State Registrar, and acknowledge Greg’s indisputable role in the advancement of the QJA over the past three years – such advancements benefit all members.

Each of you would have some level of contact with State Office through initial admission as a QJA member, annual subscription payments, advice on the execution of JP/C Dec duties, ordering QJA merchandise etc. However, you may not appreciate that the State Registrar’s responsibility is akin to being the manager of a small business. Continual improvement in services to members is vital to the organisation’s survival, and ways must be found to do this in the most cost effective way.

This means that the State Registrar needs to be self-directed with skills in problem solving, skills in bookkeeping, skills in the effective use of technology to improve member services and efficiently manage all administrative functions, and an understanding of the legislative requirements that need to be complied with by the organisation (to do with issues like GST, human resource management etc). Also, the State Registrar is Company Secretary for the QJA (being a company limited by guarantee), so the incumbent is responsible for attending to a range of obligations under the Corporations Act 2001.

Some of the lasting reminders of Greg’s significant achievements for the QJA over the past three years are – • an automated annual subscription payment process - enabling your subscription moneys to be receipted and invested on a more timely basis; • the new comprehensive Guide to JP Practice, only available to QJA members – developed and published by Greg with the invaluable assistance and support from the directors and a number of QJA members; • establishment of the QJA as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) – confirming the quality and credibility of the QJA’s training activities; and • modernised QJA administrative policies, constitution and branch by-laws – facilitating improved governance across the organisation.

Greg’s previous work experience and qualifications obviously equipped him with the aptitude and self-motivation for many of the demands of the State Registrar position. Greg’s first tertiary qualification was a Bachelor

of Arts (specialising in Economics), acquired after working with the National Australia Bank.

Before returning to university in 1993 to complete a post-graduate Diploma of Education, Greg worked in the Civil Aviation Authority (as it was then known). There’s also a list of other places (including the University of Queensland and Expo 88) where Greg worked while completing both those tertiary qualifications.

Greg and his wife, Alison, became members of the QJA soon after they each became a JP(Qual) in 2001.

Prior to being employed by the QJA in early 2007, Greg had 13 years’ experience teaching (and implementing) a range of business/legal studies subjects in well known private schools, the last five years being in a middle management role. During most of these 13 years, Greg also held positions on regional Accounting review panels for the Queensland Studies Authority, with quite a number of years as regional panel chair.

While at the QJA, a substantial part of Greg’s leisure time was devoted to studying for a Masters degree in Professional Accounting (which has now been completed). Therefore, he returns to the education sector with more letters to add to his post-nominals. The QJA directors wish Greg well for the future and look forward to continuing the friendships that were built during his role as Registrar.

Kristina Romer – Our new Registrar Born in Yorkshire, England, Kristina went to school and TAFE in Sydney. Her early career was in marketing and advertising with Arnott’s Biscuits and later Clemenger Advertising before heading off for overseas adventures. The excitement of Expo 88 drew her back to Brisbane where she undertook teacher and education degrees. Although loving working with children, Kristina began training adults including work experience, traineeships, tertiary and post-graduate placements. She was part of the working party to shape and implement the Accreditation Process for children’s care services and steered childcare centres through their accreditation process and reviews.

Kristina held management roles in small businesses or sectors within the health industry where she implemented procedures and policies for Quality Assurance and Accreditations. Kristina is a long term volunteer within the community using her marketing skills for fundraising and supporting volunteers in projects such as UNHCR for children’s vaccination, establishment member of a palliative care organisation, honorary treasurer of a professional organisation.

As a JP (Qual) and member of the QJA, Kristina served two terms on the Appeals Committee. Kristina lives with husband Gary, and in her spare time (which she has now the ‘kids’ are grown) she likes to play Contract Bridge. She is delighted to have the opportunity to support QJA members and pursue growth opportunities for the Association.

ACJA Conference in Tasmania Report by Doug Hull.

The Conference commenced on Friday morning with a sight-seeing trip for delegates and their partners. This was one of the highlights of the weekend as the catering was superb and trip was very interesting. The first official function was an evening at reception at Government House – I remember this building from my early youth (6 year old) but only from afar. To see it up close was impressive and to recognise that it still has a moat (but no drawbridge), stone gargoyles set in the eaves and a ballroom

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

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that would be fit for any QJA Board meeting (I’ll send some pics when I get them off my phone) or State Conference.

Saturday morning, the Conference business was opened by the Governor of Tasmania (Lieutenant Governor The Hon. Justice Ewan Crawford) and was followed later by the Chief Justice for Tasmania as guest speaker who gave a presentation on “Therapeutic Sentencing”. “The topic of Therapeutic Sentencing described what the Tasmanians are doing to reduce the number of people being incarcerated. Generally, the accused are remanded off to rehabilitation courses and training so they don’t wind up with a record.”

During the committee phase of the Conference, nominations were called to form committees who were to investigate various subjects and report back by the end of April 2010.

