The SA Board for Sheriffs is a statuatory body established under section 7 of the Sheriffs' Act and has as its objects the maintenance of the esteem of; the enhancement of the status of, and the improvement of the standard of training of and functions performed by sheriffs. Its general functions are set out in section 16 of the Sheriffs' Act. It also plays an indirect role in the appointment of sheriffs through it's control over the issuing of Fidelity Fund Certificates, without which a person is not entitled to function as a sheriff.