Following the recent amendment to the Local Court Act 2007 (NSW), New South Wales magistrates will now be referred to as Judges of the Local Court. This new title formally took effect on 28 March 2026.

Why was this change made?

The term magistrate is a historical one, stemming from a time when magistrates were drawn from the ranks of public servants and sat in the Courts of Petty Sessions. Their present role and qualifications majorly differ from this, with all magistrates in New South Wales being required to hold legal qualifications since 1955 but the older title has remained in use long after the role itself has been changed.

The Local Courts are Australia’s busiest court jurisdiction. The Local Court is where most criminal and civil cases first enter the court system, and the number and complexity of the cases they hear each year is growing.  The title change from magistrate to judge has been made to better acknowledge this work and reflect the important role of these judges in our court system.

The new title also brings NSW into line with other courts including the Northern Territory’s Local Court and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

What does this change mean for you?

The title change of magistrates to judges has no impact on the existing powers and functions of the Local Court and its judicial officers. It is a symbolic decision to emphasise the essential role of Local Court judges and the judicial role that was already being performed.