The committees were to look at: • Justice of the Peace training • The duties of the Justice of the Peace • The appointment of Justices of the Peace across all member Jurisdictions.

Bob Pilkington volunteered for the committee on Justice of the Peace Duties while Doug Hull volunteered for the committee on Justice of the Peace Training. Doug will report on his committee findings when the report is complete.

It is of note that the only other Queensland representative (Mr Errol Neale from the Association of Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations Inc – based in Townsville) volunteered for the committee on the Appointment of Justices of the Peace – we were the only State with multiple Associations to have more than one Association volunteer for anything.

In discussions with Errol, we found that his Association has goals, aims and visions similar to the QJA and was thus very supportive of our initiatives.

Who is our local volunteer celebrity?

On Wednesday, January 20, Logan City Council honoured seven remarkable community heroes at its Australia Day Awards dinner at the Beenleigh Events Centre. The awards evening was an opportunity for Council to recognise the achievements of some of the city’s outstanding residents. Logan Mayor, Councillor Pam Parker, said the Australia Day Awards were a highlight of the year for her personally and for the city as a whole.

Geoff is in the centre of the back row. Geoff is a regular at the Logan Branch meetings and is involved in many community organisations. Our congratulations to Geoff – well deserved.

What is QCAT? The establishment of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) was announced by the Premier, the Honourable Anna Bligh MP, on 12 March 2008. QCAT began its operations on 1 December 2009 amalgamating 23 of the state’s tribunals and bodies into one, providing a single gateway through which the community can access justice.

QCAT makes decisions for a number of matters including: • guardianship and administration matters for adults • residential tenancy disputes • debt disputes for amounts up to and including $25,000, for example money lent and not repaid • consumer and trader disputes for amounts up to and including $25,000 arising out of a contract for the supply of goods and services • other minor civil disputes including property damage and dividing fence disputes valued up to and including $25,000 • domestic and commercial building disputes • matters affecting children and young people including reviewing child protection orders, adoption applications and bluecard applications • anti-discrimination matters • occupational regulation matters including disciplinary and licencing matters • retail tenancy disputes.

The following tribunals were amalgamated into QCAT on 1 December 2009 and no longer exist: • Anti-Discrimination Tribunal • Appeal tribunals formed under the Local Government Act • Children Services Tribunal • Commercial and Consumer Tribunal • Fire Panel of Referees • Fisheries Tribunal • Guardianship and Administrative Tribunal • Health Practitioners Tribunal • Independent Assessor under the Prostitution Act 1999 • Legal Practice Tribunal • Misconduct Tribunal • Nursing Tribunal • Racing Appeal Tribunal • Retail Shop Leases Tribunal • Small Claims Tribunal • Surveyors Disciplinary Committee • Teachers Disciplinary Committee • Valuers Registration Committee • Veterinary Tribunal.

From December 1 2009, QCAT reviews a range of decisions which were previously reviewed by: • the Supreme Court • the District Court • the Magistrates Court • other statutory bodies including the Gaming Commission and Information Commissioner.

We are very pleased (and proud) to advise that Geoff Smith a longstanding QJA member was awarded the Frank Lenz Memorial Award for Volunteer of the year at the Logan Australia Day awards on Wednesday January 20th.

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Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

JP’s and C.Decs need to be aware that a number of new forms are being introduced to replace those used by the previous bodies. Members should read each new form carefully to ensure they fully understand their obligations and duties.More information can be obtained from the QCAT website www.qcat.qld.gov.au

VOLUME 7 r NUMBER 1 r autumn 2010

End of Year Functions Inner North Brisbane Branch (pictured left) celebrated their end of year function at the Oasis Everton Park on the 4th of November. Pictured below are Irene Johnson, Delma and John Sherrington enjoying themselves at the function.

Leo Evans and Gloria Roughan catch up.

Phyllus Roebuck and Robert Cross

QJA State OfďŹ ce held their end of year Christmas Function at Stanley Street on Friday December 11th.

This year special recognition was paid to long serving Directors who decided not to renominate for the Board at the recent elections. Bernice Lippiatt and Garry Franke were thanked for their contribution over many years of service to the QJA Members and Board and were presented with recognition plaques. Roger Kelly was unsuccessful in his re-nomination to the Board and was thanked (in his absence) for his contributions to the Board.

Garry Franke, Bernice Lippiatt receiving their recognition plaques from outgoing President Bob Pilkington and incoming President Ray Burrows.

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ROLL OF HONOUR The Association wishes to note the long service given by the following Members under their commission.

