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National Volunteer Week Recognition

Volunteers – Every One Counts 

National Volunteer Week (14 – 20 May 2012) provides an opportunity for all of us to recognise the efforts of all people who volunteer in roles on behalf of communities across Australia.

The National Survey of Volunteering Issues 2011 notes that most volunteers do so because of the difference they make to the community and the sense of purpose that volunteering gives them.  

Honorary Justice volunteers bring a wealth of personal qualities, experience, knowledge and skill to their voluntary effort in supporting the criminal justice system.

Justices of the Peace provide an exceptional service to the community by witnessing and attesting to documentation under the Evidence (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1958 through regular rostered service at document signing stations, attending local council venues, libraries, workplaces and providing services from their home to all members of the community.

Bail justices respond to after-hours calls from Victoria Police and the Department of Human Services for bail hearings and applications for interim accommodation orders.  These bail justices commit themselves to providing a vital service to the community in often confronting and difficult circumstances.  Bail justices are instrumental in providing an accused person with access to justice when courts are not sitting, and children who are in need of protective custody with access to that safety.

‘Volunteers – Every One Counts’ is the spirit of volunteering in 2012 and honorary justices across Victoria embody this message each day and night as they offer their services to the community.

The Department of Justice and Honorary Justice Office greatly appreciate the efforts of all honorary justices to their volunteer roles and we thank you for your invaluable service to the Victorian community.