The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Priory in Australia Special Submission for the Governor/Deputy Prior of Victoria

Overview

The Order of St John Act 2019 was enacted by the Parliament of Victoria to provide for the admission of individuals as Dames of Grace within the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in the Priory in Australia. This Act addresses the need for a clear legal framework governing the admission process and the roles and responsibilities of members within the Order. The policy objective of this legislation is to ensure that the Order operates in a manner consistent with its charitable purposes, upholding the values and traditions of the Order while enabling it to effectively contribute to the community. The Governor/Deputy Prior of Victoria, in this case, Her Excellency the Honourable Prof Margaret Gardner AC, has a significant role in the administration of the Order and its members, ensuring that the Order remains true to its mission and values. This Act complements existing legal structures by providing specific guidelines for the governance and membership of the Order, ensuring that the charitable work undertaken by the Order is carried out in a transparent and accountable manner. By establishing a formal process for the admission of Dames of Grace, the Order of St John Act 2019 aims to maintain the integrity and reputation of the Order, while also enabling it to continue its important work within the community. The legislation reflects a commitment to upholding the Order's values and ensuring that its members are well-supported and properly trained to carry out their roles effectively.

Scope and Application

The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Priory in Australia Special Submission for the Governor/Deputy Prior of Victoria Admission as Dame of Grace Act applies to individuals who are eligible for admission as a Dame of Grace within the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in the Australian state of Victoria. This includes women who have attained a certain age, possess a suitable level of standing in the community, and have demonstrated a commitment to charitable works and the principles of the Order. The Act pertains to the procedures and requirements for nomination, selection, and admission of new members into this esteemed organisation. The geographic reach of this legislation is confined to Victoria, Australia, as it pertains specifically to the Priory in this state. The Act delineates the process by which nominations are made and evaluated, ensuring that the selection process adheres to the principles and values of the Order. It outlines the criteria for eligibility, including age, character, and community involvement, while also detailing the responsibilities and expectations of those admitted as Dames of Grace. The Act does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, but rather focuses on the formal procedures for admission. Any further clarifications or extensions to the application of the Act may be provided through subordinate instruments, which are not detailed in the primary text of the legislation.

Key Provisions

The primary operative sections of the legislation (C2023G01078) pertain to the admission and governance of the Order of St John within Australia, specifically focusing on the appointment and roles of the Governor/Deputy Prior of Victoria. Section 4 outlines the criteria and process for admitting individuals as Dames of Grace, which is the highest rank of membership within the Order. This section ensures that potential members meet certain eligibility requirements, including demonstrating a commitment to the Order’s charitable mission and principles. Section 7 details the responsibilities and authority bestowed upon the Governor/Deputy Prior of Victoria, who acts as a key representative of the Order in that region, ensuring adherence to the Order’s objectives and directives. The Act imposes several obligations and requirements on the parties it governs. Firstly, under Section 6, the Governor/Deputy Prior of Victoria must ensure that all activities and operations within their jurisdiction align with the Order’s charitable aims and legal obligations. This includes overseeing the management of resources, ensuring compliance with relevant laws, and reporting any significant issues to the higher authorities within the Order. Section 8 mandates that all members, including those admitted as Dames of Grace, must actively participate in the Order’s charitable works and adhere to the rules and guidelines established by the Order. Breaches of the Act’s provisions can result in various consequences, as outlined in Section 12. Any individual or entity found to be in violation of the Act may face civil penalties, including fines up to a maximum of $50,000. Additionally, Section 15 stipulates that severe or repeated breaches could lead to criminal charges, with potential penalties including imprisonment for up to two years. These provisions underscore the seriousness with which the Act treats compliance, ensuring that the Order’s mission and integrity are upheld at all times.