NEW ONLINE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR JPs

The State Government today announced an innovative online program to make it easier for Queenslanders to become Justices of the Peace.

Education and Training Minister, Rod Welford, said people could now use the Internet to undertake the training needed to qualify as a JP.

“This new program provides flexibility and will particularly benefit people living in regional Queensland,” Mr Welford said.

”It enables people with Internet access to complete the Justice of the Peace qualification without leaving the comfort of their homes.

“The course has been developed by the Southbank Institute of TAFE in consultation with the Department of Justice and Attorney General.

“Anyone who wants to become a Justice of the Peace can undertake the online course at their own pace, followed by a two-hour examination, also available online.

“Once a person has completed the online study and examination, they will receive a letter informing them of their result.

“This letter and other supporting forms and documents will then need to be forwarded to the Department of Justice and Attorney-General for processing.”

Mr Welford said online students would be offered support throughout the process.

“If a person has any questions about the material, they can contact the Justices of the Peace Branch, Department of Justice and Attorney-General for help by either email or telephone,” he said.

“The aim is to provide a supportive learning environment which allows students to complete their study when and where it suits them.”

The Justice of the Peace (Qualified) program is also offered in a face-to-face classroom setting at Southbank Institute of Technology.

For more information on the online or face-to-face program contact Southbank Institute of Technology on 13 72 48 or visit www.southbank.edu.au.

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 32371000