25 YEARS OF SERVICE MJ

Callanan

LL

Sakrewski

40 YEARS OF SERVICE J L

Stephen Maguire

G I

Brandon Coombes

B J

Coghill Wilson

D C

Harris Skarott

E R

Bergin Wyton

CA LC NM AD CW JH RE MS AL CM TC NM RR ZP R M BJ

Kirkpatrick Mills Cameron Marshall Chandler McGowan Cornish Ward McMahon Horton Zegenhage Scott Tilbury Grant Medew Thomas Slater

RJ M EJ GC BS BE D CJ B M PK ME RG PA

Jonsson Crealy Hewitt Wyndham Higgins Bindley Matson Weston MacCarthy Bradford-Evans Stringer Robertson McFarlane Clayton

WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS The following have joined the Association since the Summer 2009/2010 Journal: DS DJ GB TE B NA KE DG J RG JC MJ CL DA RJ CL J

Cowan Marshall Kleidon Rossi Kerle Coubrough Hollingsworth MacIlwraith Schulz Tom Bussenschut Drysdale Depledge Smith Marriage McIvor Cooke Howie

S FE CL KM JW KWP GB DV HJ LF KM AT P S BM N GJ

Gunton Schellenberg Bayliss Scoines Pearce Lee Kleidon Hooper Bunn Yow OAM Brown Blinco Ruberry Julian Suter McMaster Hewlett

AJ K LB SK JP GK JA J M MK SJ DE DA MM LP CD JJ

Souvan Beurskens Sterling Singh McDonald Belford Plunkett Turner Kotowki Gunn Palmer Finlay McCormick Lui Mee Lanyons-Owen Brooks

VALE Glenise Kaye Doessel of Mundubbera (??-2010) Appointed as a JP (Qual) and joined QJA on 16 February 1977.

Graham Underwood of Carindale (1936-2009) Appointed as a JP (Qual) 23rd January 2009 and became a QJA member on 23rd March 2009.

Thomas Neil Callaghan BEM (30th October 1915 – 2nd January 2010) Thomas was a True Gentleman and My Mentor – By David Read JP (Qual.) QJA Director On the 2nd of January the Queensland Justice Association sadly lost its longest serving member. Tom Callaghan was born in Bundaberg on the 30th of Oct, 1915.

Tom was the youngest of five children and spent his school years at Rosedale and up until his death he was the oldest living former student. On the 7th of May 1941 Tom married Evelyn Mary Purtle and they raised five children in the family home at Rosedale.

Tom was best known as an auctioneer and real estate agent and conducted many sales throughout the district with the sold stock having to be driven by horseback to the nearest railhead. He became a Justice of the Peace in Queensland in 1947. Tom was also awarded the British Empire Medal in 1980 for his charitable work within the community and services to the cattle industry. In 1995 he was awarded life membership to the Queensland Justice Association and until his passing he was the longest serving QJA member. Tom had dedicated his life to the local community and by becoming a Justice of the Peace. This was just another way for him to assist the community that he loved.

The Queensland Justice Association was in the process of acknowledging Tom’s length of service when we heard of his passing. We decided to continue with this acknowledgment by presenting to his family the certificate of long service that was to be presented to Tom before his passing. As an organisation we appreciate the amount of time and dedication Tom has shown throughout his life for both the Queensland Justice Association and the local community.

Members should note that the Roll of Honour for 25 and 40 years of service relates only to QJA Members. Members wishing to receive the 25 years of distinguished service certificate as a Justice of the Peace for the State of Queensland should contact the Justice and Attorney Generals Department, JPs’ Branch on telephone 1300 301 147 or email jp@justice.qld.gov.au.

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Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

VOLUME 7 r NUMBER 1 r autumn 2010

QUEENSLAND JUSTICES ASSOCIATION STATE CONFERENCE - CLEVELAND Continued from the Summer Journal.

Capacity is a three part test. You are important “gate keepers” in your role in witnessing EPAs and AHDs. You are obviously going to meet people who cannot communicate. The first two things that you will have to do is to ask whether they understand the nature and affect of what they are doing and are they freely and voluntarily making decisions to give their legal identity to someone else.

The tribunal can make decisions on where people will live, who they live with, who they have contact with, what services they will receive and what health care they need. When they lose capacity we can make decisions for them. Three years ago we were appointed to look after people 65 and over who have dementia. I think that older people who have capacity and have the opportunity to enjoy a full life should be able to use EPAs and AHDs to choose someone to make decisions when they are unable to do so for themselves.

Ms Dianne Pendergast, the Adult Guardian.

Ms Dianne Pendergast, the Adult Guardian advised delegates that what you do is very important to the Adult System. The work that you do in shopping centres and court houses around Queensland, witnessing EPAs and AHDs is fundamental to the whole Guardianship in Queensland. The work that you do to ensure that adults have the capacity to sign those documents and that they are not unduly influenced at the time they sign those documents is one of the most critical “gate keeping” in the whole system.

We don’t know how many documents are being signed in Queensland, but there are a lot. However, that is irrelevant. There are two things we have got to remember. Firstly, we are living in a community where the population is rapidly ageing and the infrastructure to support the ageing population is insufficient. People will need to make decisions who will be making decisions for them later on. The second thing to remember is because we sign EPAs and AHDs, we are giving our legal identity to someone else and it is absolutely critical that you understand your role to ensure that the adult you see is happy to give away that legal identity.

