Albion Park Rail Resident Peter Keyes JP Recognised For 50 Years of Service

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has recognised Peter Keyes of Albion Park Rail for 50 years of service to the community as a Justice of the Peace during a special ceremony with NSW Attorney General Mark Speaman SC in NSW Parliament House.

Mr Ward said that Mr Keyes is one of the longest-serving JP’s in the State, who has donated countless hours to helping local people.

“Just about everyone needs a JP at some point in their life - such as when they buy a house or access their superannuation – and it is admirable the way in which Mr Keyes has always been happy to lend a hand.”

Mr Keyes is among more than 250 NSW JPs who are celebrating their Golden Jubilee of service in 2018. 

“During the 50 years, Mr Keyes has been witnessing documents and he has also witnessed profound social changes and advances in technology.

“The way people track down a JP is among the many things that has evolved, with people now more likely to search online than rely on word of mouth,” he said.

Mr Ward said that the NSW online register of Justices of the Peace is being upgraded to make finding a local JP faster and more convenient than ever.

“The revamped system will enable JPs to specify the dates and times they are available and what languages they speak,” he said.

“For Justices of the Peace, this will mean fewer unwanted calls when they’re busy, while people who urgently need a document witnessed or certified will be able to search the register for someone who can help them promptly.

“The new-look register will begin operating in early 2019. The current register only allows users to search for a JP by name, registration number or postcode.

“JPs act as independent and objective witnesses to documents people need for a variety of purposes.

“Their main functions are to witness affidavits and statutory declarations, and they may also certify copies of original documents. JPs provide their services on a voluntary basis and I would once again like to thank Mr Keyes for his ongoing contribution as a local JP,” Mr Ward concluded.

There are over 95,000 JPs covering all corners of our State. For more information on JPs or to find one in your area, please go to: www.jp.nsw.gov.au.