Clause — Magna Carta

and Modern Australia

Magna Carta is one of the most famous documents in the world. First written in 1215, it set out rules limiting the power of the monarchy and safeguarding basic human rights. Over its long history it has been reinterpreted as an icon of justice and liberty. Magna Carta is one of the historic foundations of Australian democracy. Its principles about the rule of law and good government remain relevant today.

Explore Magna Carta through its clauses or view the stories to discover how people have used this medieval document to shape modern Australia.

Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

Drag clause

45

Nos non faciemus Justiciarios, constabularios, vicecomites, vel ballivos, nisi de talibus qui sciant legem Regni et eam bene velint observare.

We will appoint as justices, constables, sheriffs, or other officials, only men that know the law of the realm and are minded to keep it well.

Previous clause Next clause

and Modern Australia

About Magna Carta

Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

Clause 45

Drag clause

Nos non faciemus Justiciarios, constabularios, vicecomites, vel ballivos, nisi de talibus qui sciant legem Regni et eam bene velint observare.

We will appoint as justices, constables, sheriffs, or other officials, only men that know the law of the realm and are minded to keep it well.