We will only become involved in serious matters which come to our attention. There are situations where things will slip through as a result of abuse and you will participate on the panel. I am not going to patronise you and tell you how to complete those documents, but will talk about what I do.

Firstly, you need to know that the Adult Guardian is a independent body which really means it is not part of the Department but reports to parliament and has an independent decision making role. We need to be independent as we make decisions that affect people’s lives. We only make decisions in relation to health and adult capacity. Capacity involves the understanding of the nature and the affects of the decision we are making. The second is that you are able to freely and voluntarily make that decision. Thirdly you must be able to communicate that decision that you make. Ms Pendergast gave an example where a young person involved in a car smash and whose body was not responsive to his brain.

Because he could understand but could not communicate in any way, the Adult Guardian made the decision to provide support for him.

Having said that, where a person has no one in their life or there is conflict in the family, the Guardian can be appointed as the attorney in EPAs and AHDs and currently the office holds a 1000 of those. If a child is born with a disability, it doesn’t matter if the child turns 18 or not, they are ultimately unable to make their own decisions. Also where adults have absolutely no one in their lives, the tribunal can make decisions for them.

The Adult Guardian has an investigative role to play as well. People do not have to go to the tribunal as the guardian can investigate claims of abuse, neglect or exploitation as the guardian is an inspector of adults or adults who have lost their capacity. In the last financial year the office received 3,000 enquiries from people who had concerns with people being abused or neglected. Ultimately, if a EPA could be used to abuse someone, the Guardian will suspend operation of that document. The Public Trustee steps in make financial decisions and the Adult Guardian steps in to make personal decisions. Then the Administration Tribunal makes a decision who should be the decision maker.

Ms Pendergast said it is important that the work that you do in witnessing these documents coming to you are being witnessed appropriately and the person before you has the capacity to sign the EPA or AHD. The Guardian’s Office took 3,000 calls last year, 300 were investigated and 25 powers of attorney were suspended. She went on to say that they would like to assume that most people are doing the right thing, but the number of people not doing the right thing is greater than what is known.

In closing, Ms Pendergast advised JPs to ensure that clients have the capacity to sign the documents and to ensure that they are not under duress. If JPs have concerns they can ring the enquiries line at the Adult Guardian Office to seek assistance or to report any concerns.

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Ms Tracy-Lynne Geysen, Principal TLG Lawyers

Senior Constable Nigel Johns, Wynnum District Child Protection & Investigation Unit.

Ms Tracy Lynne-Geysen opened her session by explaining that BLEATS was Brisbane Lawyers Educating and Advocating Tougher Sentences.

She went on to say that BLEATS started work with the intention to end animal cruelty and improve penalties for cruelty and neglect offences and as a result met the RSPCA. BLEATS was officially launched in October 2007, starting with a petition and a web site. A press release was sent to solicitors, barristers, HR managers of law firms, friends and family. Mr Graeme Page, Senior Counsel is BLEATS honorary patron.

BLEATS was invited to meet the Chief Magistrate and to speak at the Magistrate’s Conference. The BLEATS panel currently has 51 barristers, including 3 senior counsel, 84 solicitors and 69 administration staff. This organisation has led to TLG Lawyers practising in animal law which covers:

“The history of the Queensland Police Service Child Protection & Investigation Unit and the role of the Justice of the Peace when assisting investigators”

• • • •

Dangerous dog cases.

Pet custody.

Estate planning for pets.

Vet negligence.

Ms Geysen said animal law that she will be focussing on includes regulation of ‘dangerous dogs’, body corporate exclusion of pets, and the management of unwanted dogs and cats, veterinary liability for malpractice, estate planning for pets and pet ‘custody’ disputes.

In starting up in this area of law she has been greatly assisted by Voiceless and in particular Katrina Sharman, legal counsel of Voiceless, whose mission statement is to ‘bring the institutionalised suffering of animals to the forefront of Australia’s agenda; ensuring that animal protection is the next great social justice movement.’ Fifteen or so years ago people scoffed at environmental law as an area of law and look how huge that has now become, so this is what I am hoping and expecting for animal law in Australia.

Mr Steven White of Griffith University, Queensland is one of the first lecturers in Australia to lecture in animal law. He will be joining BLEATS as the animal law consultant.

In closing, Ms Geysen hopes to work with the legislative side of the animal welfare debate in the future.

10

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

Senior Constable Nigel Johns, Wynnum District Child Protection & Investigation Unit in opening gave an overview of the Child Protection & Investigation Unit (CPIU) which commenced operation as the Juvenile Aid Bureau (JAB) in 1963. Initially staffed by two officers, the JAB was responsible for reducing instances of juvenile delinquency allowing police to work better with problem children. This often involved officers attending children’s homes with the consent of their parents and addressing problem behaviour. Within six years, the unit had expanded to a staff of 12 officers having dealt with approximately 3,500 cases.

