Our history

The Judicial Commission was established in 1986 in response to calls for a formal mechanism to review sentences and sentencing practice, and to give effect to judicial accountability.

Timeline

18 Nov 1986 The Judicial Officers Bill 1986 received assent
19 Dec 1986 The Judicial Officers Act 1986 commenced
23 Jan 1987 The first meeting of the Judicial Commission was held
1 May 1987 The Judicial Officers (Amendment) Act 1987 commenced upon assent. The amending legislation established the Judicial Commission as a statutory corporation independent of Executive Government
1 Oct 1987 The Judicial Commission began its work in the areas of judicial education and the provision of sentencing information

From controversy to credibility: 20 years of the Judicial Commission of New South Wales

In October 2007, the Judicial Commission celebrated 20 years of achievement in promoting excellence in judicial performance. To commemorate the Judicial Commission’s 20th anniversary, the Commission published a booklet setting out a brief history of the Commission: see From controversy to credibility: 20 years of the Judicial Commission of New South Wales (PDF 6.5MB). Interviews with key figures involved in the Judicial Commission’s controversial establishment shed light on how the Commission has gained national and international credibility as an accountability body and a leading provider of continuing judicial education and sentencing information.

Enduring values and evolving services: 30 years of the Judicial Commission

In October 2017, the Judicial Commission acknowledged 30 years of operations. To commemorate the Judicial Commission’s 30th anniversary, the Commission published an article in the Judicial Officers’ Bulletin: see Enduring values and evolving services: 30 years of the Judicial Commission (PDF 3.9 MB). The article identifies the core values of the Commission’s programs, how services have evolved over three decades, and our strategic direction for the next decade.