Governance Overview

The Royal Association of Justices of South Australia Inc. (RAJSA) is governed through a structured framework that supports accountability, integrity, and continuity of purpose. Governance arrangements are designed to ensure the Association operates in accordance with its Rules, fulfils its statutory role, and acts in the best interests of its members and the broader justice community.

RAJSA’s governance framework reflects the Association’s long-standing commitment to independence, ethical conduct, and public trust.

 

 

Governance

Governance Framework

The RAJSA operates within a clear hierarchy of authority that guides decision‑making and oversight. This framework ensures that responsibilities are appropriately allocated and that governance remains distinct from day‑to‑day operational activities.

At its highest level, RAJSA is subject to relevant legislation and the authority of the courts. Within this context, the Association is governed by its Rules, which establish RAJSA's purpose, powers, and structure. Board decisions, policies, and formal delegations flow from these Rules and provide clarity around governance responsibilities.

This layered approach supports consistency, transparency, and compliance across the Association.

The Board

The RAJSA Board is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Association. Acting collectively, the Board provides leadership, oversight, and stewardship to ensure RAJSA remains financially sound, well‑governed, and aligned with its objectives.

Key responsibilities of the Board include:

  • Setting strategic priorities and long‑term direction
  • Ensuring compliance with the Rules of the Association and relevant legislation
  • Overseeing risk management and governance integrity
  • Appointing and supporting office holders in accordance with the Rules
  • Safeguarding RAJSA’s reputation and public standing

The Board does not manage operational activities. Its role is to govern, not to administer.

 

Meet the Board
Committees and Delegations

To support effective governance, the Board may establish committees and approve formal delegations. Committees assist the Board by focusing on specific areas of oversight, such as governance, finance, or professional standards, while remaining accountable to the Board.

Delegations are documented and limited in scope. They are designed to ensure decisions are made at the appropriate level, while preserving Board accountability for the overall governance of the Association.

Ethical Conduct and Accountability

The RAJSA places a strong emphasis on ethical behaviour and responsible governance. Board members and office holders are expected to act with integrity, impartiality, and respect for the role of Justices of the Peace and Honorary Magistrates within South Australia’s justice system.

Accountability is maintained through clear role boundaries, transparent decision‑making, and adherence to established policies and governance principles.

Independence and Public Confidence

As a professional association, the RAJSA recognises the importance of independence and public confidence. Governance arrangements are designed to support the Association’s independence while fostering constructive engagement with courts, government, and the community.

Through sound governance, the RAJSA aims to uphold its members' standing and contribute positively to the administration of justice in South Australia.

Code of Conduct

INTEGRITY: Your intentions and your actions.

  • Endeavour to give your best to meet performance standards.
  • Conduct yourself in public in a way that reflects positively on the Royal Association of Justices.
  • Ensure your behaviour reflects members' and the community's expectations.
  • Be fair, equitable, impartial, and consistent.
  • Decisions should be made based on the experience of the membership and your appointment.
  • Take whatever action is necessary to avoid a conflict of interest.
  • Maintain confidentiality.

ACCOUNTABILITY: Your responsibility to the Association, its members and the community.

  • Work to improve your performance in delivering services.
  • Use resources at your disposal in an efficient and responsible way.
  • Show people the importance of the role Justices of the Peace play through training and development.
  • Provide a responsive, effective and efficient service.
  • Use systems and processes without excessive formality.
  • Observe all legislative requirements and reasonable instructions from people in authority.
  • Ensure the privacy of individuals is maintained.
  • Refrain from making any media statement or comment if you are not the delegated Association nominee.

RESPECT: How you treat other people.

  • Endeavour to give your best to meet performance standards.
  • Conduct yourself in public in a way that reflects positively on the Royal Association of Justices.
  • Ensure your behaviour reflects members' and the community's expectations.
  • Be fair, equitable, impartial, and consistent.
  • Decisions should be made based on the experience of the membership and your appointment.
  • Take whatever action is necessary to avoid a conflict of interest.
  • Maintain confidentiality.

ETHICS: Making decisions in difficult situations.

  • Assess situations and identify difficulties.

  • Consider your professional conduct when taking any course of action.

  • Think about the effect your behaviour may have on others involved.

  • Look at the situation from the standpoint of your appointment, the Association, and its members.

  • Check relevant guidelines and policies.

  • Seek advice in situations outside your experience.

  • Consider whether your personal interest’s conflict with the best interests of your appointment, Association membership and the Community.

  • Consider legal issues.

Royal Association of Justices of S.A.

ESTABLISHED 1898

(08) 8297 4044

registrar@rajsa.com.au

22 Chancery Lane, Adelaide S.A 5000

Open Monday to Wednesday, 9:30am - 4pm by appointment