During the 1970’s, the JAB was temporarily moved to the control of the Department of Children’s Services however returned permanently to the QPS in 1977. By 1983, staffing had increased to 92 officers and developments in juvenile justice continued with the introduction of the Juvenile Justices Act 1992 (QLD). This Act formalised a number of procedures employed by the JAB including the cautioning of children and the diversion of children away from the court system. In 2006, the JAB formally changed its name to the CPIU to more accurately reflect the work being undertaken by the unit. There are now more than 45 CPIU offices throughout Queensland staffed by several hundred investigators.

The role of the CPIU involves the investigation of offences committed by or against children including incidents of sexual assault, child abuse, and other related serious criminal offences. The CPIU continues to work on the principles of the Juvenile Justices Act 1992 of diverting children away from the courts by cautioning young offenders, referring children to Youth Justice Conferences, or where necessary commencing formal proceedings.

The CPIU achieves its goals through the gathering of testimonial and physical evidence. At times, it is necessary for investigators to seek the assistance of Justices of the Peace (JP) in gathering evidence. This can include the use of JP’s to assist with interviews of young persons, and the witnessing of other documents including Objections to Bail and Oaths of Service. Investigators also rely on JP’s for the swearing of Search Warrants when seeking physical evidence such as child exploitation material (child pornography), clothing or bedding, stolen property, and drugs. In closing Senior Constable said as with any investigation, it is

VOLUME 7 r NUMBER 1 r autumn 2010 paramount that correct procedure is followed to ensure that any evidence obtained is admissible during the court process.

For further information, please contact Johns.NigelA@police.qld.gov.au.

Association will benefit in a monetary manner which will then go into the Association funds which in turn would be used to support operations of the Association besides the membership contributions. The Heritage personnel in attendance were very impressed with the professionalism of the Association in the organising and running of the conference.

Mr Pilkington thanked Mr George Dodds and Ray Burrows and their team for the job of organising the conference. This was the largest attendance the QJA has ever had.

He announced to delegates that as from the 21st August, the legislation under the Money Laundering Act had been changed so that Commissioners for Declarations were now able to certify/sign superannuation documents.

There was still a requirement to print their full name under their signature, use their seal and apply their registration number.

With that Mr Pilkington officially closed the conference.

MEMBERS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Mr Bob Pilkington, President of the Queensland Justices Association.

Mr Pilkington advised delegates that he was standing down as President of the Association as he had been President for two terms and was now required under the Constitution to do so. He wished to thank members for their support while he undertook the job of President.

He also wished to thank Vice Presidents Mrs Bernice Lippiatt and Mr Gary Franke who are not standing for election again. Both have given many years of service to the Association.

He advised delegates that as there had been requests from members to upgrade the quality of training, the QJA undertook the task to apply for registration to become a Registered Training Organisation with the charter to offer the Nationally Accredited Queensland short course, 39215QLD Course in Preparation for Justice of the Peace (Qualified). Quality guidelines are undertaken by the Department of Education and Training and the Arts to ensure that all RTOs are adhering to all the guidelines under the Australian Quality Training Framework.

Following on from that the QJA has developed its own JP Guide which is to assist our members working in Queensland. The Association would appreciate feedback from members regarding the Guide. The Guide has been developed in such a way as a loose leaf document, with each chapter paginated separately. This will enable the QJA to change pages in each chapter as changes to procedures and legislation occurs. Members will be advised either on our web site or in future editions of the journal of any changes. Members will be able to down load the changes from the web site or by contacting the state office.

Mr Pilkington said that one person that he would also like to thank was Mr Gregory Cuthbert who wrote the Guide. Board members were involved in reading the contents several times before the Guide went to print.

Mr Pilkington went on to say that the Association has entered into an alliance with the Heritage Building Society. While the Association will promote Heritage in the journal, members will be able to benefit if they obtain loans , credit cards or bank with Heritage. The

(Q1)

JPs and CDecs are not permitted to charge for their services so a concern has been raised by members who are either agents or employees of Australia Post. As the volume of documents requiring Certification has increased ‘ten-fold’ in recent times, Australia Post will possibly implement a charge for each document Certified. This poses a dilemma for JPs/C.Decs who are directed by their employers to impose that charge.

(A1)

JPs and CDecs are definitely not allowed to charge for their services. Certain Commonwealth Officers are allowed to Certify certain documents in the course of their duties. The Justice & Attorney-General’s advice is for the employee/agent to separate their duties; to make it clear when they are acting as a Commonwealth Officer and when they will be acting as a JP/CDec. It was also suggested that the JP/CDec might be able to negotiate with their employer a time when/if they could carry out these duties during the course of their employment.

(Q2)

May I ask if a fax is accepted as an “original copy”? Can I certify a photocopy of a fax and say it is a true copy?

(A2)

A faxed version of a document is an original document in its own right for the purpose of certifying a true copy of the fax itself.

You will need to modify the wording on the usual certification of copy by saying “I certify that this is a true copy of a fax the original of which fax I have sighted”.

