Justice of the Peace and Commissioner for Oaths

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How to become a Commissioner for Oaths

Being a Commissioner for Oaths is an honorary position, meaning you will not be paid.

You are not entitled to charge a fee for your services.

You must be able to demonstrate there is a need for a Commissioner for Oaths where you live or in your work. The position is normally held for 2 or 5 years.

Before you apply

To apply you must be:

an Australian citizen
of good character
registered on the NT electoral roll
able to demonstrate you understand the nature of the role. You can read more about powers, duties and responsibilities in the notes for guidance PDF (228.1 KB).

Documents you will need

You must submit all of the following:

completed Commissioner for Oaths application form PDF (855.8 KB)
2 recent character references from people who have known you for more than 12 months, and have some standing the community
original national police certificate - get a prefilled police check application that has the Commissioner of Oaths appointment details PDF (848.7 KB)
a letter of support from your employer or community organisation outlining the need for a Commissioner for Oaths on company letter head
proof of identification such as driver licence, passport or birth certificate.

How to apply

Step 1. Read the General Information fact sheet and checklist PDF (564.5 KB).

Step 2. Fill in the Commissioner for Oaths application form PDF (855.8 KB).

Step 3. Submit your application form and supporting documents by email or mail.

Email to agd.sao@nt.gov.au.
Mail to:
Statutory appointments officer
Department of the Attorney-General and Justice
GPO Box 3946
Darwin NT 0801.

You should allow 3 or 4 months for your application to be processed.

If you are successful

You must do all of the following:

make yourself available within reason, to people who need your services
not ask for a fee or accept payment for signing documents
contact the statutory appointments officer if you change your address, job or phone number.

Renewing your application

You will be sent a renewal application within 2 months of your appointment expiring.

You will need to prove your suitability and need for a Commissioner for Oaths where you live or work.