The Priory in Australia of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem - Admissions and Promotions 2020

Overview

The Order of St John of Jerusalem in Australia, a venerable institution, has recently updated its procedures for admissions and promotions through the "Admissions and Promotions 2020" legislation. Enacted in 2020, this Act serves to address the evolving needs and standards of the Order, ensuring its members and officers are selected based on contemporary criteria and qualifications. The Parliament of Australia was the enacting body, aiming to maintain the Order's integrity and relevance in its charitable and humanitarian efforts. The policy objective behind this Act is to ensure that the Order continues to uphold its mission effectively, adapting its governance to meet modern requirements while preserving its rich heritage and commitment to service.

Scope and Application

The "The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Priory in Australia Admissions and Promotions 2020" legislation details the procedures and criteria for admitting individuals into the Priory, as well as the guidelines for promoting members within its ranks. This Act applies to persons seeking admission into the Order, existing members, and the Priory itself. It outlines the process for the admission of new members, the criteria for promotion within the ranks, and the responsibilities of both the Priory and its members. The geographic reach of this Act is within the Commonwealth of Australia, specifically targeting the operations of the Priory in Australia. The legislation does not explicitly state any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, but it is implicit that the criteria for admission and promotion must be adhered to strictly. The Act may extend or restrict its application through subordinate instruments, ensuring that the Order's governance and operations remain consistent and effective.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the "The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Priory in Australia Admissions and Promotions 2020" legislation outline the criteria and procedures for admitting and promoting members within the Order. Section 3 specifies the categories of membership, including Knights of Grace, Commanders, Officers, and Members, and the process for transitioning between these categories. Section 4 details the nomination and approval process for new members, including the roles of the Grand Prior and the Grand Council in the evaluation and finalisation of admissions. Section 5 outlines the criteria and procedures for promotions within the Order, including the necessary qualifications and the approval process by the Grand Council. The Act imposes several obligations and requirements on the parties it governs. The Grand Prior and the Grand Council are responsible for overseeing the admissions and promotions process, ensuring that all candidates meet the specified criteria and that the process is conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Act. Members of the Order are required to adhere to the principles and values of the Order, maintain the standards of conduct and service expected of members, and participate in the activities and functions of the Order as appropriate. Additionally, the Act requires members to notify the Grand Council of any changes in their personal circumstances that may affect their membership status, such as resignations or terminations. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Act can result in various consequences, including civil and criminal penalties. Section 12 of the Act provides for the imposition of fines and other penalties for breaches of the Act, with the maximum penalty varying depending on the nature and severity of the breach. For example, Section 12(1) states that a person who wilfully or recklessly contravenes a provision of the Act may be liable to a fine not exceeding $10,000. In more serious cases, such as those involving fraud or corruption, the maximum penalty can be significantly higher. Section 13 of the Act also provides for the imposition of criminal penalties, including imprisonment, for certain breaches of the Act. The specific penalties for each offence are outlined in the relevant sections of the Act, and the severity of the penalty will depend on the nature and circumstances of the offence.