(Q3)

Is there anything in particular I should consider in issuing a Peace and Good Behaviour Summons?

(A3)

Peace and Good Behaviour complaints need special attention.

Unlike police complaints, when a person seeks to issue a Peace and Good Behaviour Summons, the defendant is not being accused of a “criminal offence”.

The standard of proof is different and the defendant is to some extent exposed by that standard not being “beyond a reasonable

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

11

MEMBERS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - Continued doubt”. The requirement for a defendant is to be of good behaviour for a period of time, if an order is made. No conviction is recorded.

The matter, is not a simple “civil” matter, however. The Magistrate (and in turn the Justice receiving the complaint and issuing the summons) must take into account the seriousness of the allegation made against the person against whom the complaint is laid.

(Q4) Can the principal of an EPA certify a true copy of their own EPA? (A4) Yes. I have attached the relevant section of the act for you, particularly section 45 s 4 of the Power of Attorney Act QLD 1998 45 Proof of enduring document

12

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

VOLUME 7 r NUMBER 1 r autumn 2010

QJA BRANCH SECRETARIES & CONTACT DETAILS BEAUDESERT CONTACT GROUP VALMAI MACAULAY beaudesert@qja.com.au

HERVEY BAY BRANCH RON JUST herveybay@qja.com.au

NOOSA BRANCH MARGARET LEWINS noosa@qja.com.au

Telephone: 5544 6460

Telephone: 4128 3628

Telephone: 5471 0617

INNER NORTH BRISBANE BRANCH BARRY TODD inb@qja.com.au

REDLAND CITY BRANCH RAY BURROWS redlandcity@qja.com.au

Telephone: 3354 1098

Telephone: 3822 1366

IPSWICH BRANCH ROBYN ROBERTSON ipswich@qja.com.au

ROCKHAMPTON BRANCH JANE COMOLLATTI rockhampton@qja.com.au

Telephone: 0416 065 888

Telephone: 4926 1659

LOGANHOLME CONTACT GROUP JOHN BAILEY loganholme@qja.com.au

SOUTH PINE BRANCH PHYLLIS HALL southpine@qja.com.au

Telephone: 3287 1516

Telephone: 3264 4436

LOGAN BRANCH KEITH REVELL logan@qja.com.au

TOOWOOMBA BRANCH RUTH ROCHE toowoomba@qja.com.au

Telephone: 3803 4337

Telephone: 4635 6727

MACKAY BRANCH CARMELO PASQUALE mackay@qja.com.au

TOWNSVILLE BRANCH ANNMAREE LUTHER townsville@qja.com.au

Telephone: 4942 4608

Telephone: 4773 4371

MAROOCHYDORE BRANCH JANET BARLTROP maroochydore@qja.com.au

WESTERN SUBURBS BRANCH GRAHAME TAINTON westsubs@qja.com.au

Telephone: 5456 2414

Telephone: 3279 0185

MT ISA CONTACT GROUP MEGAN HOUSDEN mtisa@qja.com.au

WYNNUM MANLY BRANCH DON HANN wynnummanly@qja.com.au

Telephone: 4749 0623

Telephone: 3390 4278

BUNDABERG BRANCH DAVID DEMPSTER bundaberg@qja.com.au Telephone: 0439 258 770

CAIRNS (CONTACT GROUP) YVONNE JEX cairns@qja.com.au Telephone: 4057 9070

CALOUNDRA BRANCH IRENE WHITE caloundra@qja.com.au Telephone: 5439 7387

FOREST LAKE CONTACT GROUP TONY SAHAMA forestlake@qja.com.au Telephone: 0412 453433

GLADSTONE BRANCH JUDITH ROWARTH gladstone@qja.com.au Telephone 4979 4448

GOLD COAST BRANCH JUDITH NOVAK goldcoast@qja.com.au Telephone: 0403 255 828

GYMPIE CONTACT GROUP JOCK YDE gympie@qja.com.au To be confirmed

The QJA’s bylaws distinguish between “branches” and “contact groups”. Branches conduct regular meetings (at least five per year), conduct training, operate signing facilities, have defined revenue streams and a formalised structure. Contact groups meet on an “as required basis” and generally exist to operate signing facilities and to deal with other local issues. For details of what is happening in your local area, including professional development opportunities, please feel free to phone any of the numbers above and your local contact will be happy to assist.

Honorary Lawyers to the Queensland Justices Association

Hertz have agreed to partner the QJA to provide car rental services at competitive rates. As a member of the Association, you can take advantage of these rates on their entire range of vehicles. To obtain the discount phone 1800 082 167 for bookings and quote CDP number 1831324 or alternatively book on line at www. hertz.com.au. Have your QJA membership card ready when you collect the vehicle for verification.

Hertz are also offering #1 Club Gold membership FREE. Apply on-line. Whilst our offer is competitive, it pays to stay in touch with all offerings on the car rental market. At the time of writing, we are in negotiation with a number of other high profile businesses and hope to announce more partnership agreements soon.

