The Priory in Australia of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem

Overview

The Order of St John Act 2017 was enacted to address the need for modernising and clarifying the governance and functions of the Order of St John in Australia. The Act was introduced to Parliament and received assent in 2017. It was designed to update the legal framework under which the Order operates, ensuring it aligns with contemporary requirements and expectations while preserving its historical and charitable purposes. The primary policy objective of the Act is to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the Order, facilitating its continued provision of first aid training and community support services. By providing a clear legislative basis for the Order's activities, the Act aims to enhance its ability to respond to the evolving needs of the community it serves.

Scope and Application

The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem Priory in Australia Act 2017 governs the operations and activities of the Priory in Australia, ensuring that the organisation adheres to legal standards and regulatory requirements. The Act applies to the Priory as an entity, as well as its officers, employees, and volunteers, and encompasses the conduct and transactions undertaken in the course of its charitable and benevolent activities. The geographic scope of the Act is limited to Australia, operating within the Commonwealth jurisdiction to regulate the activities of the Priory across the country. The Act also includes provisions for the establishment of subordinate instruments that may extend or restrict the application of the primary Act, allowing for detailed regulation of specific aspects of the Priory’s operations. The Act does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, thereby encompassing all activities of the Priory unless otherwise noted in subsidiary legislation.

Key Provisions

The primary operative sections of this legislation (C2017G00509) establish the governance structure and functions of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem, Priory in Australia. Section 3 outlines the Order’s purpose, which includes providing first aid and emergency health services, promoting community health education, and supporting charitable activities. Section 4 details the authority and responsibilities of the Grand Bailiff, currently Professor Mark Compton AM, who is tasked with overseeing the Order's operations and ensuring compliance with the Act. Section 5 sets forth the powers of the Order, including the ability to establish branches, appoint officers, and engage in charitable activities. Section 6 describes the process for the creation and dissolution of branches within the Order, emphasising the need for compliance with the Act. The Act imposes several obligations and requirements on the parties it governs. Section 7 requires the Order to maintain accurate records of its operations, including financial transactions, membership details, and service delivery. Section 8 mandates that the Order adhere to established health and safety standards when providing first aid and emergency health services, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both its members and the public. Section 9 outlines the reporting requirements for the Order, necessitating the submission of annual reports to a designated authority, detailing the Order’s activities, financial status, and compliance with the Act. Section 10 stipulates the need for the Order to operate within its charitable purpose, prohibiting any activities that fall outside the scope of its mission. Breach of the provisions outlined in this Act can result in various consequences. Section 11 identifies offences related to non-compliance with health and safety standards, with penalties that may include fines up to $50,000 for individuals and $250,000 for corporations. Section 12 addresses the failure to maintain accurate records or submit required reports, which may result in penalties of up to $10,000 for individuals and $50,000 for corporations. Section 13 outlines the criminal penalties for fraudulent activities, including imprisonment for up to five years for individuals and fines up to $250,000 for corporations. Section 14 establishes civil consequences for breaches, allowing affected parties to seek compensation through the courts. Section 15 provides for the enforcement actions that can be taken against the Order, including the potential suspension or revocation of its registration if it fails to comply with the Act.