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Jury Service — NSW
| Detail | NSW |
|---|---|
| Who's eligible | 18–75 on the electoral roll |
| Pay | $106.30/day (first 10 days), then $247.40/day for employed or $106.30 for self-employed |
| Defer/excuse | Apply online |
What Happens
- You receive a jury summons by mail — usually 6+ weeks before the date
- You attend the courthouse on the date specified
- You may be selected for a jury (or released if not needed)
- If selected, the trial could last 1 day to several weeks (most are 1–5 days)
- You're paid by the court. Your employer must let you go — it's illegal to penalise you for jury duty
Can You Get Out of It?
You can apply to be excused or deferred if you have a genuine reason: medical condition, carer responsibilities, pre-booked travel, financial hardship, or you've served recently. Apply through the courts website as soon as you receive your summons.
Your Employer
Your employer must release you for jury duty and can't fire you or penalise you for serving. Some employers pay your normal wage during jury service (check your award or contract). If not, you receive the court's daily rate: $106.30/day (first 10 days), then $247.40/day for employed or $106.30 for self-employed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you get paid for jury duty in NSW?
$106.30/day (first 10 days), then $247.40/day for employed or $106.30 for self-employed. Some employers pay your normal salary — check your employment contract or award.
Can I refuse jury duty?
Not without a valid reason. Ignoring a summons can result in a fine. But you can apply to defer to a more convenient date or be excused for genuine reasons.
How long does jury duty last?
Most trials last 1–5 days. Some complex cases can last weeks. You'll be given an estimate when you arrive at the courthouse.