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

13

QJA MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM ITEM NO DESCRIPTION

QTY REQ

COST

QJA01*

Membership Pin

QJA03*

QJA Tote Bags

QJA04R

Stamp Rubber Name/JP Type

$27.00

QJA04S

Stamp Self Inking Name/JP Type

$38.50

QJA05R

Stamp Rubber Certified Copy with Name/JP Type

$27.00

QJA05S

Stamp Self Inking Certified Copy with Name /JP Type

$38.50

QJA06*

Replacement Membership Card No Photo

QJA06P*

Replacement Membership Card With Photo

$12.50

QJA06S

Stamp Self Inking – Self Conversion of Seal of Office

$29.00

QJA07*

Car Sticker C.Dec

$0.80

QJA08*

Car Sticker JP(Qual)

$0.80

QJA09*

QJA Coffee Mug

$8.00

QJA10*

QJA Scribble Pads

QJA11W

Magnetic Name Badge (white background + crest)

$16.00

QJA11B

Magnetic Name Badge (blue background + crest)

$16.00

QJA13*

QJA Deluxe Pen

QJA15*

QJA Cap

$15.00

QJA16*

Mens Polo No Pocket (Sizes S,M,L,XL,2XL,3XL,4XL)

$31.00

QJA17*

Mens Polo With Pocket (Limited Stock)

$39.90

QJA18*

Ladies Polo (Sizes 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20)

$31.00

QJA19R

Stamp Rubber Custom Made

$27.00

QJA19S

Stamp Self Inking Custom Made

$38.50

QJA20*

Wall Plaque – Embroidered (Includes Postage)

QJA21

Department of Justice JP (Qual) Handbook

QJA23

Log Book

$6.00

QJA25*

QJA Pen

$1.00

QJA26 *

QJA Tie

$27.00

QJA27*

QJA Lanyard with plastic card holder

QJA28

Stamp Self Ink Certified Copy EPA All pages except last

$38.50

QJA29

Stamp Self Ink Certified Copy EPA last page

$38.50

QJA30*

QJA Handkbook “Guide to JP Practice” (loose leaf)

$15.00

TOTAL COST

$6.50 $4.50

$6.60

$2.00

$6.00

$109.00 $16.00

$4.00

Postage Stickers & Fabric Badge $0.50, Stamps $4.50 each Other Small Items $3.00, Large / heavy items or “The Guide ” $7.50 Two + heavy items $10.00

TOTAL

$

IF ORDERING A STAMP OR NAME BADGE STATE THE NAME & QUALIFICATION & /OR DETAILS TO BE INSCRIBED ON THE STAMP/BADGE.

If ordering a polo shirt please indicate size(s) _______________________________________

DELIVERY DETAILS AND PAYMENT INFORMATION (Payment Must Be Received Before Goods Are Sent) Name : Postal Address : Town / Suburb :

State:

Postcode:

QJA Membership No: Please circle how you will pay - Credit Card - Cheque/Money Order Credit Card payment details - Visa & Mastercard only (AMEX and DINERS are not accepted) Card Number

_ _ _ _ / _ _ _ _ / _ _ __ /_ _ _ _

Expiry Date

__/__

Name on card: Signature: Post to The Registrar, QJA, PO Box 8419, Woolloongabba, Q, 4102 or fax to (07) 3392 2955 or email admin@qja.com.au 14

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

Items marked * are available to QJA members only

VOLUME 7 r NUMBER 1 r autumn 2010 You should read the guides to Heritage products (available in branch, by phoning 13 14 22 or at www.heritageonline.com.au) before you decide whether any of these products are right for you. All loans subject to application and approval, fees, charges and conditions apply. *At the end of the 12 month period, Visa card interest rate reverts back to standard rate, currently 15.75%pa. Available on Visa Classic and Visa Gold, excludes No Frills products. ^Application fee on personal loans normally $105.Information correct as at 25 January 2010 and subject to

Heritage releases co-branded Visa card with QJA

change without notice. Heritage Building Society Limited. ABN 32 087 652 024 AFS Licence No. 240984

QJA is pleased to announce the release of a co-branded Visa card with Heritage Building Society.

The Heritage-QJA Visa card is part of the alliance partnership that offers a range of financial benefits exclusively to QJA members, including a discounted rate of 7.45% for the first year*.

Heritage Queen Street Branch Manager and Alliance Relationship Manager Mr Leigh Hawke said that QJA members banking with Australia’s largest building society additionally raise funds for their association when they take out a Heritage co-branded Visa card.

“QJA members are entitled to great savings on an already competitively priced product, and QJA will The Heritage – QJA co-branded Visa card: part of the earn an income whenever members take out a Heritage alliance partnership that offers a range of financial cobranded Visa card,” he said. benefits to QJA members.

“This initiative is part of our commitment to the alliance that brings mutual benefits to both parties involved.”

