Judge Advocate General (Australia)

The Judge Advocate General (Australia) (JAG) is a senior legal officer appointed by the Governor-General of Australia to oversee the administration of military justice within the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The JAG provides independent advice to the Minister for Defence, the Chief of the Defence Force (CDF), and other senior officers on all aspects of military law, including discipline, investigations, and prosecutions.

The role of the Judge Advocate General is established under the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 (Cth). The JAG is responsible for:

• Reviewing findings and sentences of Defence Force magistrates and Defence Force judges.
• Monitoring the operation of the military justice system to ensure fairness and efficiency.
• Providing legal advice on the development and implementation of military law policies and procedures.
• Conducting inquiries into specific incidents or issues within the military justice system.
• Liaising with civilian courts and legal professionals on matters of mutual interest.
• Promoting understanding of military law within the ADF and the broader community.

The JAG is assisted by a team of legal officers, including Deputy Judge Advocates General and other legal staff. The office of the JAG plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the Australian military justice system and ensuring that ADF members are held accountable for their actions in accordance with the law. The JAG reports annually to the Minister for Defence on the operation of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982.