Authorised Witnesses

Temporary Provisions for Certifications of Documents in Response to COVID-19

The South Australian State Government has expanded the list of people who may witness statutory declarations under the COVID-19 Emergency Response (Section 16) Regulations 2020.

The list of those who may take statutory declarations can be found here.

Justice of the Peace

A Justice of the Peace is a person currently appointed as a Justice of the Peace under the Justices of the Peace Act 2005 (SA) or a corresponding law of another State.

Find a Justice of the Peace in your area here or email the Attorney-General’s Department.

Proclaimed Police Officers

Proclaimed police officers are members of the police force (a member of the police force appointed under Part 5 of the Oaths Act 1936) and under the Police Act 1998 (SA), or the police force of another State under corresponding legislation, or the Australian Federal Police under the Australian Federal Police Act 1979 (Cth).

Proclaimed police officers can be found at most South Australian police stations. When seeking their assistance ask them to describe themselves as “a Proclaimed Police Officer” when certifying documents for you.

It is advisable to call the police station before attending to ensure there is a Proclaimed Police Officer available when you attend. Find your local police station here.

Legal Practitioner

A Legal Practitioner is a person currently entitled to practise the profession of law under the Legal Practitioners Act 1981 (SA) or a corresponding law of another State.

Visit the Law Society of South Australia website here.

Notary Public

A Notary Public is a Legal Practitioner appointed to the role of Notary Public by the Supreme Court of South Australia or any other court in Australia. Find a Notary Public here.