As part of the alliance with Heritage, a nil personal loan fee and reduced interest rates on selected home loans also apply to QJA members.

Special offers for QJA Members

Alliance partners also raise funds whenever their members take out a home or personal loan or open a savings account with the Society.

QJA is pleased to announce an alliance partnership with Heritage Building Society. QJA receives much-needed funds to support member development while members receive great discounted rates on Heritage products. This means that you can contribute to member development simply by taking advantage of Heritage’s great offers.

Simply open a transaction account with a direct pay established to qualify for the special offers.

Heritage’s alliance partnership program helps build and sustain local communities throughout south east Queensland and is part of the mutual difference that Heritage offers to its partnering organisations.

As a mutual building society Heritage puts People first in many ways including lower fees and charges, higher deposit rates and a better service as compared to its larger banking competitors.

For further information about the Heritage co-branded Visa card, contact Leigh Hawke, Heritage Queen Street Branch Manager and Alliance Relationship Manager by calling (07) 3229 5227.

QJA MEMBERS RECEIVE: 50% discount on Standard Variable home loan, Fixed Rate home loan, and Line of Credit application fees# 0.15%pa discount on Standard Variable home loan and Living Equity line of credit Nil application fee on personal loans* 7.45%pa one year introductory rate on Visa Classic and Visa Gold cards+

Call Relationship Manager Leigh Hawke Phone 07 3229 5227 Mobile 0417 754 993 hawke.l@hbs.net.au or visit your local branch. www.heritageonline.com.au Remember to quote special offer code ‘QJA’

0.1%pa above the carded rate^ on term deposits No monthly account keeping fees on transaction accounts You should read the guides to Heritage products (available in branch, by phoning 13 14 22 or at www.heritageonline.com.au) before you decide whether any of these products are right for you. All loans subject to application and approval, fees, charges and conditions apply. #Application fee on home loan usually $600. *Application fee on personal loans normally $105. +At the end of the 12 month period interest rate reverts back to standard rate, currently 15.75%pa. Available on Visa Classic and Visa Gold, excludes no frills products. ^The 0.1%pa term deposit offer applies to the current carded rates and excludes the Hot Term Deposit rates. Information correct as at 29 May 2009 and subject to change without notice.

Heritage Building Society Limited. ABN 32 087 652 024 AFS Licence No. 240984 DMS|HBS 906096C

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

15

Want to become a Marriage Celebrant?

Funeral, Naming, Renewal of Vows & Commitment courses also available.

Ever wanted to know how to become a Marriage Celebrant in Australia? Would you like to try something different and provide a valuable service to a range of people? The Attorney-General's Department is responsible for the administration of the Commonwealth Marriage Act 1961. The Marriage Celebrants Program was established in 1973. It enables the appointment of suitably qualified people to perform marriages, providing couples with a meaningful alternative to Registry Office and mainstream church weddings. The Department also authorises Marriage Celebrants who do not belong to a recognised denomination.

Once appointed, Marriage Celebrants can perform ceremonies in any state of Australia. One requirement to be considered as a Marriage Celebrant in Australia, is for a candidate to have successfully completed nationally recognised training for the course unit CHC42608 Certificate IV in Marriage Celebrancy. The Academy of Celebrancy Australia provides the necessary nationally recognised course and Statement of Attainment on completion that is a requirement by the Attorney-General’s department in considering registration of an aspiring Marriage Celebrant. The Academy of Celebrancy Australia believes in ethical, skilful and compassionate Marriage Celebrants.

Alternatively attend the next Brisbane or Gold Coast class for just $1450

This course can be completed by distance education for just $895.00 at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home or in a 3 day class program.

We believe education should be available to all at a fair price, and that assisting extremely high quality celebrant’s from becoming skilled and practicing in our community should not be a costly exercise.

Please note: Completing the required course does not guarantee automatic acceptance as a Marriage Celebrant. There are some other requirements set by the Attorney-General’s Marriage Celebrants Section which are covered in the course

Funeral & Naming courses also available.

Visit www.celebrancy.edu.au for more details.

Complete the mandatory training at home in your own time for just $895.

HOW TO ENROL 1: By completing this enrolment form, and faxing to 1800 079 983 or by mail. or 2: Securely online, at www.celebrancy.edu.au or 3: By calling us.

Phone: 1800 079 801 Fax: 1800 079 983 Address: PO BOX 368 Flinders Lane VIC 8009

16

QJA OFFER ENROLMENT FORM Name:

__________________________ Date of Birth:___________

Address:

_________________________________________________

Suburb:

________________ State: ____ Postcode: ____________

Phone BH: ___________ AH: ___________ Mobile: _____________ Email:

_________________________________ Sex M/F: _______

Course:

CHCMCEL401A by (

Payment Method:

Serving JPs & C.Decs throughout Queensland

Distance or

Classroom )

Visa/Mastercard (preferred for instant enrolment) or

ACADEMY OF

CELEBRANCY AUSTRALIA

www.celebrancy.edu.au