Automatic language translation
Our website uses an automatic service to translate our content into different languages. These translations should be used as a guide only. See our Accessibility page for further information.
In communities across NSW, Aboriginal JPs serve with more than duty, they bring cultural connection, empathy, and a trusted presence that reflects and respects the people they support.
Aboriginal JPs are volunteers, just like all JPs, but they bring something extra:
Whether it’s helping Elders with health paperwork, supporting families during housing or legal processes, or standing beside someone in a tough moment, Aboriginal JPs are there with empathy and understanding.
00:00:00.080 --> 00:00:06.879
I think why I wanted to become a JP
was very much that I wanted to give back
00:00:04.480 --> 00:00:12.880
to community. I found that mob at times
was struggling to get access to JPS. So
00:00:09.519 --> 00:00:18.400
for me making a good JP is being,
ethical, being responsive, being there
00:00:15.679 --> 00:00:22.960
for community, understanding and showing
empathy in times when people are faced
00:00:20.800 --> 00:00:27.359
with pressure and needs. What I would
say to someone that's thinking about
00:00:24.240 --> 00:00:31.439
becoming a JP would be just be informed,
know what your
00:00:28.720 --> 00:00:36.200
expectations are. I think it's
a wonderful thing a way of giving back
00:00:32.960 --> 00:00:36.200
to community.
00:00:00.080 --> 00:00:07.759
Being Indigenous and being able to be a
JP makes it so much easier for mob out
00:00:05.440 --> 00:00:12.320
into the community. It just gives them
that quicker supports and services to
00:00:10.080 --> 00:00:17.840
have documents and their ID or whatever
they need certified. It's so much easier
00:00:14.160 --> 00:00:23.039
for them. It's really hard to have to go
traditionally to a place like the police
00:00:20.080 --> 00:00:27.920
or a lawyer or even a pharmacist to ask
them to do the certification of a
00:00:25.680 --> 00:00:32.559
document. Knowing that there's now this
network of First Nations JPs is
00:00:30.320 --> 00:00:37.600
important for us. So that safety and
walking alongside a person who needs the
00:00:34.880 --> 00:00:43.200
support we can do now. Go out and become
a JP. It's free. But it is a very easy
00:00:40.239 --> 00:00:47.760
process and I have like told a lot of
people how quick it is to become a JP.
00:00:46.000 --> 00:00:51.760
You know, like help support mob out
there that do struggle or they're too
00:00:49.680 --> 00:00:56.079
scared to go and get documents certified
to be able to provide back I think is
00:00:54.320 --> 00:00:59.239
good. So, I'd encourage more people to
do it.
For many mob, going through legal processes can feel confusing or overwhelming, especially when trust in systems has been broken in the past. Having the option to sit with an Aboriginal JP can make a real difference.
Aboriginal JPs help create:
If you're signing a statutory declaration, affidavit, or other official documents, choosing an Aboriginal JP can provide that extra layer of comfort and understanding, especially when the paperwork relates to identity, family, housing, or health.
"Knowing that there's now this network of First Nations JPs is important for us." Dr Tiffany McComsey, CEO, Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation.
Aboriginal JPs bring cultural knowledge and lived experience to the role. You can find and book an appointment with an Aboriginal JP here.
Becoming a JP is one way Aboriginal people are stepping up to support their communities and help others navigate important moments in life with cultural understanding, care and respect.
If you’re someone who’s trusted in community, who listens without judgment, and wants to give back, becoming a JP could be a powerful way to make a difference.
You don’t need a legal background just strong values, a willingness to help, and the time to volunteer.
Learn more about how to become a JP.
Support is available to help you through the process.
Last updated: