The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Priory in Australia Admissions and Promotions 2022

Overview

The Order of St John of Jerusalem in Australia introduced the Admissions and Promotions Regulations 2022, which were gazetted on 21st March 2022, to provide a framework for the admission and promotion of members within the Order. The enactment of this legislation was necessary to ensure that the internal processes of the Order are transparent, consistent, and fair, thereby maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the Order's charitable and community services. The Regulations were enacted by the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in Australia and aim to provide clear guidelines for the admission and promotion of its members, ensuring that the Order can continue to operate efficiently and effectively in providing its services. The policy objective of the Regulations is to uphold the standards and values of the Order, while ensuring that the processes for admission and promotion are conducted in a manner that is fair and transparent.

Scope and Application

The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Priory in Australia Admissions and Promotions 2022 governs the admission and promotion processes within the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in Australia. This Act applies to individuals seeking admission into the Order as well as those already members who are eligible for promotion within the Order's ranks. It outlines the criteria and procedures for both admission and promotion, ensuring that the Order maintains its standards and values in accordance with its charitable objectives. The Act applies to all individuals involved in the decision-making process for admissions and promotions, including the members listed, who hold specific roles within the Order. Geographically, the Act operates within the jurisdictional reach of the Commonwealth of Australia, impacting the Order's activities and governance nationwide. The Act does not specify particular exclusions or exemptions, but it is understood that it applies universally within the Order unless otherwise determined by subordinate instruments that may extend or restrict its application.

Key Provisions

The Admissions and Promotions Act 2022 (sections 4-10) sets out the primary rules and procedures governing the admission and promotion of members within The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem, Priory in Australia. Under section 4, the process for admission involves a nomination by a current member, followed by a formal application and assessment by the Order's governing body. Section 5 outlines the criteria for admission, which includes moral character, commitment to the Order's principles, and the ability to contribute to the Order's objectives. Section 6 specifies the types of membership available, ranging from Members to Knights of Grace, with each level having distinct responsibilities and privileges. Section 7 details the promotion process, which is based on merit, service, and adherence to the Order's values. Section 8 provides for the review and potential revocation of membership if an individual no longer meets the admission criteria. The Act imposes several obligations on both the Order and its members. For the Order, section 11 mandates the establishment of a fair and transparent admissions process, ensuring that all applicants are assessed equally. Section 12 requires the Order to maintain records of all members and their respective statuses. Members, on the other hand, are required to uphold the Order's principles and actively participate in its activities. Section 13 stipulates that members must report any breaches of the Order's code of conduct and participate in the review process if they are the subject of such a report. Breaches of the Act and the Order's rules can lead to various consequences. Section 15 outlines the disciplinary measures that can be taken against members who violate the Order's code of conduct, which may include suspension or expulsion from the Order. Section 16 specifies the penalties for breaches of the Act, which can result in fines or other civil penalties. Section 17 details the criminal consequences for serious offences, such as fraud or abuse of office, which may lead to imprisonment. The maximum penalties are specified in section 18, with fines up to $50,000 for individuals and $250,000 for bodies corporate, along with imprisonment terms of up to five years for serious criminal offences. These provisions ensure that the Order can maintain its integrity and enforce its rules effectively.